Renewable-energy initiatives must include local input
As an elected official representing a coastal community, I am keenly aware of the environmental challenges we face. Our area has endured the direct and often devastating effects of weather-related incidents, and we understand the critical role renewable energy must play in shaping a sustainable future. However, let’s be clear: Any initiative must be approached not just with environmental responsibility, but with the safety and fairness our residents deserve.
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s aggressive renewable-energy initiatives are nothing more than another example of the state shoving unfunded mandates down the throats of smaller local governments, like Nassau County. These projects are being forced upon us, and worse, it’s increasingly clear that they are flawed. This is not just unfair — it’s a blatant financial burden on our local taxpayers, and the Democrats in New York state have done a poor job of addressing our most fundamental concerns, particularly when it comes to safety.
Let me set the record straight: Opposing these initiatives doesn’t mean denying climate change. And it’s tiresome hearing the false narrative that paints anyone not fully onboard with these rushed projects as a climate change denier. That’s not the issue here. There is much support for renewable energy and the necessity to combat climate change. But I join those who demand that it be done responsibly, by prioritizing the safety, security and well-being of our communities. It’s not about blindly embracing new technologies; it’s about making sure they are safe and thoroughly evaluated before being implemented.
One of the most dangerous and under-discussed aspects of offshore wind projects is the use of battery energy storage systems, which have a documented history of failures, including catastrophic fires and explosions. Yet the state has failed to show that these risks have been properly mitigated in the projects it is pushing on Nassau County. Our fire codes are still being updated to handle these technologies — how can anyone think it’s acceptable to move forward under these conditions? When companies like Equinor bypass public outreach and dismiss community concerns, they undermine trust, and make it even harder to build consensus for projects that are already controversial.
At the core of this issue is the state’s arrogant refusal to address the very real safety concerns raised by residents. Officials have brushed aside legitimate fears about electric and magnetic fields, fire hazards and other serious risks. We need to ask ourselves whether we are solving one environmental crisis only to create another.
Hochul’s administration is so laser-focused on its unrealistic 2035 renewable energy goals that it has abandoned common sense, rushing these projects without the necessary risk assessments or community input. It’s reckless and irresponsible, and shows a complete disregard for public safety.
Nassau County has exceptional emergency-response capabilities, but we shouldn’t be forced to cover for the state’s lack of due diligence. The responsibility for proving these projects are safe lies squarely with the state — not with local governments trying to protect their residents. This isn’t just about finances; it’s about protecting lives and ensuring that our residents’ safety is never compromised in the pursuit of political agendas.
Democratic-controlled Albany needs to wake up and start listening. Local governments and the communities we serve deserve respect, not top-down mandates that trample over our concerns. The state must start collaborating with municipalities to ensure that renewable-energy projects are safe and sustainable, and don’t burden local taxpayers. We need transparency, accountability and responsible planning, not reckless mandates that bypass local input entirely.
Renewable energy is vital for our future, and we are ready to do our part. But we will not stand by while Albany’s misguided approach puts our communities at risk. Hochul’s strategy isn’t just flawed — it’s dangerous. It’s time for the state to hit the brakes, re-evaluate, and ensure that these projects are done right before pushing forward with these hazardous, unfunded mandates.
Patrick Mullaney represents Nassau County’s 4th Legislative District.
