Data centers increasing draw on electricity and their reliance on natural gas has prompted Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York to consider drastic changes to the state’s 2019 climate law, the implementation of which, her agencies say, could lead to even higher energy bills.

 

As New York Energy Costs Surge, Attention Turns to Landmark Climate Law

The battle to lower costs has reached the State Capitol, where concerns have emerged about the fate of a 2019 climate law and its ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

By Hilary Howard

Published March 4, 2026Updated March 5, 2026