News Summary
Lawmakers and environmentalists are urging New York officials to deny a crucial air permit for the Competitive Power Ventures Valley Energy Center, a natural gas power plant. This decision will test Governor Kathy Hochul’s commitment to climate laws aimed at reducing emissions. Recent analyses show New York at risk of not meeting its greenhouse gas reduction targets by 2030. The DEC’s review process has sparked significant public opposition, raising questions about the future of environmental policies in the state.
New York – Lawmakers and environmentalists are urging state officials to deny a vital permit for the Competitive Power Ventures (CPV) Valley Energy Center, a natural gas-fired power plant located in Orange County. This upcoming decision will serve as a significant test of Governor Kathy Hochul’s commitment to the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which mandates emissions reductions in response to climate change.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is currently reviewing the application for Title V and IV air quality permits, a process that has drawn considerable scrutiny. Democratic Senator James Skoufis has stressed that the state’s Climate Law prohibits the approval of new projects that do not align with the required emissions reductions.
CPV’s power plant has been operating for the past seven years without a finalized air permit. The DEC initially denied the facility’s air permit in 2018, prior to the enactment of the Climate Law. Recent analyses indicate that New York is at risk of not achieving its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by the year 2030, which is an obligation set forth by the Climate Act.
Environmental advocates, including the director of Sane Energy Project, have voiced their concerns that the power plant negatively impacts local communities and perpetuates reliance on a fossil fuel economy. Advocates are particularly worried by Governor Hochul’s recent decisions that seem inconsistent with the Climate Law, such as a $4 billion upgrade for National Grid and discussions on potentially reviving natural gas pipeline projects.
In response to queries about the state’s energy policy, a spokesperson for Governor Hochul affirmed the administration’s commitment to an energy policy that emphasizes renewable sources while also ensuring reliable and affordable energy access.
The DEC has already denied two similar air quality permits since the enactment of the Climate Law. This precedent strengthens the argument for denying CPV’s permit to ensure consistent application of the state’s environmental standards. A Supreme Court ruling from 2019 allows the power plant to continue operating while its permit application is under review.
During a recent 60-day public comment period concerning CPV’s application, over 1,000 comments were submitted, with the vast majority opposing the plant. Advocates contend that CPV has not proposed significant operational adjustments or disclosed additional emission sources to the DEC during this review process.
Despite the controversies, the DEC has defended its permit review process, emphasizing adherence to federal and state standards, including compliance with the Climate Act. In a bid to contribute positively to local emissions efforts, CPV has committed to creating a $1 million grant fund aimed at supporting emission reduction initiatives over a span of five years. No responses have been received from CPV regarding the ongoing permit review, raising further questions about the plant’s future.
As the DEC evaluates the permits, the outcome will not only affect the Competitive Power Ventures Valley Energy Center but also serve as a crucial indicator of New York’s dedication to progressing towards its climate goals. The community and state officials alike are watching closely for a decision that could shape the future of environmental policy in New York.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
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