Volts What's going on with public power in New York?
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Mar 26, 2025 In this discussion, Patrick Robbins from Public Power NY and Ioana Bozuwa of the Climate and Community Institute dive into New York's transformative Build Public Renewables Act. They share insights on how this landmark legislation empowers public utilities to spearhead large-scale renewable energy projects. The conversation explores the grassroots activism that made it possible, the political hurdles ahead, and the vital role of public ownership in making renewable energy accessible and resilient. Expect a candid examination of community-driven energy solutions!
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Challenging Senator Parker
- The Democratic Senate sponsor initially refused to bring the BPRA to a vote, wanting control over the campaign.
- DSA challenged him in a primary, ultimately pressuring him to bring the bill to a vote.
BPRA Key Features
- The BPRA mandates NYPA to build renewables to meet state climate goals and includes strong labor provisions.
- It also establishes the REACH program, crediting low-income ratepayers with revenue from projects.
NYPA's Financial Strength
- NYPA's public financing capabilities and bond rating allow it to finance renewable projects efficiently.
- Studies show NYPA could replace all fossil fuel assets without harming its credit rating.