Statement from ACE NY on the US EPA's Announced Carbon Emission Regulation under the Clean Air Act

ALBANY, NY (06/02/2014)(readMedia)-- In response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Power Plan proposal to cut carbon pollution from existing power plants, Anne Reynolds, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) provides the following statements:

"Today, the U.S. EPA took bold action by proposing a federal guideline under the Clean Air Act to limit carbon emissions from the power sector, and requiring each state to develop a compliance plan. ACE NY applauds this important move in support of reducing the pollution that causes climate change."

"This directive offers a unique opportunity for New York to modernize and upgrade its electricity infrastructure by using renewable energy technologies and other types of advanced clean energy to help meet the new requirements. New York's compliance with the new EPA regulations should serve as a vehicle for creating a higher performing and cleaner electric power system for all."

"New York has already set an example for the nation through participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. And clean technologies like wind, solar and hydropower are already working when it comes to delivering emissions reductions and economic benefits."

A 2013 performance evaluation of New York's Renewable Portfolio Standard program found that renewable energy projects participating in the Main Tier will result in approximately $2.7 billion dollars of direct investment in the state over their projected lifespan. The corresponding expected CO? emissions reductions total 50 million tons, in addition to 15 million ton reductions each for both NO? and SO?.

"There is a vast amount of cost-effective clean energy potential in New York. We urge the state's leaders to view this as an exciting opportunity to progress toward that clean energy future, and we commend the EPA for taking this important step forward."

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About the Alliance for Clean Energy New York:

The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) is a broad coalition dedicated to promoting clean energy, energy efficiency, a healthy environment, and a strong economy for the Empire State, and is New York's premier advocate for the rapid adoption of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org