New york’s mayor-elect could be game-changer for public clean energy push

New York City’s incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has clean energy advocates buzzing with anticipation. The Democratic Socialist, who won his primary with strong support from environmental groups, campaigned on a promise to deliver “power to the people” – and activists are hoping he means that literally through expanded public renewable energy systems.

Mamdani’s election comes at a critical juncture for New York’s clean energy ambitions. In 2023, the state passed the Build Public Renewables Act, requiring the New York Power Authority to fast-track enough solar and wind projects to power 70% of the state by 2030. However, critics argue the agency’s current 7-gigawatt plan falls short of meeting this goal, with renewable energy still accounting for only about 25% of the state’s power – a figure that has barely budged in recent years.

While the mayor’s office doesn’t directly control state energy projects, Mamdani could play a crucial supporting role. His administration could mandate solar installations on city buildings, align municipal permitting with clean energy goals, and enforce Local Law 97, which requires large buildings to nearly halve their emissions by 2030. The city already has successful partnerships with the Power Authority, including solar panels on 47 schools and energy-efficient lighting upgrades that will save $10 million annually.

The challenge is significant: New York City remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels due to transmission bottlenecks that prevent upstate renewable energy from reaching the city. With federal clean energy tax credits expiring in 2027 and budget constraints looming, advocates see this as a pivotal moment to accelerate the transition to public renewable energy while addressing affordability concerns for residents.