The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the Central New York Planning and Development Board (CNY RPDB) announced that Central New York communities have completed 242 high impact clean energy actions as part of NYSERDA’s Clean Energy Communities Program. This announcement complements Central NY Rising, which provides an economic blueprint for the region.
Announced by Governor Cuomo in August 2016, the $16 million initiative supports local government leaders across the state by providing grants to eligible municipalities to implement energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable development projects in their communities. Clean Energy Communities advances the governor’s Reforming the Energy (REV) strategy by demonstrating the importance of local governments and communities in helping New York reach its Clean Energy Standard mandate requiring that 50% of the state’s electricity come from renewable energy resources by 2030.
Solar-related clean energy actions include passing local approval processes for solar projects through the state’s Unified Solar Permit and reducing solar project costs through joint purchasing. Financing programs were established to bring affordable renewable energy rpojects to commercial buildings and not-for-profits.
The clean energy actions were completed in 16 communities in Central New York. The region is the first to reach this milestone in the state, with 108 municipalities participating in the Clean Energy Communities Program. More than 1,300 clean energy actions were completed throughout New York.
“This announcement marks another important milestone in New York’s efforts to deploy more renewable and efficient energy programs while reducing consumer energy costs under the leadership of Governor Cuomo, and demonstrates the impact individuals and municipalities can make by coming together to create a more sustainable future,” said Alicia Barton, president and CEO of NYSERDA.
Cities, counties, towns and villages that complete at least four of 10 high-impact clean energy actions are designated Clean Energy Communities and are eligible to apply for funding of up to $250,000 with no local cost share. Those with fewer than 40,000 residents are eligible to apply for up to $100,000.
NYSERDA is accepting applications for funding through September 30, 2019 or until funds are exhausted. Funds are provided through the Clean Energy Fund and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.
“We are proud to have assisted Central New York municipalities in completing 242 High Impact Actions through NYSERDA’s Clean Energy Communities Program,” said Chris Carrick, energy program manager of CNY RPDB. “By completing these actions, municipalities have reduced their energy use, saved money and made Central New York sustainable.”
News item from NYSERDA
Tell Us What You Think!