New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy have greenlit key permits for the Trump-backed Northeast Supply Enhancement pipeline, a 42-mile underwater gas conduit that would supply Pennsylvania's natural gas to NYC residents.
The decision marks a significant reversal by the state, which previously denied similar permit applications in 2020. The change comes after public pressure from President Donald Trump, who urged Hochul to reconsider the project.
According to New York Governor Hochul, securing the pipeline permits will help ensure "the lights and heat stay on for all New Yorkers" as energy shortages loom over Downstate areas by next summer. She expressed confidence in her regulators' review of the project.
However, environmental organizations are outraged at the decision, labeling it an "affront to clean water, energy affordability, and a stable climate." The Sierra Club's Atlantic chapter criticized Hochul for caving under Trump's pressure, stating that New Yorkers don't need or can afford the pipeline.
In contrast, Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella welcomed the news, arguing that it would boost economic growth and environmental stewardship. National Grid has also expressed support for the project, saying it will bolster critical energy reliability across NYC and Long Island.
While some residents may face increased utility bills – with estimated hikes of $7.44 in Long Island and $7.61 on Brooklyn Staten Island and parts of Queens – supporters point to skyrocketing energy costs as justification for the pipeline.
Despite concerns over environmental damage, construction is proposed to minimize impairment to marine resources, while mitigation measures will be required for unavoidable impacts. New Jersey still needs to issue an air-quality permit, with a public hearing scheduled for Thursday.
Environmental groups, including Earthjustice, have hinted that they could challenge the state's reversal in court, citing a lack of substantive changes to the pipeline proposal. As the story continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the Northeast Supply Enhancement pipeline has reignited controversy over energy policy and environmental stewardship in NYC and beyond.
The decision marks a significant reversal by the state, which previously denied similar permit applications in 2020. The change comes after public pressure from President Donald Trump, who urged Hochul to reconsider the project.
According to New York Governor Hochul, securing the pipeline permits will help ensure "the lights and heat stay on for all New Yorkers" as energy shortages loom over Downstate areas by next summer. She expressed confidence in her regulators' review of the project.
However, environmental organizations are outraged at the decision, labeling it an "affront to clean water, energy affordability, and a stable climate." The Sierra Club's Atlantic chapter criticized Hochul for caving under Trump's pressure, stating that New Yorkers don't need or can afford the pipeline.
In contrast, Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella welcomed the news, arguing that it would boost economic growth and environmental stewardship. National Grid has also expressed support for the project, saying it will bolster critical energy reliability across NYC and Long Island.
While some residents may face increased utility bills – with estimated hikes of $7.44 in Long Island and $7.61 on Brooklyn Staten Island and parts of Queens – supporters point to skyrocketing energy costs as justification for the pipeline.
Despite concerns over environmental damage, construction is proposed to minimize impairment to marine resources, while mitigation measures will be required for unavoidable impacts. New Jersey still needs to issue an air-quality permit, with a public hearing scheduled for Thursday.
Environmental groups, including Earthjustice, have hinted that they could challenge the state's reversal in court, citing a lack of substantive changes to the pipeline proposal. As the story continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the Northeast Supply Enhancement pipeline has reignited controversy over energy policy and environmental stewardship in NYC and beyond.
, not surprised tho 
. Politicians always listen to the big guys, you know? Trump's all over Hochul's case about this thing, and now she caves 
. I mean, I get it, energy shortages and all that jazz 
️, but at what cost? The environment, people! 
We're not just talking about some polar bears here, we're talking about our own waterways, air quality... everything! 
. I'm all for economic growth and whatnot, but you can't just ignore the bigger picture 
. We need to be smarter than this, folks. Less is more 
when it comes to energy policy. And NJ still needs to get its act together with that air-quality permit... this ain't over yet 
. It was so surreal! Anyway, back to this pipeline thing... has anyone considered the impact on marine life? Like, what if all that gas seeps into the water and causes some kind of aquatic disaster? I know the construction is supposed to minimize harm, but can we really be sure? 
I'm so done with this whole deal! Like, can't we just prioritize clean water and air over lining our pockets with gas company profits? 
I get that energy shortages are a thing, but is this really the solution? The estimated $7+ billion price tag is just, like, wow. And what about the potential long-term effects on marine life? 
It's like they're trying to gaslight us into thinking this is a good idea. I'm not buying it, NY State! 
... I mean, I get it, energy shortages are a real thing, but do we really need to sacrifice our oceans for it? 
, I mean who knew being ex-president would give you a seat at the table? But seriously, this is a big deal and not just because I'm worried about my electricity bill going up by $8... or whether I'll be able to afford avocado toast anymore 
. On a more serious note though, it's weird how suddenly everyone's all for energy policy when it comes down to it – like, was it always this easy? Also, can we talk about the environmental groups who are totally salty right now? Earthjustice and Sierra Club better bring their A-game if they wanna challenge this decision 
The thought of all that gas pumping into the ocean is giving me anxiety just thinking about it 
. but honestly, i'm worried about the environmental impact of it all 
... shouldn't our leaders be making decisions based on science not politics? 
. Still, it's a complex issue and not everyone will be happy with the outcome. One thing's for sure, though: this pipeline decision has brought up a lot to discuss about energy policy and sustainability 