Rick Karlin is reporting at Capitol Confidential the state Public Service Commission on Mon., Aug. 1, passed a new set of standards to ensure that half of New York’s energy needs are met by renewable methods by 2030. Those renewable methods range from solar and wind, to hydro and nuclear power. The move was generally hailed by environmental groups. PSC Chairwoman Audrey Zibelman said, “The Commission’s primary interest is to see that renewables get built in New York. I think this is a pragmatic approach.” The environmental group Environmental Advocates said it particularly liked the requirement to move power generators toward a more renewable, green standard. The plan is not without controversy, however. It does include subsidies to make sure the state's existing upstate nuclear plants remain open. Critics complain the subsidies will cause New Yorkers to pay more for their power, and argue those funds would be better spent on the development of more renewables. Read the full story at Capitol Confidential, a Times Union blog.