NYS utility customers encouraged to apply for new incentives

The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) announced that its recently finalized series of energy efficient programs will directly lead to more than $1.4 billion in energy-saving investments over the next five years. The programs are designed to entice homeowners, business owners, commercial building owners and manufacturers to make energy efficiency investments, such as purchasing energy efficient furnaces and energy efficient hot water heaters, and install energy efficient lighting systems. More than $950 million is being made available through 2011 and beyond to accomplish the goal.

As a result of Commission actions, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), as well as the major investor-owned utilities in New York, will provide direct incentives to homeowners and businesses to make energy efficiency improvements. Because most of the programs will require at least a partial customer financial contribution, it's estimated that matching private sector investments over the life of the program will be more than $475 million.

The overall goal of the program is to reduce New Yorkers' electricity usage by 2015, with comparable results in natural gas conservation. In addition to helping lower monthly energy bills, the ratepayer-funded initiative is expected to save enough energy to electrically power about 600,000 average-sized homes annually and enough natural gas to heat about 60,000 average-sized homes annually by 2015.

The funding being made available over a five-year period to electric and gas customers is substantial. NYSERDA will receive the largest share - $441 million through 2011 - to fund customer incentives related to its commercial and residential electric and natural gas energy efficiency programs.

To ensure the greatest customer participation possible, major electric and gas utilities will also offer customer incentives. Utility funding is as follows: Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc., $235.8 million; National Grid (upstate), $147.7 million; National Grid (downstate), $39.9 million; New York State Electric and Gas Corporation, $31.7 million; Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation, $20.1 million; Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation, $19.6 million; Orange and Rockland Utilities Inc., $14.3 million; Corning Natural Gas Corporation, $0.2 million; and St. Lawrence Gas Company, Inc., $0.08 million. For more information about energy efficiency programs, please go to www.askpsc.com.

The program, officially known as the Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard, has been under development since 2007. Its broad and comprehensive success is due to the concerted efforts of more than 200 organizations and individuals who participated in the proceeding as active parties. The initiative is designed to forestall an expected rise in energy consumption and the related need for additional infrastructure investment. This increase, combined with expected fuel price increases and supply uncertainty, and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, made it necessary to create energy efficiency programs and quickly find ways to reduce energy use.

In addition to these efficiency programs, a review of the state's 14-year-old System Benefits Charge (SBC), which provides funding for energy programs targeting efficiency measures, research and development and the low-income sector, is also expected. The current SBC program, which expires June 30, 2011, is currently funded at about $175 million a year. The SBC program has been primarily administered by NYSERDA.

Nearly $21 million approved for solar, anaerobic digesters, fuel cells and small wind projects

The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) has approved approximately $20.9 million in interim funding for the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) program for the period January 1, 2010 through June 30, 2010. The money will fund incentives for solar photovoltaic (solar PV), anaerobic digester, fuel cell and small wind installations under the Customer-Sited Tier (CST) of the RPS program.
In addition to approving the interim funding, the Commission re-authorized the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to solicit new applications for RPS funding, to be allocated as follows: $12 million for solar PV; $6 million for anaerobic digester biogas systems; $1.8 million for fuel cells; $0.3 million for small wind installations; and $0.83 million for program administration, evaluation, measurement and verification.

The Commission noted that the solar PV program poses some unique challenges which need to be addressed as part of any additional commitment for funding. As a result, the Commission will impose conditions on the administration of the solar PV program to include a monthly spending amount of $2 million through June 2010, wherein, no new applications may be accepted in a month when the applications for that month already equal or exceed the available funds. The per-watt incentive for solar PV project will vary monthly as further prescribed by the Commission. The incentive may not exceed $1.75 per watt per month, unless the incentive is too low to attract sufficient applications.

As part of the mid-course review of the RPS program, the Commission in December expanded the RPS goal to increase the proportion of renewable generation to 30 percent of projected electricity consumption by 2015, authorized a renewable resource solicitation of approximately $200 million, provided new funding up to $30 million annually for larger-scale downstate solar PV, anaerobic digester and fuel cell projects to assure a level of geographic balance in the RPS program.

Clean energy CHP and fuel cell technologies now eligible for net metering in NYS

The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) has approved tariff filings of the six investor-owned utilities in New York to encourage the installation of residential micro-combined heat and power (micro-CHP) and fuel cell electric generating systems that will enable homeowners to sell excess power to the utility.

"By encouraging homeowners to install small-scale renewable energy systems, and to allow the excess power to be sold to the utility, will provide long-term benefits to the environment and the economy," said Commission Chairman Garry Brown. "As a result of our decision today, a homeowner can install these newest technologies and receive a credit from the utility for the excess electricity that's been created, or sell it to the utility and pocket the money - the choice is theirs."

