Summary
Some U.S. states, including New York, are reconsidering their goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions because of rising energy costs and efforts to keep energy affordable for families. Governors like New York’s Kathy Hochul want to delay these targets, while environmental groups worry this will slow down progress on climate change.
Key Facts
- In 2019, New York set a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030.
- Governor Kathy Hochul wants to delay this goal to avoid raising energy prices for families.
- Rising electricity prices, up 27% from 2019 to 2024, partly due to higher natural gas costs and increased demand, are a concern.
- Some states like Rhode Island and Connecticut have also lowered or delayed their clean energy targets.
- Democratic leaders are trying to balance climate goals with the need to keep energy affordable.
- The “cap-and-invest” system allows polluters to buy permits to emit greenhouse gases, with funds going toward clean energy projects.
- President Donald Trump’s administration reduced clean energy grants and opposed offshore wind farms, which some say increased costs for states trying to meet climate goals.
- States like Massachusetts and New Jersey are considering lowering extra charges on utility bills that fund energy efficiency programs.
