The key to resolving New York's energy woes is through increased investment in our own electric transmission and generation resources, which will in turn create and sustain jobs and revenue within the state ("Quebec's role: 'Solution provider,'" Feb. 16). It is simply bad public policy to look to our neighbors to the north as the silver-bullet solution to our energy needs.
If we choose to import power from outside of New York, we are setting the stage for serious economic consequences. One such proposal, the Champlain Hudson Power Express line, is nothing more than a 330-mile extension cord from Canada to Queens. By design, the transmission line would shut out upstate power generators, eliminate market incentives to build or repower plants here in New York and export thousands of jobs and $12 billion across the border.
It is in New York's best interest to focus on expanding in-state generation sources and the jobs that they foster. Recently, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand introduced a bill that would bring back manufacturing jobs to our shores. State leaders should take note of her effort and support actions that promote investment in our state's energy infrastructure so that we continue to power New York with energy produced in our own back yard.
PAUL RYAN
White Plains