Clean Energy Investments for New York State (PERI)

This study by researchers Robert Pollin, Heidi Garrett-Peltier and Jeannette Wicks-Lim from the Political Economy Research Institute (PERI) of the University of Massachusetts Amherst examines the benefits of large-scale investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency for New York State. It also proposes a policy framework for supporting such clean energy investments throughout the state. The study shows how these investments can advance two fundamental goals: promoting global climate stabilization by reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gas emissions; and expanding good job opportunities throughout the state. The study presents a realistic path for New York to cut CO2 emissions by 40 percent as of 2030 relative to the present, and to drive emissions down to zero as of 2050. It also advances Just Transition policies to support workers and communities that will be negatively impacted through the necessary decline of the state’s fossil fuel industry. The study can be downloaded from the PERI website.