NEW YORK - Energy use is one of the biggest challenges facing New York State in the 21^st century. Power generation has a tremendous impact on our environment, economy and quality of life. New York's economic development is hampered by an expensive, inefficient and outdated transmission system. Moreover, our heavy reliance on fossil fuels hampers our efforts to fight climate change.

Click above to download a copy of our report.To grapple with these challenges and chart a course for a carbon-neutral future, the New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund has released "Powering the Future: Charting a Course for a Carbon-Neutral New York." The report focuses on energy efficiency and carbon-neutral technologies, articulating a strategy to create a cleaner electricity system.

Released on the same day as New York State's 2009 Energy Plan, NYLCVEF's report also calls on the state to improve upon that plan in specific ways. Among the suggestions in NYLCVEF's report are:

• Set specific goals for statewide solar and wind energy generation.
• Establish clearer funding and programmatic strategies to implement the governor's "45 by 15" initiative.
• Reform the Public Service Commission to allow it to better implement a broad energy plan, and reform the Renewable Portfolio Standard program to ensure all regions of the state benefit from clean energy funds.

"We applaud Governor Paterson and the State Energy Planning Board for their efforts on the 2009 State Energy Plan," said Marcia Bystryn, president of the NYLCV Education Fund. "It is our hope that our recommendations will help shape the plan's implementation and enhancement, and help set the stage for a cleaner energy future for New York State."

To download a copy of "Powering the Future," click here or call Dan Hendrick at (212) 361-6350 ext. 206.

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The New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund (NYLCVEF) engages and educates New Yorkers on environmental issues and the environmental decision-making processes at the local, regional, state and federal government levels. NYLCVEF fosters open, nonpartisan discussion on environmental policy and empowers New Yorkers to be effective advocates on behalf of the environment.