The utilities participating in this net metering initiative include Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation, Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc., National Grid, New York State Electric & Gas Corporation, Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc., and Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation. With the Commission's decision, the tariffs that the utilities have filed will be updated to add to the list of eligible technologies than can be net metered.

To further encourage development of net metering opportunities, the Standardized Interconnection Requirements (SIR) for distributed generation units operating in parallel with the electric utility distribution system that both utilities and customers are required to follow was revised to incorporate the net metering modifications for micro-CHP and fuel cell systems.

Under Public Service Law, a residential applicant proposing to install a micro-CHP or a fuel cell electric generating system may not exceed 10 kilowatts, and the installation must be located and used at the applicant's premises. Eligible micro-CHPs are an integrated, co-generating building heating and electrical power generation system, operating on any fuel and of any applicable engine, fuel cell, or other technology, with a rated capacity of at least one kilowatt and not more than 10 kilowatts electric and any thermal output that at full load has a design total fuel use efficiency in the production of heat and electricity of not less than 80 percent, and annually produces at least 2,000 kilowatt hours of useful energy in the form of electricity that may work in combination with supplemental or parallel conventional heating systems.

Eligible fuel cell electric generating equipment are solid oxide, molten carbonate, proton exchange membrane or phosphoric acid fuel cells with a combined rated capacity of not more than 10 kilowatts that is manufactured, installed and operated in accordance with applicable government and industry standards, that is connected to the electric system and operated in parallel with an electric corporation's transmission and distribution facilities.

PSC approves up to $35 million in financing to build biomass plant at Griffiss

New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) has approved up to $35 million in financing to build a 9.6 MW renewable-fueled electric and steam generation facility at Griffiss Business and Technology Park in Rome, Oneida County, to provide lower priced electric and steam service to tenants in the industrial park. The power plant operator, Griffiss Utility Services Corporation, plans to install a biomass-fueled combined heat and power generation facility at the Griffiss Park. The facility is sized to meet electric and steam needs at the Griffiss Park, where it will supply approximately 75 percent of the Park's electric demand and will replace the existing steam boilers, supplanting them as the source for meeting all steam load requirements. The power plant operator will remain interconnected to National Grid to obtain the remaining 25 percent of its electric needs.

Griffiss Utility is a not-for-profit corporation formed in 2000 for the purpose of assisting Griffiss Local Development Corporation (GLDC), the operator of the Griffiss Park, in fulfilling its purpose of promoting economic development in the Rome, New York region.

Griffiss Park, a 3,500-acre complex containing approximately 80 buildings and 29 miles of road, formerly operated as a United States Air Force Base. The closure of most of the base beginning in 1995 adversely affected the local economy in the Rome region. GLDC was created to operate the Griffiss Park at the base in an effort to promote economic activity that would reverse the adverse effects of the closure.

"Great Green Ideas" and young innovators

Applications are still open for "Great Green Ideas That Can Change the World," the largest green science fair in NYS, March 25 at the Center of Progress Building at the NYS Fairgrounds.  SUNY ESF, the Syracuse Chamber, The Clean Tech Center, The Tech Garden, the MDA and Creative Core partners are sponsoring the event, designed to encourage green entrepreneurship.  High school and college students from across  Upstate New York will be vying for cash prizes for ideas based on sustainability and green technology.  They will be part of a Green Innovation Exposition that is expected to draw more than 7,000.  Joining them will be more than 300 businesses who will be taking part in the business expo.

For more information, and to register:  www.esf.edu/outreach/sage, call ESF Outreach:  315-470-6817, or e-mail: mhstefl@esf.edu

SUNY ESF's SAGE (Sustainability and Green Entrepreneurship) project exposes high school students and teachers to people and ideas that demonstrate the green entrepreneurial spirit. Participants become better versed in the science of environmental challenges, entrepreneurial thinking, and the role they can play in meeting these challenges. Environmental innovation is not only a social consciousness issue but an economic one. New advances and innovations can lead to new jobs and business enterprises.

A national study (Battelle Memorial Institute) reported that the Syracuse/Central New York area is seen as a national leader in several sectors of green technology and innovation. The SAGE Project builds upon the region's natural, economic, educational and workforce resources to support the sustainability and green entrepreneurship education and professional development needs of students, teachers, and professionals.

Colleges team up to host business plan competition focusing on renewable energy and sustainable innovations

The College of Nanoscale Science & Engineering (CNSE) at the University at Albany, UAlbany's School of Business, the Lally School of Management and Technology at Rensselaer, and Union Graduate College School of Management plan are hosting a business plan competition focusing on renewable energy and sustainable innovations on April 28, 2010.  Current students from accredited colleges are invited to submit a business plan around a student-born innovation focused on an unmet energy technology need. The top applications will be selected to present at CNSE in the final round. The three best rated teams will earn a prize, with the first place winner receiving $10,000.

