New York Governor Kathy Hochul, D, introduced two major green energy infrastructure projects on September 20, 2021, that will power New York City with wind, solar, and hydropower from upstate New York and Canada.[1] The two new projects, known as the Clean Path New York (CPNY) and Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE), were selected through a competitive process. The 174-mile CPNY will be developed jointly by Forward Power and the New York Power Authority and will primarily transfer wind and solar power generated in upstate New York into the downstate area. The 339-mile CHPE will be advanced by Transmission Developers, Inc., and Hydro-Quebec and will mostly move hydropower down from Quebec, Canada.

Together, the projects seek to produce roughly 18 million MWh of renewable energy annually. They will also both reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 77 million metric tons and reduce exposure to harmful pollutants resulting in $2.9 billion in public health benefits over the next 15 years. The projects will create approximately 10,000 jobs statewide and bring $8.2 billion in economic development investments, including developer-committed investment to support disadvantaged communities. Both projects will advance New York’s goal of achieving 70% renewable-sourced electricity by 2030. The projects will cost over $13 billion to build, according to developers. If approved, CHPE and CPNY are expected to begin providing power to New York City in 2025 and 2027, respectively.

[1] https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/during-climate-week-governor-hochul-announces-major-green-energy-infrastructure-projects-power