Nassau County Legislator Jeffrey Toback (D-Oceanside) today joined with fellow members of the Planning, Development and Environment Committee to approve a resolution requiring Nassau County to redirect its energy priorities with the goal of purchasing at least 25% of its energy from nonpolluting “green,” renewable energy sources by the year 2010. The resolution passed through committees today and will go before the full legislature on March 7.

“Nassau County will be a leader in the effort to improve environmental quality, by redirecting its energy policy and requiring that energy needs be met by clean, renewable energy sources and not fossil fuels which are harmful to the environment and which increases reliance upon foreign fuel sources,” said Legislator Toback.

The resolution, sponsored by Legislator David Denenberg, calls for a change in the County’s purchase of energy, such as electricity, to include a growing proportion of non-polluting “green” power or renewable energy to a target of no less than 25% by the year 2010.

"We commend this proposal and LIPA will help the County achieve its goal," said LIPA Chairman Richard M. Kessel. "We are pleased that Nassau County is taking a leadership role in fostering the use of green power to help reduce power-plant emissions. LIPA's Green Choice program is a great way for municipalities, businesses and residential customers to purchase green power conveniently."

“Now more than ever we realize the importance of having domestic sources of safe, clean and renewable energy,” said Gordian Raacke, executive director of Renewable Energy Long Island (RELI), the islands only not for profit organization focusing on clean energy. The legislature is showing much needed leadership and commitment to bring pollution-free energy to Long Island and we hope that we can count on Nassau County government o lead by example.”