Governor Cuomo’s “Ambitious” State of the State Address will have Wide-Ranging Effects on Local Governments and School Districts

By James E. Beyer - In his State of the State Address on January 9, 2013, Governor Cuomo outlined numerous initiatives ranging from stricter gun control laws to a minimum wage increase to Hurricane Sandy relief…

NYSERDA Announces $1.1 Million Equipment Rebate Program to Help Small Municipal Governments Reduce Energy Use

By The Editorial Team - The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) today announced the “Buy Green, Save Green Rebates for New York State Local Governments” program, which is making $1.1 million available to encourage small municipal governments to replace inefficient appliances and equipment with energy-efficient models. The program …

Recent Hydrofracking Cases Could be Heard by State Appellate Courts in Coming Months

By Russell E. Maines - Two recent state court rulings have determined that municipalities may enact zoning laws that prohibit natural gas "hydrofracking" without running afoul of state laws that preempt (i.e., trump) local regulation of natural gas exploration...

The Hydraulic Fracturing Debate Continues in New York

By John T. McManus and Sugam Langer - The long-raging debate over the use of horizontal drilling and high-volume hydraulic fracturing or hydrofracking in the Marcellus Shale and other low-permeability gas reservoirs continues in New York state. Although many environmental groups and a minority of New Yorkers vehemently oppose the use of these techniques, particularly hydrofracking, in the development of New York's extensive oil and natural gas resources, particularly in the Marcellus Shale, an increasing number of proponents are stepping forward in an effort to explain the benefits of these proven processes...

New York State Public Service Commission Reauthorizes Funding for Energy Efficiency and New Technology/Market Development Programs

Two very significant funding programs to increase energy efficiency and encourage development of new technology and renewable energy sources were recently reauthorized by the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC). This is important news for municipalities interested in seeking assistance in identifying and funding energy efficiency measures and implementing new energy projects...

NYSERDA Offers Funding to Support K-12 Classroom Projects Focused on Home Energy Savings

For the first time, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is offering awards to support classroom projects specifically designed to increase students' knowledge about energy efficiency and sustainability in their homes...