Paulin’s alternative energy bill passed the state assembly this week. The bill will promote the use of green energy sources by encouraging towns and villages to consider certain renewable energy sources when designing zoning and planning regulations.

Currently, factors such as safety from fire, flood, and other dangers are considered when a town or village creates a comprehensive plan for development. Under the new law, such resources to consider would include wind, hydroelectric, geothermal electric, geothermal ground source heat, tidal energy, wave energy, ocean thermal and more.

“When a town creates zoning and planning regulations, they should consider the environmental impact of what they are planning,” said Assemblywoman Paulin “This bill will promote the use of clean, renewable and sustainable green energy sources.”

If passed by the Senate and signed by the governor, the bill will take effect immediately.