The steep rate increases imposed by Con Edison in New York have left residents displeased and looking for someone to blame. Two individuals stand out: former Governor Andrew Cuomo and current Governor Kathy Hochul. Both are seen as woefully ignorant when it comes to energy policies, and their decisions are jeopardizing the state’s economy and the well-being of its citizens, particularly those who cannot afford the added expenses.
In order to meet the daily electricity demands of New York, which range from Park Avenue elevators to air conditioners in Buffalo, a sufficient supply of electricity is crucial. However, with a limited supply and increasing demand, prices inevitably rise, as any teenager wanting to attend a Taylor Swift concert can understand. Unfortunately, Governor Cuomo failed to grasp this concept.
Cuomo’s first target was the coal plants in New York, which used to contribute 16% of the state’s electricity but now generate none. His goal was to achieve 100% “zero-emission electricity” by 2040. However, the effectiveness of these policies in improving air quality or overall happiness is debatable, especially considering that Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry, failed in his climate negotiations with China, the world’s largest polluter. The only definite outcome has been higher costs.
Nuclear power was Cuomo’s next focus, despite France relying on it for 70% of its electricity. Previously, safe and reliable nuclear power accounted for 33% of New York’s electricity generation, but Cuomo’s ambitions in the green movement led to the closure of the Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant in 2021. This resulted in a loss of 2,000 megawatts of electricity generation, nearly one quarter of New York City’s needs. Once again, the result was increased prices.
Liberal politicians in New York claim to be investing in renewable energy sources, with President Biden spending billions to promote wind and solar as a solution. However, the reality is that wind and solar power do not effectively meet energy demands. When confronted with the loss of reliable nuclear and coal power, green politicians argue that the state has over 2,000 megawatts of “capacity.” However, at present, wind energy in New York generates just over 300 megawatts, and solar power only produces 342 megawatts.
Cuomo’s pursuit of a “green” New York has left the state reliant on weather for its electric grid. However, wind is inconsistent, and the sun sets every day, creating a shortage of power. Hochul’s push to electrify everything, including bans on gas stoves and mandates for electric vehicles, will only exacerbate this issue. New Yorkers may face higher prices or even worse consequences as a result.
Texas serves as a warning of what can happen when an untested green agenda fails. In 2021, ice storms shut down Texas’ wind capacity, leading to the deaths of 700 people. Despite initially celebrating their green energy push, Texas politicians were left with nameless, powerless residents paying the ultimate price. Given New York’s colder climate, the consequences here could be even more severe if the green push continues.
The rate hikes imposed by Con Edison are not unexpected, as green energy simply cannot meet the state’s needs. The only way forward is to embrace a combination of fossil fuels and nuclear power. However, unless New Yorkers stop voting for energy-ignorant politicians who champion a failed green agenda, higher prices and worse outcomes will be the future of the Empire State.
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