NY’s Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act: NY is legally bound to get off fossil fuels by 2050
In 2019, New York passed one of the most ambitious climate laws in the US: the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Under CLCPA, New York must be off fossil fuels, the drivers of climate change, by 2050.
Below, we share the milestones New York is legally bound to meet. We also share the 2024 status on how we’re doing so far. The short answer: it’s bad. New York Governor, Kathy Hochul, is consistently ignoring the law and talking about unraveling it. In September, she’s even holding a summit on the Law without including environmental justice leaders.
While reports point to challenges like supply chain disruptions and financial constraints, it's clear from the Governor's rejection of NYHeat and most other 2024 climate efforts that leaders won’t find a way if the will isn't there.
Milestones
By 2025, solar capacity must increase by 250%. Status: Behind. While the state has expanded solar capacity, it’s not clear if it will meet the 250% target.
By 2030, 70% of electricity must come from renewable sources. Status: Very Behind. A big portion of the state’s electricity still comes from fossil fuels. At this rate, the state will not meet the 2030 goal unless there’s a dramatic increase in renewable energy development.
By 2035, we must build enough offshore wind to power 6 million homes. Status: Uncertain. New York has committed to becoming a leader in offshore wind, with plans — like the Empire Wind and Sunrise Wind projects — to develop enough to power about 6 million homes by 2035. But significant challenges remain.
By 2040, we must reach 100% zero-emission electricity. Status: Very Behind: The state needs to significantly scale renewable energy infrastructure and improve the electrical grid and energy storage. The pace suggests is not looking good, especially if the 2030 goal is so behind.
By 2050, we must get completely off fossil fuels. Status: Very Behind. This is CLCPA's ultimate goal and non-negotiable for a carbon-neutral economy. It will require us to meet all the other goals through aggressive policies that support clean energy. This is not currently happening.
35% of benefits of clean energy and energy efficiency funding must go to "disadvantaged" communities, typically described as “low-income.” Status: Unclear. In the fiscal year 2022-2023, the state created a $4.2 billion Climate Action Fund (CAF) in the budget. With other programs, it might end up meeting the surface mandate of the law, but it's not likely to meet its full purpose.
Action Corner
Sign up for NY Renews. CLCPA was made possible by NY Renews and its coalition of 300+ climate groups (MJN is a coalition member). They pay close attention to progress, keep New York accountable, and regularly release actions to get involved.
