New York’s electricity demand projected to surge 50%-90% by 2040, requiring tripling of capacity and emissions-free resources.

New York’s electricity demand could increase by 50% to 90% over the next two decades, driven by the electrification of heating and transportation, and the development of energy intensive projects and industry. The New York Independent System Operator (NYO) estimates that installed capacity will need to triple from 37 GW to 100 GW to 130 GW by 2040, and between 20 GW and 40 GW of emissions-free resources, or replacement 25 GW of fossil-fuel generation, will be needed. The state’s transition to a 100% zero-emission electricity system will require significant development of these resources, but the grid operator acknowledges the timeline for these resources remains uncertain. The ISO also anticipates the state shifting from a summer-to winter-peaking system around 2036.