New York State’s climate plan, which includes phasing out the state’s reliance on natural gas, continues to face criticism.
Congressman Nick Langworthy represents New York’s 23rd congressional district which includes a portion of Western New York and the Southern Tier.
Langworthy recently introduced the Energy Choice Act to block New York and other states that are phasing out gas.
On Thursday, Langworthy met with local utility and energy producers to call for the production of natural gas to be ramped up. He cited a report from the New York State Independent System Operator that he says makes it clear that if policies don’t change the electric grid stands to fail.
“If these policies don’t change, the electric grid stands to fail in populated areas like Western New York and in New York City, potentially leaving thousands of people without heat during winter storms,” said Langworthy. “Natural gas is the difference between life and death in these situations.”
7 News spoke with Liz Moran from Earthjustice who says Hochul’s plan is good for the climate and people need to get on board quickly to make it work.