Editor, OBSERVER:

For manufacturers across New York, abundant and reliable energy is not a luxury or a choice. Around the clock power, 365 days a year, drives daily operations, keeps us competitive and allows us to grow our workforce and continue investing in communities. This is why we strongly support an all-of-the-above approach to energy policy–one that embraces natural gas, nuclear energy, emerging clean technologies, and above all, the core principles of affordability and reliability.

This approach is critical now more than ever. New York’s energy systems are facing unprecedented challenges. We have aging infrastructure that needs to be replaced and upgraded, new generation projects are not keeping pace with projected electricity demand, and we want to maintain one of the nation’s cleanest electric grids. All of these issues stand in front of us at a time when New York is poised to see one of the largest manufacturing investments in American history.

The good news is we can tackle these issues, lead the nation in American manufacturing, and revitalize our communities at the same time – and the state is taking strong steps to get us there. In recent months, Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration has advanced several initiatives that manufacturers welcome. This includes efforts to deploy new nuclear energy, allow for expanded natural gas capacity to reduce supply constraints, pausing one-size-fits -all electrification mandates, and finalizing a strong State Energy Plan.

We appreciate the Governor’s recognition that New York’s families and communities need an economic boom, and years of promised investment, job creation, and growth will only be successful if we align our climate ambitions with the practical needs of manufacturers, ratepayers, workers, and communities. This is why the state’s commitment to an all-of-the-above energy strategy is so vital, because it sends a clear message to manufacturers that New York is ready and able to power new investments.

Every manufacturing facility is in competition with others around the globe. A robust energy system that meets the needs of New York manufacturers can be New York’s leg up to retain and create more opportunities for in-state manufacturing. However, we need to do more.

We need to reform policies and reduce regulatory delays, encourage energy diversity through new and existing state efforts, and support common sense infrastructure upgrades that unlock energy and in turn lead to more jobs. We need to partner with other jurisdictions and companies looking to build the energy systems of the future that will support us for decades to come. Lastly, we need to leave all options on the table and allow markets to develop and mature – leading to the most affordable choices for New Yorkers.

Manufacturers are ready to partner with the state to build a stronger, cleaner, more reliable energy future. But that future must be grounded in realism and a commitment to keeping New York competitive. An all-of-the-above approach–embracing natural gas, nuclear, renewables, and emerging innovations — is the path that ensures our lights stay on, our workers stay employed, and our communities continue to grow.

This letter was endorsed by: Randy Wolken, President & CEO, MACNY, The Manufacturers Association; Peter Ahrens, Executive Director, Buffalo Niagara Manufacturing Alliance; Bob Coyne, Executive Director, Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association; Stacey Duncan, CEO, Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce; Mark Eagan, President & CEO, Center for Economic Growth; Harold King, President, Council of Industry, Manufacturers Association of the Hudson Valley; and Todd Tranum, Executive Director, Manufacturers Association of the Southern Tier.