Climate activists call on Gov. Hochul to stop natural gas pipeline expansion near Indian Point
The proposal from pipeline owner Enbridge would boost capacity along the Algonquin Pipeline by replacing existing underground pipes with larger ones, adding secondary lines, and expanding some compressor stations between New Jersey and Massachusetts.
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Climate activists on Tuesday rallied outside the now-shuttered Indian Point nuclear plant in Buchanan to protest plans to expand the Algonquin Pipeline.
The proposal from pipeline owner Enbridge would boost capacity along the Algonquin Pipeline by replacing existing underground pipes with larger ones, adding secondary lines, and expanding some compressor stations between New Jersey and Massachusetts.
The plan is being called "Project Maple."
Opponents called on Gov. Kathy Hochul to stop the proposal over construction concerns and increased natural gas flowing near Indian Point which is in the process of getting rid of tons of radioactive waste.
“Proposals to expand the reach of this dirty fossil fuel will come at our direct peril, bringing climate change-fueled disasters like this summer’s deadly flooding, higher energy bills, and serious health problems," said Food & Water Watch Senior NY Organizer Santosh Nandabalan.
A Holtec spokesperson told News 12, "We do not have any comment on that proposal, our focus is on the safe decommissioning of Indian Point."
Protesters also turned attention to New York's Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act, which was signed into law in 2019, and requires the state to reduce economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 and no less than 85 percent by 2050 from 1990s levels.
Enbridge's proposal is currently in the open season phase which the company is using to determine prospective shipper's needs for additional capacity. This period runs until Friday, Nov. 17.
An Enbridge spokesperson told News 12, "Enbridge recognizes the rights of individuals and groups to express their views legally and peacefully, and we always seek to resolve differences of opinion respectfully through dialogue."
The project will require federal approval from the U.S. Energy Regulatory Commission.
