New York Recognizes & Valorizes Hydropower as Renewable Energy Source

In a landmark choice in the present day, the New York Division of Public Service voted to increase the state’s Clear Vitality Customary to be able to speed up the decarbonization of the electrical energy grid. In doing so, New York authorities acknowledge that every one varieties of hydropower, together with hydropower from Québec, are clear and renewable sources of vitality which are capable of assist the state meet its local weather change objectives.

In the present day’s choice creates a further class entitled “Tier 4” below the Clear Vitality Customary. Below the brand new Tier 4, present hydropower is eligible for renewable vitality credit when it’s delivered instantly into New York Metropolis.

New York has set among the most bold decarbonization targets in the USA: powering the state with 70% renewable vitality by 2030, and making certain 100% renewable vitality on the grid by 2040. Nonetheless, about 70% of Downstate New York’s electrical energy wants are at the moment met by burning fossil fuels. After the closure of the Indian Level nuclear energy plant in 2021, 86% of Downstate electrical energy wants can be met by burning fossil fuels.

At present, due to transmission constraints, Hydro-Québec can solely ship vitality into Upstate New York, which already has a excessive renewable vitality provide. With in the present day’s choice, the intensive environmental and reliability advantages of a brand new transmission interconnection between Québec’s hydropower system and New York Metropolis shall be made doable.