The competition will encourage students to fully engage in their research and allow them to gain valuable experience through presenting their business plan to industry executives and investors. By creating multi-disciplinary teams, students from different departments within a college or university can take advantage of this unique experience.  For more information:  http://www.neny.org/competition/2010/home

SUNY Green SNY partners to share $2 million to offer training in clean energy

A consortium composed of Alfred State College, six community colleges, and the Association of Builders and Contractors, are sharing in a $2 million grant from NYSERDA to develop or expand training in solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, wind and geothermal energy technology.  Community college partners include Tompkins Cortland (TC3), Broome, Dutchess, Mohawk Valley, Sullivan and Westchester.  The consortium's goal is The courses are designed for those seeking certification from NYSERDA to become installers.  The SUNY Green SNY partners will work together to train in areas such as design, construction, installation, instrumentation and maintenance.  Partners will develop modules for credit courses that can be integrated into existing programs, which can be used as the foundation for stand-alone courses for professional development, and certification programming as continuing education.

NASA grant enables Clarkson University and NYSERDA to improve climate change education in NYS

Clarkson University recently received a grant from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to improve climate change education for middle and high school students in New York State. Only 15 of 161 proposals submitted were selected nationwide. Clarkson will be working closely with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to develop and disseminate educational modules that utilize NASA’s vast array of data chronicling the changes in climate and earth system functions.

“We are proud to partner with Clarkson and NASA on a project that will help students learn about the implications climate change could have on their future and the steps they can take to mitigate these impacts,” said Francis J. Murray, president and CEO of NYSERDA. “This award adds to NYSERDA’s ongoing work to support teachers statewide seeking to learn new ways to educate students about the critical energy challenges facing New York and the world.”

This summer at Clarkson, earth and environmental science teachers will develop project-based, climate change units for middle and high school classrooms using NASA geospatial data. Following the trial of these lessons in classrooms around the state, a summer institute will be held at Clarkson University in 2011 to train more teachers. The resulting learning experiences will be disseminated through teacher workshops and conferences hosted by NYSERDA’s Energy Smart Students Program.

For more information: www.clarkson.edu

NYS retailers gear up for "Great Appliance Swap Out" starting February 12

Retailers across New York State are gearing up to handle high demand for energy efficient appliances as New York’s "Great Appliance Swap Ou" launches this week, according to NYSERDA. The program, from February 12 through 21, is expected to issue nearly 170,000 rebates totaling $16.8 million to New York State residents who purchase qualified ENERGY STAR appliances during that time period. 

Rebates for high-efficiency refrigerators, clothes washers, and freezers will range from $50-$105 for a single unit and up to $555 for the purchase of a three-appliance package of high-efficiency refrigerators, clothes washers, and dishwashers, provided on a first-come, first served basis. 

The program requires consumers to replace old appliances, and encourages recycling by offering a larger rebate to consumers who recycle their discarded appliances. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is administering the program.

Guidelines for the program:

• Residents only.  Consumers must be New York State residents and the appliance must be installed at a New York State residential address to be eligible for the proposed rebate program.
• Energy Efficiency Requirements.  Appliances can be purchased at any retail location and must meet specified ENERGY STAR or Consortium of Energy Efficiency (CEE) standards.
• Qualifications.  The program is open only to residents of single-family homes and to residents of multi-family buildings who own the existing appliance that is being replaced.
• Process.  After purchasing a qualified appliance, consumers must complete an application form to reserve their rebate.  Customers will print their completed form with rebate reservation number and return it with required documentation; those who fill out forms by phone will have an application mailed to them.  Before purchasing, consumers can check to see if funding is still available at www.NYapplianceSwapout.com or by calling  1-877- NY-SMART (877-697-6278). 
• Finding an application.  Applications may be completed online at www.NYApplianceSwapOut.com or by calling toll-free at 1-877-NY-SMART.  Once the application is verified as complete, it will be processed and payment will be issued.
• Documentation.  Consumers must submit all required documentation with their completed rebate application by March 15, 2010.  For rebates:  Consumers must attest in writing that the purchased appliances are replacing existing appliances.  For recycling bonus:  Documentation must be obtained from the retailer or recycler.  In NYC, a confirmation number obtained through 311 may be used for refrigerator and freezer recycling documentation. 
• Restrictions.  The rebate cannot be combined with other appliance rebate programs from utilities or municipalities. The rebate can, however, be combined with other manufacturer rebates or retail promotions.
• Recycling. Many appliance retail stores will offer to pick up and recycle your old appliance when you purchase a new one from them. In addition, a list of many local recycling centers and transfer stations that will recycle can be found at:  www.NYapplianceSwapout.com.  

