Directs the public service commission to conduct a full cost benefit analysis of the technical and economic feasibility of renewable energy systems in the state of New York and to compare such directly with other methods of electricity generation; makes certain changes relating to greenhouse gas emissions limits.
Establishes an economy-wide cap and invest program to support greenhouse gas emissions reductions in the state by setting a maximum allowable amount of greenhouse gas emissions by covered entities and regulating the sale or auction of greenhouse gas emissions allowances to covered entities.
Directs the public service commission to conduct a full cost benefit analysis of the technical and economic feasibility of renewable energy systems in the state of New York and to compare such directly with other methods of electricity generation; makes certain changes relating to greenhouse gas emissions limits.
Establishes environmental standards for public authorities; establishes targets and timetables to achieve reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, energy and water for certain buildings, facilities, vehicles and vehicle fleets owned or leased by certain public authorities.
This bill amends New York's definition of eligible vehicles for climate smart community projects. It specifies that eligible vehicles must have "up to four wheels" (excluding larger vehicles like trucks or buses). The bill also sets rebate amounts between $2,500 and $5,500 per vehicle, based on electric range and estimated greenhouse gas reductions compared to gas vehicles. This directly affects residents and businesses purchasing qualifying smaller electric vehicles for climate initiatives under state programs.
Requires that climate change and sustainability education be taught in elementary and high schools to educate pupils about how human activities cause climate change, the effects of climate change, the dangers associated with climate change and preventative measures that can be taken to alleviate the impacts of climate change.
Establishes a chief sustainability officer to coordinate efforts across state agencies and other state government entities to address climate change mitigation and climate sustainability efforts.
Establishes a climate change education grant program to award grants to eligible applicants to support climate change education grant programs for young people or to provide optional teacher training or professional development programs relevant to the advance of climate change literacy in young people; establishes the New York state climate change education fund.
Requires that public schools provide instruction on climate change, including but not limited to identifying the causes and impacts of climate change on individuals, environments and communities, and learning to evaluate solutions.
This bill creates a state task force to study the feasibility of growing crops for cellulosic ethanol production, a renewable fuel that substantially reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional ethanol. The task force, to be formed by the Agriculture Commissioner with members from environmental and conservation agencies, must identify optimal crops and locations within the state and submit findings and recommendations within one year. The bill expires two years after enactment, making it a temporary study initiative focused on advancing renewable energy research without implementing new regulations.
