“While it is important for New York State to invest in clean energy, these efforts must be balanced with the interests of utility ratepayers. The Public Service Commission rushed through the nuclear-specific Zero Emissions Credit (ZEC) without input or oversight – a so-called ‘nuclear plant bailout’ of three upstate facilities that doesn’t pass this test.

“The cost of paying for this emissions credit, nearly $1 billion over two years, would fall squarely on the shoulders of ratepayers who are already overburdened. This is wholly unacceptable, and I can’t support such a massive subsidy.

“That’s why I’m co-sponsoring a bill to place a moratorium on the nuclear bailout until Dec. 31, 2018 (A.5985). This will give the Legislature time to explore alternative ways to reach our clean energy goals that don’t unfairly and excessively burden New Yorkers.”