After Tour Of Somerset Plant, Hochul Commits To Renewable Energy Future For Niagara County

Supports New Plan to Diversify Energy Production

WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. – Recently, Representative Kathy Hochul (NY-26) toured the Somerset, New York power plant and met with plant management and stakeholders to discuss the plant’s future, including plans to begin co-firing locally grown, renewable biomass, which will reduce the facility’s environmental impact and create new economic opportunities for Western New York farmers.

“One of my top priorities representing Western New York is to help ensure clean, affordable, and reliable energy is available to families and business in our region,” said Rep. Hochul.  “The leadership at Somerset plant has taken steps in the right direction by beginning preparations for co-firing locally grown, renewable biomass. This will further diversify our energy portfolio and protect New York from volatility in energy markets, netting significant future savings for the people of our state”

Currently, Rep. Hochul is discussing opportunities with the New York Power Authority and local economic development leaders to facilitate the plant's utilization of biomass.

Renewable energy is a main component of Rep. Hochul’s comprehensive energy plan as well as her Revitalizing our Economy through Business, Infrastructure, and Local Development (REBUILD) Plan.

Click here for photos of Rep. Hochul’s tour of the Somerset power plant.