Appliances may be purchased at any location.  NYSERDA works with more than 1,000 of retail partners to help promote the sale of ENERGY STAR Products.   Click here for a list of NYSERDA retail partners Upstate.

Syracuse Center of Excellence to open new headquarters

The Syracuse Center of Excellence will be dedicated March 5, a little more than four years after site work began at the former Midtown Plaza, Almond and East Water streets.


On March 6, the public is invited to an open house to check out the latest in energy and building technologies in the five-story, angular structure clad in glass and metal and topped by a vegetative roof. There will be tours, technology demonstrations and entertainment.

The Center of Excellence is a federation of businesses and academic institutions led by Syracuse University to promote “clean and green” economic development. Its headquarters building, designed by architect Toshiko Mori, includes a geothermal heating and cooling system, a rainwater collection system and windows that can be opened if the air quality is deemed sufficiently good.

The $35.6 million building aims for a “platinum” rating under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program administered by the U.S. Green Building Council.
Researchers will rotate into lab space. In the Carrier Total Indoor Environmental Quality lab, or TIEQ, on the fifth floor, factors such as temperature, humidity and air quality can be manipulated in each workstation to measure their effect on human productivity and behavior.

The open house runs from 1 to 4 p.m. March 6. For details on the event and to RSVP, go to syracusecoe.org.

Source:  www.syracuse.com/green

USDA/Rural Development hosts New York State strategy session on rural economy and renewable energy

The New York State office of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development convened ag and business leaders from across Upstate this past week for a strategy session at Hope Lodge at Greek Peak (a USDA-financed project ... see related stories on this blog)  on ways to stimulate the rural economy.  The workshop addressed issues related to access to capital and risk in the current economic climate, and also outlined areas of opportunity -- especially related to renewable energy. 

One particular program that has been of great benefit is the USDA's Renewable Energy for America Program (REAP), which provides grants and loan guarantees to farms and rural small busineses for renewable energy systems, energy efficiency improvements, feasibility studies and energy audits.  The program requires matching funds, and grants are limited to 25 percent of a project's costs.  Loan guarantees can cover up to 75 percent of the project's costs. 

Last year, New York fared well in the competitive program, with grants going to Upstate projects that ranged from solar photovoltaic systems and wind turbines, to innovative aerobic composting systems and energy efficient grain-drying projects.

Further information about USDA Rural Development renewable energy programs, and a list of NYS recipients, is available at :  www.rurdev.usda.gov/ny

New York Biomass Energy Alliance launches

The New York Biomass Energy Alliance has launched.  www.newyorkbiomass.org is a coalition of individuals, businesses, and organizations working together to advance sustainably produced and harvested biomass as a source of renewable energy in the state and the region. The Alliance works to foster biomass energy solutions and includes biomass producers, harvesting and logistics companies, research institutions, and fuel and energy production enterprises.  Sign up for regular updates and NYS biomass industry news at its new website. 

Among the news the group is currently tracking:  The Obama administration last week released final reg's on the revised federal Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS), along with a new report entitled, "Growing America's Fuel" which maps out the administration's biofuels strategy. 

Earthsense releases new report: "Clean Technology Can Empower Us, But Do Consumers Care?"

Syracuse based Earthsense, an applied market research company known for producing Eco-Insights, the largest and most comprehensive survey of consumer attitudes toward green products and services, asked a provocative question this month about clean tech.  "75% of Americans don't have renewable energy on their radar screens.  But if we build it, will they come?"

The answer is:  That depends.  When asked if they had considered buying renewable energy, 42% of Americans said they didn't consider it important, 17% said they evaluated it, but didn't buy it, and another 16% cited economics for declining.  Less than 5% of adults say they have purchased renewable energy in some form, but even those worry about the cost of purchasing expensive systems such as wind or solar arrays without easy-to-understand and simple-to-use incentives.  One promising concept reported in the survey was the use of RECS.  Nearly 32% of American adults said they would be willing to pay a $5 premium per month to purchase energy through renewable sources.  If the government contributed a tax credit or other incentive, that number would jump to nearly 50%.  Higher income households are twice as likely to purchase more RECS, with tax incentives provided. 

Earthsense noted that women are more likely than men to pay a premium for renewables -- a finding that is consistent with earlier Eco-Insights studies that noted that women are more inclined to seek out ways to integrate sustainability into their lifestyle. 

