Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I—Pulaski) released the following statement today following an Assembly committee hearing in Albany during which some so-called environmental groups and Assembly Downstate representatives questioned the need for nuclear power generation. Many from Oswego County traveled to Albany to provide facts to the panel on nuclear energy and the economic impact of the local power plants.

“When people come home from work, they expect to turn on their lights. Nuclear generated electricity enables this while keeping our carbon emissions low, keeping energy prices affordable, preventing an overreliance on fossil fuels, and supporting 25,000 jobs in Upstate New York. It is a safe, reliable and efficient form of electric generation. As I’ve said in the past, I applaud the Public Service Commission and the Governor for having the foresight to support this proven and efficient form of electric generation. I also want to thank the many local people who traveled to Albany today testify to the many benefits these plants have on the environment, the economy, and the community.”