ALBANY, N.Y. — The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and New York Power Authority (NYPA) announced the availability of $3.8 million for the launch of a statewide Geothermal Clean Energy Challenge, an initiative designed to help stimulate financing and installation of large-scale geothermal systems at state and local governmental entities, public and private schools, and health care facilities. The initiative promotes clean and sustainable energy use and directly supports Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030.

The Challenge provides New York facilities with the opportunity to apply for an analysis to determine whether their buildings are best suited for the installation of geothermal pumps (i.e., ground-source energy heat pumps) for heating and cooling by transferring heat to or from the ground.

Eligible organizations that can apply for a geothermal assessment include state and local governmental entities (state agencies, fire departments, and water and sewer districts), and public or private K-12 schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, and nursing homes. NYSERDA and NYPA are jointly administering the challenge.

“NYSERDA is excited to be partnering with NYPA and with municipalities, schools, and health care institutions to explore the exciting potential of geothermal energy to reduce emissions and operating costs at eligible facilities,” said Alicia Barton, president and CEO, NYSERDA. “Under Gov. Cuomo’s leadership, New Yorkers are leading the way in adoption of new clean energy solutions, and the Geothermal Clean Energy Challenge will help more large energy users to see the potential of switching to clean energy.”

“Geothermal energy can be an ideal, cost-conscious, and clean solution to heating and cooling buildings in New York,” said Gil C. Quiniones, NYPA president and CEO. “NYPA is excited to partner with NYSERDA on this initiative. We look forward to seeing the implementation of clean geothermal systems at many sites throughout the state as this challenge gets underway.”

Publication date: 12/18/2017

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