Next week in Syracuse, Gov. Kathy Hochul will convene an energy summit to discuss the role of clean energy and discuss accelerating renewables, while also supporting economic development in New York.

As Capital Tonight has reported, the state is already three years behind its own timetable to meet the goals of its climate law, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.

The 2019 legislation calls for an 85% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with an interim target of 40% by 2030.

Over the next week, Capital Tonight will feature conversations with several energy stakeholders. This past Wednesday, Capital Tonight hosted the New York State Business Council on the issue.

Of all the renewable energy sectors, community solar appears to be making the greatest headway.

Mark Richardson is the CEO of US Light Energy, headquartered in Latham, just outside of Albany. Richardson, who also chairs the Commercial and Industrial Policy Committee for the New York Solar Energy Industry Association, discussed community solar and the policy reforms he would like to see in New York with Capital Tonight’s Susan Arbetter.