A key component of our plan to address climate change and build a healthy and sustainable future for New York State will be encouraging clean energy and reducing our energy usage. In the spring of 2008, Gov. David Paterson launched a statewide energy planning process. This effort is tasked with developing a comprehensive energy plan that will guide our energy policy for the coming decades. The governor reaffirmed his commitment to a clean energy future by committing the state to an ambitious new energy plan in his first State of the State address.

NYLCVEF strongly believes that a package of energy-efficiency measures and investments in renewable-energy technologies is essential to both combat climate change and foster the sort of energy independence that will protect our state's economy from the price fluctuations of fossil fuels. By achieving these goals we can reduce the ever-increasing cost of energy to consumers and businesses, clean the environment and build a 21st century "green-tech" economy.

Direct incentives for renewables: We will advocate for a package of legislation that includes:

• Increased funding for the Renewable Portfolio Standard.
• Pass a statewide solar tax credit.
• Develop and implement new financing mechanisms such as renewable
• energy credits.
• Ensure that proceeds from Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative auctions are devoted entirely to the achievement of a clearly articulated renewable energy plan.
• Create a pilot "solar empowerment zone" district program to target incentives and allow businesses to pool resources in order to address interconnection issues.

Energy efficiency package:

• Fully fund Gov. Paterson's proposed ‘45 by 15' initiative.
• Pass legislation requiring state agencies to reach clearly articulated energy-reduction goals.
• Require all state agencies to report on and reduce yearly vehicle miles traveled.
• Allow NYSERDA to provide funding and incentives for projects that are required by law.
• Maximize the role of the regulated utilities in promoting energy efficiency.

Develop a clear plan to access federal energy efficiency money: It is estimated that an expected federal stimulus bill could make upwards of $1 billion available to the state for use on energy efficiency projects. It is critically important that the Paterson administration rapidly develop a plan to use this funding. We encourage the governor to appoint an executive-level official who is solely responsible for coordinating the Administration's energy efficiency efforts.

Tire efficiency: Pass the Tire Efficiency Standard Program, which would require DEC to create a statewide tire efficiency program and establish clear energy efficiency standards for new and replacement tires.

Indoor and outdoor lighting efficiency: Pass legislation that would improve the efficiency of indoor and outdoor lighting. Improving the efficiency of lighting by curtailing the use of highly inefficient incandescent light bulbs could have a significant impact on energy consumption throughout the state. NYLCVEF will support efforts to reduce the use of these antiquated lighting sources and encourage both individuals and government to use more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient lighting sources.

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