Earthsense presented its most recent findings at The State of Green Business 2010 global conference in San Francisco last week, which was sponsored by Greenbiz.com

Learn more at www.earthsense.com  and www.greenbiz.com

Proposal to raise SBA Express cap to $1 million would provide boost for entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs got a boost this week with a proposal by President Obama to temporarily increase the cap on SBA Express loans from $350,000 to $1 million, which would expand the program’s ability to help a broad range of small businesses through a streamlined approval process. Unlike traditional 7(a) SBA loans, lenders can use their own paperwork for SBA Express loans, which can be structured as revolving lines of credit. Currently, these Express loans are capped at $350,000 and carry a 50 percent guarantee. 

Other elements of the small business agenda proposed this week include: 

• Extending small business expensing and bonus depreciation for 2010
• Eliminating capital gains taxes for small businesses in 2010
• A Small Business Jobs and Wages Tax Credit that would cut taxes for more than 1 million small businesses by paying up to $5,000 for every net new job and covers payroll taxes on overall wage increases in excess of inflation
• A proposal to transfer, through legislation, $30 billion to a new Small Business Lending Fund that will support lending by community and smaller banks
• Additional SBA lending proposals, including an extension of the Recovery Act programs that eliminate fees and raise guarantees on SBA’s two largest loan programs and permanent increases in the maximum loan sizes for major SBA programs

 For more information:  http://www.sba.gov/idc/groups/public/documents/sba_homepage/sba_rcvry_factsheet_cre_refi.pdf

Plug Power hits milestones

Upstate New York based Plug Power Inc. (Nasdaq:PLUG), a leader in providing clean, reliable energy solutions just released a report noting progress toward milestones.  According to the report, Plug Power successfully implemented its GenDrive™ fuel cell power units into material handling applications during 2009. Plug Power’s GenDrive solution offers customers an environmentally-conscious alternative to lead-acid batteries as a power source for electric lift trucks, allowing for increased productivity and lowered lifetime operational costs of the operation.

The report also noted that Plug Power also saw success in India during 2009, selling 200 prime power GenSys® units to Wireless TT Info Services Limited (WTTIL), the tower arm of Tata Teleservices Limited (TTSL). Additionally, Plug Power and SFO Technologies signed a five-year manufacturing and supply agreement for the build of Plug Power’s GenSys systems in India.

“Plug Power saw strong market traction in both the material handling and remote prime power markets during 2009. Businesses implemented our solutions to benefit their operations and allow for sustainability targets to be met,” said Plug Power’s CEO, Andy Marsh. “Plug Power remains focused on completing current negotiations with customers. At the same time, we expect to see sales momentum continue to build in 2010 as the value proposition of our GenDrive and GenSys products become more evident in their market spaces.”

About Plug Power Inc.
Plug Power Inc. (Nasdaq:PLUG), an established leader in the development and deployment of clean, reliable energy solutions, integrates fuel cell technology into motive and continuous power products. The Company is actively engaged with private and public customers in targeted markets throughout the world. For more information:  please visit www.plugpower.com

Tech Garden president launches new venture

Nasir Ali who has led the Syracuse-based Tech Garden announced today that he will be teaming up with Martin Babinec, founder and board member of San Leandro, CA based TriNet HR Corporation, to launch a new venture called Upstate Venture Connect www.upstateventureconnect.org based at The Tech Garden.  (See related story about Upstate Venture Connect on this new blog.)

“My time in Upstate New York has convinced me of the potential this region has for regaining its central place in the national and global economy. A critical factor for our future success is having a mechanism that connects Upstate’s innovation assets and entrepreneurial drive to individuals and institutions that are willing to accelerate their success,” said Ali, who moved to this region from the Washington, DC area five years ago. “The opportunity to work with Martin on unlocking Upstate’s potential is one I could not pass up,” he added. Upstate Venture Connect will be based at the Syracuse Technology Garden incubator. Ali will continue to lead the Seed Capital Fund of Central New York, a private investment fund he launched in 2007 (www.scfcny.com).

Martin Babinec moved his family back to his hometown of Little Falls, NY ten years ago from the San Francisco Bay Area. Babinec founded TriNet in 1988, and until recently commuted regularly from Little Falls to Silicon Valley. He stepped down from his position as CEO in May 2008 and recently relinquished his responsibilities as chairman of TriNet to focus his efforts on creating Upstate Venture Connect. “Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to get to know world class entrepreneurs across Upstate and many of the talented individuals who are working hard to help them succeed. There are thousands of successful people outside the region with the capacity and the desire to help Upstate entrepreneurs. Making those connections happen is the central focus of Upstate Venture Connect.”

