Dr. Rudy Mueller, candidate for New York State Assembly 150th District, calls for common sense solutions to our state's long-term energy needs.
Mueller explains, "I agree with Governor Cuomo and others who call for a 21st century NYS energy highway. However, I do not agree with his desire to build a multi-billion dollar energy transmission line from New York City to Canada and then buy Canadian power. We'll send billions of dollars out of our state for years to come. We must 'stop the bleeding' and become energy independent. New York has many different energy resources that can be used wisely. And let's not forget the importance of energy conservation, it may seem boring but it's probably our most cost effective long-term energy policy."
Mueller added, "It makes no sense to close NRG EPA approved coal burning plants when over $400 million has already been invested in them to meet 2015 emission standards. Natural gas might be low cost now but who knows the future. If more coal power plants are closed, soon natural gas prices will spike again. This State must invest and upgrade its energy transmission lines, especially east of Utica, and make the relatively lower cost power in western New York more available to downstate. The NYS Legislature could create a statewide transmission capability by authorizing a new New York Transmission Company which would modernize transmission facilities and lines. This estimated $2.9 billion investment, paid mostly by downstate energy users, could create an estimated 38,000-46,000 total jobs throughout New York State."
Mueller well knows such action by the state will require strong leadership from the majority parties in the Assembly and Senate. Should the voters in Chautauqua County elect Mueller as their next Assemblyman, he plans to work closely with Senator Young and make these upgraded transmission lines a reality.
