con ed, con edison, lockout

Scientist Slams Con Ed Storm Plan

By
Ilya Marritz
WNYC News | Jun 4, 2013

Con Edison has submitted plans to state regulators to spend $1 billion reinforcing electrical infrastructure. But a noted scientist who studies the effects of climate change on infrastructure says the utility's proposals would leave New York exposed to future storms.

Columbia University’s Klaus Jacob says Con Ed's plan is "designing to Sandy," and completely ignores research suggesting sea levels will rise 7 to 12 inches by the 2050s.

Jacob wrote a report on Con Ed's plan at the request of the state attorney general, Eric Schneiderman.

In a statement to WNYC, Con Ed says it expects its storm-hardening program "to evolve for many years."

Click here to read Klaus Jacob's report.

Clarification: Klaus Jacob is a seismologist by training. An earlier version of this story identified him as a climate scientist. 

Profile Image
Ilya Marritz

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

Are Waymo robotaxis actually safer than NYC Uber and taxi drivers?

A new analysis concludes Waymos were involved in more serious crashes per mile than the city’s for-hire fleet.
Gothamist |

Rahm Emanuel Says Israel’s Path Is “Not Sustainable Politically.” Plus, the Critic Richard Brody on “The Odyssey”

A likely Democratic presidential candidate says the U.S. must end unconditional support for Israel. Emanuel explains his proposal for Middle East peace, and his position on trans rights.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |

From Subpoenas to Cockroaches: Journalist Intimidation 101

Plus, a documentary about the eBay stalking scandal.
On the Media |

Join us for a live series on what it means to make New York more affordable

We’re holding community events across New York City, “In Conversation: The Affordability Series,” through the rest of the year to explore real solutions to issues affecting millions of New Yorkers.
Gothamist |
YOU ARE ONLINE