Recap of Columbia Forum on Future of Indian Point

Earlier this month, Columbia Law School’s Center for Climate Change held a forum on the future of the Indian Point nuclear facility. The panelists, who hold contrasting views on the value of the facility and its role in New York State’s energy portfolio, included:

• Hon. Arthur “Jerry” Kremer, New York AREA
• John Kelly, Indian Point Energy Center (retired)
• Paul Gallay, Riverkeeper
• Ashok Gupta, National Resource Defense Council

Mr. Kelly and Mr. Kremer delivered poignant statements based on factual evidence and science to highlight Indian Point’s vital role in meeting New York’s energy needs.

• Hon. Jerry Kremer: “The real experts confirm that private capital is not available, carbon emissions would increase, electricity prices would rise 5-10% and we would face the prospect of rolling blackouts.”

Mr. Kelly additionally provided ample information, based on his 30-plus years working at Indian Point, supporting the plant’s proven safety record.

• John Kelly: “Chernobyl’s reactor design is not used in the United States, so it is not possible and a moot issue with Indian Point. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has found the plant to be safe 8 years in a row.”

New York AREA’s chairman and member successfully articulated the many ways in which Indian Point is an economic and environmental asset for downstate New York and an essential part of the state’s energy mix.  They responded to claims by plant opponents with logical, scientific, and factual evidence based on expert analyses, studies, and reports, as well as personal experience.

To view more highlights from the forum, please watch the below video, then share it using the on-screen options button.