A recent statement from Randy Wolken, President and CEO of the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY), highlights a growing bipartisan agreement in New York on the importance of natural gas as part of the state’s energy strategy. As New York works toward ambitious goals in manufacturing, housing, economic development, and infrastructure, concerns are rising that its power systems could be strained without action.
Wolken pointed to polling data showing broad support for natural gas across political lines. According to the survey, 84% of New Yorkers view natural gas as reliable and 76% see it as affordable. Even among Democrats, who often prioritize renewable energy sources, 81% consider natural gas reliable and 72% find it affordable. Similar majorities were reported among Republicans and Independents.
The poll also found that 74% believe investing in natural gas is essential, with 68% describing it as a “cleaner” energy source and 63% saying it offers better heating value than electricity. When asked about their top priorities regarding energy, 42% of respondents cited affordability while 39% mentioned reliability.
Support for a diverse mix of energy resources was evident in the survey results. Most respondents favored solar (82%), natural gas (79%), wind (75%), and hydroelectric power (73%) as key parts of the state’s energy plan. This indicates that many New Yorkers do not see natural gas and renewables as competing options but rather as complementary tools to ensure energy security and promote economic growth.
Infrastructure expansion also received strong backing: 72% supported new natural gas pipelines such as the Northeast Supply Enhancement project. Among those supporting such projects, majorities cited reasons like maintaining affordability amid supply constraints (87%), improving reliability during peak winter demand (87%), and encouraging economic growth through job creation and increased tax revenue (81%).
“These findings align with MACNY’s support of an abundant energy approach and a needed focus on natural gas. The state Public Service Commission agreed, recently determining that the Northeast Supply Enhancement project is essential for reliability—a decision widely praised by business, labor, and community groups,” Wolken said.
He added: “Our members want energy that strengthens our economy, keeps the lights on, and seeks lower rates. Energy reliability and affordability aren’t partisan issues but shared priorities that cut across political and geographic boundaries.”
Wolken concluded by emphasizing that now is a critical moment for aligning public opinion with policy direction: “At MACNY, we believe this is a decisive moment of alignment between public opinion, policy direction, and practical energy needs. Across parties, regions, and perspectives, New Yorkers overwhelmingly support a balanced energy future—one that blends innovation with reliability, and renewables with resilience. Our message to state leaders must be unmistakable: New York wants energy policy grounded in pragmatism, progress, and affordability for all. Energy abundance is how we achieve these policy goals.”
