ALBANY, NY (April 24, 2025) — A recent poll reveals that New Yorkers strongly support reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but only if it does not increase energy costs, according to a survey conducted by Morning Consult for the Empire Center for Public Policy in December 2024.
The poll found that 60 percent of New Yorkers favor green policies and emission reduction efforts, provided they do not lead to higher energy prices. This sentiment is consistent across all demographics, including age, income, and political affiliation. However, nearly half of respondents are unwilling to pay for clean energy or would contribute only a modest amount—less than $10 per month. Just 3 to 5 percent are open to spending $200 or more monthly on clean energy.
Two-thirds of New Yorkers advocate for policies balancing affordability and sustainability in energy production. Meanwhile, 20 percent prioritize lower energy costs, even if it results in higher greenhouse gas emissions, with 30 percent of Republican-leaning respondents favoring cheaper energy. Conversely, 20 percent support reducing emissions even at the cost of higher prices, particularly among Democrat-leaning respondents, 32 percent of whom share this view.
The poll also highlighted a lack of awareness about the Climate Leadership Community Protection Act (CLCPA), with 50 percent of New Yorkers unfamiliar with the law and 25 percent aware of it but unclear on its details. Only 12 percent believe they understand the CLCPA’s provisions.
The Empire Center’s report, based on topline data, crosstabs, and an interactive database, underscores the challenge of aligning New Yorkers’ environmental goals with their economic priorities.
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