Stronger action must be taken if the New York State (NYS) is to meet its renewable energy goals, according to an audit released by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. The audit acknowledged the considerable steps already taken by the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the NYS Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) for the state’s transition to renewable energy, but found inadequate planning, monitoring and assessment of risks and challenges in efforts to meet targets under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). The CLCPA has fixed a goal of 70% of renewably sourced electricity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2040 for the NYS. “New York is moving in the right direction to transition to renewable energy, but we found better planning, monitoring of progress and timely assessment of risks by [the] PSC is needed to achieve our ambitious clean energy goals,” DiNapoli said. “New York has been a leader in its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the threats caused by climate change, and identifying existing and emerging challenges will improve the likelihood that we succeed.” DiNapoli’s audit recommended the PSC begin a comprehensive review of the CLCPA, including an assessment of progress towards the goals and annual funding commitments and expenditures. It also said the PSC should address existing and emerging risks on a continual basis to minimise the impact on the state’s ability to meet climate goals, assess expected renewable energy generation and timing of projects not yet operable, and perform a detailed analysis of cost estimates –periodically reporting results to the public.
