New York’s Environmental Policies: A Closer Look at Recent Decisions
By Philip Gillemot
On November 7, Governor Kathy Hochul’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEC) made waves by granting a five-year operating permit for the Bitcoin mining facility located in the Village of Dresden, positioned on the western shore of Seneca Lake. This decision receives scrutiny, especially considering Hochul’s concurrent approval of the Williams Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) pipeline. Additionally, the governor hinted at delaying the implementation of the All-Electric Building Act, which had initially passed in 2023.
These recent actions align with a history of lobbying by various business groups, particularly noted during the summer of 2024. As reported by WaterFront, these groups sought to either delay or dilute key mandates of the All-Electric Building Act. Hochul appeared receptive to their concerns, emphasizing the financial burden on New York families amidst rising costs. "The goals are still worthy," she stated during a July 18 television interview, "but we have to think about the collateral damage of these decisions."
The Impact of the Bitcoin Mining Facility
The Greenidge Generation facility, a cryptocurrency mining operation, has been a topic of debate ever since its air permit was denied by the DEC over three years ago. Despite its controversial status, operations continued while appeals were pending, ultimately leading to the recent granting of a new operating permit. The facility, which relies on burning natural gas, contributes significantly to carbon dioxide emissions—an issue that worsens climate change and its associated disasters, including hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.
A two-year moratorium on fossil fuel power plants for cryptomining, enacted in 2022, aimed to assess the environmental impact of the industry. However, the latest Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Greenidge facility has sparked concerns among environmental advocates, particularly because an alternative method for Bitcoin mining—namely Proof of Stake (PoS)—could substantially reduce energy consumption and emissions. By switching to PoS, the facility could use less than one percent of its current energy, a move successfully executed by Ethereum three years ago.
Pipeline Approvals and Skepticism
The recent approval of the NESE pipeline by the DEC has raised alarms among environmentalists and lawmakers alike. Despite previous denials in 2019 and 2020, the decision came shortly after political pressure from then-President Trump, igniting accusations of political maneuvering that prioritize short-term gains over long-term environmental health. Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado and several advocates have demanded that Hochul reconsider her stance, insisting that the pipeline poses significant risks to New York’s waterways and ecosystems.
Both the NESE and the Constitution pipelines threaten sensitive habitats and could disturb toxic residues in the New York Harbor, affecting fisheries and wildlife populations.
Delaying the All-Electric Building Act
In a further turn of events, Hochul announced plans to postpone the implementation of the All-Electric Building Act, originally scheduled for January 1, 2026. This law mandates that newly constructed buildings under seven stories be equipped with electric heat and appliances, with broader requirements slated for taller buildings by 2029. Existing structures are exempt, which some see as a potential loophole that continues to allow fossil fuel dependence.
The delay comes at a time when various trade groups and unions are appealing a court ruling against their challenge to the law. Hochul’s administration has stated the necessity for further review, aligning her decisions with both industry concerns and the potential fiscal impact on residents.
A Tension Between Progress and Industry
The back-and-forth between pushing for sustainable practices and accommodating business interests illustrates a complex balancing act for Hochul’s administration. Each decision, from the Bitcoin mining permit to pipeline approval and delayed legislation, reflects the ongoing tug-of-war between environmental advocacy and economic pressures.
Next Steps and Public Dissatisfaction
The environmental community’s response to these decisions remains uncertain. Advocates for clean energy and sustainable infrastructure are likely to voice their concerns and push for accountability, especially given the looming deadlines and the implications of these policies.
As we move forward, the state’s approach to environmental regulations will remain a crucial topic of discussion. The challenge lies in finding solutions that are both economically viable and environmentally responsible, working towards a future that benefits all New Yorkers.