Power to the People: Cutting Red Tape in the Fight for Publicly Owned Electric Utilities

Author: Mitchell Deutsch

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Matthew Cole

Easel: 90

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: In 2023, New York passed the Build Public Renewables Act (BPRA), in which the state committed to sourcing 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Although investor-owned electric utilities make up the majority of New York’s energy landscape, publicly owned utilities are generally better suited for advancing renewable energy because they prioritize public interest over profit. Using a variety of scholarly articles and case summaries, as well as two self-conducted interviews, I will compare two New York municipalities to demonstrate how outdated condemnation laws, prohibitively expensive feasibility studies, and drawn-out legal battles make it extremely difficult for public utilities to form. Furthermore, I will suggest that New York State streamline the municipalization process and provide state-backed financial and legal support to municipalities pursuing public power to meet the goals laid out in the BPRA.