Wind power is saving New York state more than 800 million gallons of water annually, according to the analysis authored by Environment New York’s Research and Policy Center. It also argues wind energy is helping reduce asthma-causing pollutants like sulfur dioxide found in acid rain and soot. Field Director Eric Whalen says the renewable resource will reduce rates of asthma and heart disease that go hand-in-hand with fossil fuels.
“One of the great things about renewable energy, and wind energy in particular, is that we can generate electricity in New York state without creating this public health problem,” Whalen said.
Through the report, Whalen also says they’re calling on Gov. Andrew Cuomo to extend the state’s clean energy programs.
"Our members of congress should do everything within their power to extend critical federal tax incentives for clean energy and for wind power in particular, which are set to expire at the end of the year,” Whalen said.
Opponents of wind power say without tax breaks the energy resource isn’t sustainable.
