Senator Maziarz promotes liquefied natural gas facilities in New York

Senator George Maziarz (R-C, Newfane), Chairman of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee applauded last week’s action by the Department of Environmental Conservation in proposing regulations to allow for the construction and operation of new liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities under permit from the Department of Environmental Conservation.

“I congratulate Commissioner Martens and Governor Cuomo for taking this common sense step to allow the DEC to permit LNG facilities in New York State. I carried and passed two bills through the Senate earlier this year (S1119-A and S5846-A) that would have allowed a similar process to occur with the force of statute,” Said Senator Maziarz. “While this is a positive step, the Legislature still has more work to do, if we are to truly realize the full benefits of LNG. Currently, a de-facto moratorium on the intrastate transportation of LNG exists in New York State. I will work to repeal this harmful regulation next year, and I call on the New York State Assembly to stop blocking this much needed reform.”

LNG is rapidly becoming a preferred fuel for trucks and other fleet vehicles because of its economic and environmental benefits. The low price of natural gas means that a company who converts from diesel to natural gas will save between $1-$3 a gallon on their fuel costs. These savings can then be reinvested in labor and equipment, thereby creating jobs.

LNG is also a clean burning fuel that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. According to the League of Conservation Voters, conversion from diesel to LNG leads to a 70%-90% reduction in carbon monoxide emissions, and a 20%-30% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. Not only does LNG improve air quality but it also rapidly vaporizes harmlessly into the air if a spill occurs, unlike diesel fuel or gasoline that when spilled, can pose a risk of groundwater contamination.

“As it relates to encouraging the storage, use and transportation of LNG in New York State, we have a rare chance to help businesses and at the same time act as responsible environmental stewards,” Said Maziarz. “We can’t miss that chance because a few extremist environmental groups want to oppose any policy change that mentions the term “natural gas.” I look forward to working with Commissioner Martens, Governor Cuomo and my colleagues in the legislature to ensure that common sense trumps base politics on this important issue.” 

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