Albany Rally - No to Fracking, Yes to Renewable Energy [UPDATED - Breaking News]

 

 Critical Crossroads for NY State -- Fracking vs. Renewable Energy.

In one direction is fracking, leading to further catastrophic dependence on fossil fuels. That path is lined with drill rigs, contaminated rivers and water wells, smog and toxic air, dangerous pipelines, compressor stations, and other infrastructure, and poisoned farms. It leads to a future with worse climate change, super storms and public health disasters.

In the other direction – Governor Cuomo and the people of New York say no to fracking and instead embrace renewable energy. That path leads to good jobs, healthy families, and sustainable homes and communities. New York can step up and show the nation and the world a place where people can live, work and thrive without dirty and dangerous extreme energy. We can take a stand for public health and clean water. We can champion and support our jobs in agriculture and tourism and continue to develop more jobs in efficiency and renewable energy like wind and solar.

Governor Cuomo has announced a decision will be made before the 2014 election and the fate of our state is at stake.

New Yorkers Against Fracking and supporting organizations will rally in Albany at the State of the State Address on Wednesday, January 8th, 2014 in order for Governor Cuomo to see that the will of the people of New York is to say no to fracking and yes to a healthy, renewable energy future.

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UPDATED - BREAKING NEWS: Associated Press - January 8, 1:04 PM

NY energy plan released; doesn't include fracking
ALBANY, N.Y. - (AP) -- New York's long-term energy plan focuses on increased use of renewable energy and clean technology, while reducing consumer utility bills.

The plan, released Tuesday for a 60-day public comment period, calls for expanding use of natural gas instead of oil to reduce harmful air emissions. But it doesn't include expanding in-state gas production through hydraulic fracturing in the Marcellus Shale.

The 2009 version touted the economic and energy policy benefits of tapping New York's shale gas resources. But the 2014 plan takes no position for or against fracking, noting that state officials are reviewing health and environmental concerns. New York has had a moratorium on fracking since an environmental review was launched in 2008.

Six public hearings will be held on the plan.

Link: Wall Street Journal.
See also www.energyplan.ny.gov