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In recent news, the state of New York has taken a strong stance on clean energy and nuclear power. They have formally approved a Clean Energy Standard that clearly recognizes the zero-carbon contribution of nuclear power plants in the generation of electricity. They have acknowledged that nuclear will go a long way toward replacing fossil fuel powered energy with clean electricity.

Well-known climate scientist, James Hansen of Columbia University, is just one of the many endorsers of New York’s Public Service Commission in this important victory to protect the nuclear power plants of New York. He said “Doing the right thing is sometimes controversial, and that was the case here.” Nuclear power still has a conflicted public standing, as concerns over waste management and safety remain top of mind. But climate change remains a pressing issue, the zero-carbon contribution of nuclear power is becoming more worthy of attention. Hansen stated that “Other states around the nation should take notice of what real climate action looks like.”

The new standard will require 50 percent of New York’s electricity to come from renewable energy sources by 2030. It is considered to be the most comprehensive and ambitious clean energy mandate in the history of New York according to Governor Andrew Cuomo. It explicitly recognizes the importance of carbon-free energy provided by New York’s upstate nuclear power plants. The Clean Energy Standard also recognizes the use of these plants as critical in meeting its climate change targets.

Economic challenges and competition from low-cost gas and federally subsidized wind power make for difficulties in ensuring the continued operation of the nuclear power plants recognized. In response to this, the standard requires state investor-owned utilities and other energy suppliers to purchase Zero-Emission Credits to pay for what is described as the “intrinsic value of carbon-free emissions from nuclear power plants.” This allows for the nuclear plants to remain in operation during the transition period. The standard also requires energy suppliers to obtain Renewable Energy Credits, which will be paid to developers to help finance development.

The Clean Energy Standard also provides guidance for the development of a “New York certified clean electric product” which gives consumers the ability to purchase 100 percent clean power if they so wish. It also supports the expansion of energy efficiency measures, provides a blueprint for offshore wind energy, and makes commitments toward pursuing development and investments in storage, transmission and other technologies.

This approval is important in the national recognition of the part nuclear power has to play in a cleaner energy future, but even the Clean Energy Standard is said to discriminate against nuclear power by not including more long-term clean-energy mandates. Renewable energy sources are obviously the favorite in legislation such as this. Mike Shellenberger, head of the Environmental Progress environmental research and policy organization, said “If New York included nuclear in an expanded goal, it could come much closer to 100 percent clean power in 2030 and beyond.” There is clearly more work to be done.

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