Former New York Governor George Pataki has criticized the state’s ambitious renewable energy law, calling it “incredibly short-sighted and ignorant.” The law, which was passed in 2019, requires that 70% of the state’s electricity come from renewable sources by 2030 and aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. Pataki, who championed small nuclear plants as a viable alternative, believes that the law is unattainable and full of hot air.
Speaking on the “Cats Roundtable” show on 770 WABC, Pataki pointed out the challenges of relying solely on wind and solar energy. “If the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine, what are you going to do?” he asked. He also highlighted the projected gap between energy use and generation in New York State by 2040, which is almost 50%. Pataki believes that the state needs to start planning for new energy sources now, and small nuclear reactors could be a viable option.
The 2019 Climate Act, approved by former Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Democratic-run state Legislature, also calls for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 and 85% by 2050 from 1990 levels. However, many energy experts and business leaders have expressed doubts about the feasibility of these mandates.
Pataki believes that the law is “incredibly short-sighted and ignorant” and that the state will need to continue relying on fossil fuels to meet its energy needs. He also emphasized the need for planning and implementing new energy sources to fill the projected gap in energy generation.
In conclusion, Pataki believes that the 2019 Climate Act is unattainable and that the state needs to consider alternative energy sources, such as small nuclear reactors, to meet its energy needs. The law’s mandates, while ambitious, may not be feasible in the long run, and the state needs to plan accordingly.