Clean Energy Week: NYS and clean energy business development

It's Clean Energy Week, and if there is a state that is a clean energy leader, it would have to be NYS.  With one of the most aggressive Renewable Portfolio Standards in the country, and a strategic clean energy business development focus, New York is a global clean tech leader.  From start-up to commercialization, to growth, NYSERDA provides a continuum of services to support clean energy business development.  A recently published brochure highlights support programs.  Learn more at: 
www.nyserda.org/businessdevelopment  and download the brochure at:  http://www.powernaturally.org/publications/CleanEnergyBrochfinal.pdf

This is "Clean Energy Week"

Nearly 100 organizations in the renewable energy, energy efficiency and environmental arenas are joining forces to turn February 1-5, 2010, into Clean Energy Week.  The week is focused on the national imperative to enact comprehensive clean energy policy – including climate solutions, renewable energy and energy efficiency programs – as a means of creating new jobs, ensuring U.S. global leadership in the emerging clean energy era, enhancing security and preserving our planet for the generations to follow.  The groups are supporting legislation recently adopted by the U.S. House of Representatives, the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES), which could create up to 1.9 million jobs between its enactment and 2020. Details on Clean Energy Week are on the CEW website at www.cleanenergyweek.org.

In conjunction with the week, The New York Solar Energy Society is hosting a February 4 summit at the Cooper Union in NYC: "Policy to Make New York a Clean Energy Capital"  -- Read more about that event at:  www.nyses.org 

NYS Solar Energy Industries Association proposes plan for solar electric incentives

New York Solar Energy Industries Association (NYSEIA) this week proposed a long-term solar electric incentive plan to help New York achieve its clean energy goals at the lowest cost to utility ratepayers.  NYSEIA is advocating an expansion of the current state plan funded through the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) and the group is continuing to endorse a Solar PV roadmap developed by its stakeholders in 2006 that called for 2000MW of solar electric generation in the state over a 10 year period. 

 

Among the recommendations in NYSEIA's platform:

• New programs should complement existing programs funded through the RPS, be performance based and designed to continue past the scheduled expiration of the RPS.
• Municipalities and not for profits should benefit from an incentive structure that places them on equal footing with the private sector.
• Utilities should be allowed to own “green attributes” or Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECS),  for the solar power they buy.
• Legislation should be created to result in feed-in tariffs (FiT), government policies that require utilities to purchase electricity produced by renewable generators, for a guaranteed 20 years with “must sell”/”must take” provisions for generators and utilities, respectively. 
• The Customer-Sited Tier (CST) funding in the RPS should be expanded to a fixed value of $50 million for each of the remaining years in the RPS and a funding mechanism should be developed for after it ends.

 The New York Solar Energy Industries Association is the only statewide non-profit membership and trade association dedicated solely to advancing solar energy use in New York State. For information, visit http://www.nyseia.org

 

Read a press release with all the recommendations:  http://nyseia.org/posts/nyseia-proposes-long-term-solar-electric-incentive-plan-18.ph

G.E. tops list of world's most sustainable large corporations

G.E. led 100 of the world’s most sustainable large corporations based on productivity in energy, carbon, water and waste, based on an annual global ranking released this week by Canadian magazine Corporate Knights.  G.E. Global Research is based in Upstate NY.  (See related story below about new global R&D headquarter building which opened this week in Schnectady, NY)  The company topped the list which includes companies from 24 countries with a combined value of $4 trillion and three million employees.  Companies were chosen based on key performance indicators that measured productivity in the areas of energy consumption, carbon dioxide emissions, water use, waste disposal and sustainability leadership.

G.E. to house its renewable energy businesses in new $45 million headquarters in Upstate NY

G.E. this week unveiled its new $45 million renewable energy global headquarters in Schenectady, NY.  The new HQ building, which opened yesterday, will meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, and will also exceed New York’s building standards on energy efficiency by 20 percent.

Among the amenities are enhanced energy management and conservation features, energy efficient hot water boilers and HVAC system, water conservation fixtures, bike racks and preferred parking for hybrid vehicles.  A 48-kilowatt G.E. solar energy system installed nearby helps power the building. A four-story atrium houses a scale model wind turbine and interactive displays that feature G.E.’s renewable energy technologies.  A state-of-the-art remote operations center will provide continuous monitoring and diagnostic services for an installed base of wind turbines and solar power electronics. 

The establishment of G.E.'s Renewable Energy Global Headquarters also spurred the creation of more than 650 new jobs in Schenectady, 150 more than originally anticipated and a year ahead of schedule. 

“The dedication of our new, state-of-the-art global headquarters represents our ongoing mission to provide renewable energy solutions that will help meet both the world’s energy and environmental needs,” said Victor Abate, vice president, renewable energy for G.E. Power & Water.

