Issues: Renewable Energy

Senate Unveils Alternative Energy Package

Queens, NY – Senator Michael Gianaris continues his efforts to increase energy affordability for consumers while enhancing energy efficiency and protecting the environment in New York State. On Wednesday, May 25, 2011, he, along with various Senate colleagues including fellow Queens Senator Jose Perlata unveiled a package of alternative energy bills aimed at making energy affordable.

ONEONTA, 12/20/10 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I–Oneonta) is again calling on the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to conduct a full, open review of proposed outdoor wood boiler (OWB) regulations.

“Energy costs are rising on a daily basis and upstate homeowners and farmers struggling to make ends meet are constantly searching for economical and environmentally sound methods to keep expenses in check,” said Senator Seward.  “I appreciate the Department of Environmental Conservation’s efforts in revising outdoor wood boiler regulations but local concerns have not been adequately addressed.”

The American Institute of Architects New York State (AIANYS) has named Senator Suzi Oppenheimer as its “2010 Legislator of the Year”. The award recognizes outstanding contributions in advancing the legislative priorities of AIANYS. Senator Oppenheimer is receiving the award for her sponsorship of the Smart Growth Initiative, which was recently signed into law.

On August 30, 2010, Governor David Paterson signed into law the State Smart Growth and Infrastructure Policy Act. This groundbreaking new law will fundamentally change the way that state agencies fund public infrastructure projects by requiring the use of smart growth principles to combat sprawl and promote environmentally sound development. Passage of the law was a top legislative priority of environmental groups throughout the state.

Governor signs bill to combat sprawl and promote environmentally sound development

Senator Suzi Oppenheimer (D-Mamaroneck) is pleased to announce that her bill, the State Smart Growth and Infrastructure Policy Act (S.5560B/A.8011B) was signed into law on August 30, 2010.  The new law establishes state smart growth infrastructure criteria and requires state agencies to review and consider these guidelines when allocating funds for public infrastructure projects.