Climate ChangeThe New York Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act of 2019 (CLCPA) requires total statewide greenhouse gas emissions to be reduced 40% from 1990 levels in 2030 and 85% in 2050, with a goal (aided by offsets) of 100% by 2050. It also requires 70% of electricity demand in 2030 to be met by renewables, and 100% from "zero emissions" sources (meaning renewables plus nuclear) in 2040.

These goals are consistent with the objectives of the Paris Climate Agreement, but all agree that they will be challenging to meet. The Climate Action Council created by the CLCPA issued a draft "scoping plan" on Jan. 1, 2022 to achieve these goals, has held public hearings around the state on the plan, and is due to release a final plan by Jan. 1, 2023.

The path has now been eased by three laws signed by President Biden.