The event on Monday also marked the installation of the company’s 13,500th wind turbine globally. G.E. is the largest supplier of wind turbines in North America, with its 1.5-megawatt turbine the most widely used in the world. With this latest installation, the company’s global installed fleet now generates enough renewable energy to power nearly 6 million homes. G.E. Energy is one of the world’s leading suppliers of power generation and energy delivery technologies, reported revenues of $37 billion in 2009.
Source:  Press reports

Reserve now for the largest green business expo in the Northeast

300 companies ... more than 7,500 attendees ... reserve your space now for the largest green business expo in the Northeast

The Syracuse Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications to be part of the most exciting green expo in the Northeast, to be held at the NYS Fairgrounds on March 25, 2010.  It's a tremendous opportunity to gain visibility in the dynamic green and sustainable sector, and make B-to-B connections.  Reservations are open only for the first 300 companies, so reserve early for the best placement.

The targeted audience includes business owners and managers, influential decision-makers, buyers and potential strategic partners.  Connect with other green companies,  learn more about green and clean technologies, reach new customers, and build new business relationships.  It's an opportunity to get in front of a big audience in a region that is blossoming with new green products and services.  Learn more at:  www.syracusechambershow.com

Reserve your booth now:  http://www.syracusechambershow.com/Register.tab.aspx

Great green ideas that can change the world: A student innovation exposition

SUNY ESF's Sustainability and Green Entrepreneurship (SAGE) program, The Clean Tech Center and New York's Creative Core are hosting the first ever high school and college green science fair on March 25 at the New York State Fairgrounds.  Aspiring young green entrepreneurs from across Upstate are invited to pitch their great green ideas at an "innovation exposition" that is part of the annual Syracuse Chamber of Commerce Business Show and Green Expo.  Prizes will be awarded for "best peer reviewed business concept" and "best in show" as judged by a panel of experts.  For more information and to register:  www.esf.edu/outreach/sage or e-mail to learn more.

"A Different Shade of Green" is new green jobs program for veterans

A new program by Cornell University Cooperative Extension, NYS Department of Labor, CNY Works and Onondaga Community College kicks off this month, designed to provide green job training and career development for military veterans and their spouses, and empowering them to lead New York's transition to energy independence.  The program, called "A Different Shade of Green," includes a ten-week training sessions, followed by field training programs.  Participants will receive basic training in areas such as environmental technology, renewable energy and other green sectors.  The first sessions start this week, with new sessions scheduled to start throughout 2010.  For more information:  Cornell Cooperative Extension - green jobs.

eCUSE launches this month

eCUSE -- The Environmental Collaborative for Urban Sustainable Employment -- launches this month, supported by a $3.7 million US Department of Labor grant.  The project, which builds on the efforts of two collaborative groups, Journey to Jobs and Greater Syracuse Works, is one of a small select group to be funded nationally.  It will build on the capacity of a coalition of partner organizations committed to increasing employment options in green technology for targeted workers living in the Syracuse urban center.  In addition, the initiative will develop a pipeline of talent for Syracuse's burgeoning green industries. The goal of the program is to serve 1,000 prospective workers through interdisciplinary teams, working in partnership with neighborhood organizations.  More information on the eCUSE Initiative is available at:  CNY Works.

NYS has new economic development website

Empire State Development (ESD) today announced the launch of its new website, www.esd.ny.gov, reorganized to streamline access to information to better serve NYS businesses.  This is the first major redesign of the site in several years.  The stylish new site features:

• An “About Us” section featuring historical, corporate, and senior staff information.
• A “Why New York” section featuring up-to-date information on the hightech
• economy and the State’s industry clusters.
• A comprehensive “Business Programs” section listing information on ESD’s incentive,
• grant and loan programs.
• Updated International, Minority & Women Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE)and Small Business sections.
• New regional office pages which include geospecific resources and information.
• A more indepth “Press Center” section for a full list of ESD press releases and
• information on ESD’s speaker bureau, as well as access to social media tools.

Connecting entrepreneurs with resources needed to grow the clean energy economy

Green resources are one click away ...

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) today recognized The Clean Tech Center for its publication of the first comprehensive directory connecting clean technology companies with resources in Upstate New York. The guide lists numerous entities working collaboratively to help develop, grow, and retain clean tech companies, including university and academic research programs, specialized facilities, support organizations, and funding programs.

“While Upstate New York has been emerging as a vibrant hub of clean energy businesses, until now there has been no full accounting of all the resources available in this growing field,” said Francis J. Murray Jr., President and CEO of NYSERDA. “This guide will serve as an essential tool to help connect the extraordinary wealth of talent in Central New York with investors and support systems to help them build the clean energy economy envisioned by Governor David Paterson.”

“Entrepreneurs in Central Upstate New York are fortunate to be able to work shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the world’s top experts in renewable and clean energy sectors, right here in this region,” said Linda Hartsock, Executive Director of The Clean Tech Center. “The resource guide demonstrates that this region has built a well-connected infrastructure and working partnership to support green innovation. NYSERDA is the catalyst for building an innovation ecosystem across New York State, connecting clusters of entrepreneurial activity through its new clean energy incubator program. NYSERDA is truly the model for strategic green business development.”

Created with support from NYSERDA, the 61-page Clean Tech Asset Guide is a ‘one-stop’ directory with listings of assets including research and development resources, business development resources, funding programs, and market leaders, including associations and organizations.

Collaborators with The Clean Tech Center include leading New York State colleges and universities, investors, utilities, technology and industry associations, and government agencies that are included in the resource guide.

The guide is available as a link on The Clean Tech Center's main page:  www.thecleantechcenter.com
Visit NYSERDA at:  www.nyserda.org

Warner Energy announces plans to build solar farm

Syracuse area based Warner Energy has announced plans to build a 320 solar panel farm at its corporate headquarters.  The renewable energy development company is developing a next generation, high-efficiency solar panel technology that it intends to manufacture and produce. 

This project will include solar panels that are 55-inches long by 27-inches wide, and less than a quarter-inch thick, stacked on eight steel platforms.  Each platform will hold 40 panels  and they will 6,630 square feet.
Warner expects to generate roughly 19,000 kilowatt hours annually, all of which will be used at the company's headquarters.  According to news reports, the company will also use the project as a sales tool, and intends to begin selling and marketing solar farms by late spring 2010.

Warner Energy was featured at a recent visit by Governor David Paterson’s to SUNY ESF in Syracuse to announce NYPA's 100 MW solar initiative.  Paterson mentioned Warner Energy as a new solar company and showcased its products.

Unfettering New York State's Innovation Economy

The Public Policy Institute this week released a new report, "Transcending the Hamster Cage."  Weird name (it's explained inside).  Interesting publication.  The document sets out to explore and solve a challenge:  "The key to unlocking the innovation economy is talented, driven and risk favorable people.  Motivation, inspiration and the capacity to dream, and to act on those dreams, are the greatest assets in the global innovation competition."

Guided by New York State academic and industry leaders, economic developers and entrepreneurs, it includes chapters on:

• Human capital -- creating a critical mass of talent
  
• Business climate -- developing regional innovation clusters
  
• Economic development -- policies and investments that emphasize innovation
  
• Tax policy -- enhanced incentives for R&D
  
• Energy -- encouraging the development and commercialization of green technologies
  
• Sector-based development -- strengthening key sectors such as bio-pharma and biotechnology
  

The theme of the report is creating an "innovation culture" that facilitates the creation of ideas that can be translated into new products and services. "The only path to sustainable growth is through innovation," writes Linda Sanford, IBM, a contributor to the report.  "Today's global economy rewards the innovators who can deliver unique value that cannot be easily replicated.  Creating a climate that consistently produces new ideas and advances intellectual property effectively to the marketplace is the best way to remain competitive in the innovation economy."

Download the report here.

NYS companies demonstrating innovative technologies for sustainable, energy-efficient manufacturing

Four New York companies will share $610,315 in grants from NYSERDA to develop and demonstrate innovative technologies for more sustainable and energy efficient manufacturing.

The four projects announced this week for funding are:

• Excelerant Ceramics (Alfred) -- $60,325 to develop a product that will reduce the energy and costs of producing hydrogen gas for industrial processes such as fuel cell production, oil refining, ammonia production and others. Excelerant will work with Alfred University and Ceralink, Troy on this project.
• United Environment and Energy, LLC (Horseheads) -- $74,990 to develop a technology to produce asphalt using renewable and recycled waste products instead of heavy petroleum and gravel to achieve significant reductions in energy, CO2 emissions and raw materials costs.
• August Ninth Analyses, Inc. (Scarsdale) -- $75,000 to conduct a feasibility study for “Thinktroller,” a software and hardware system that mimics human sensory capabilities for use in a broad range of mixing, milling and blending applications of chemicals, food, plastics, metals, and other products.  The project will optimize processes, reduce load, and shift the process so that it occurs during off-peak electric demand periods.
• Inland Paper Products Corp. (Brooklyn) -- $400,000 to purchase and install a hybrid ultra-violet/electron-beam (UV/EB) system for drying printed thin-film paper products as they exit a printing press. This process is expected to save 75-90% of thermal operation costs.

15 proposals were selected for funding in the first-round of PON 1276.  Together, they will $3.2 million to develop product and process innovation related to energy-efficient boilers and blowers, plastics and ceramics development, use of lasers and radio waves for coating, curing, and lamination, molding and casting production, and waste heat recovery in large food processing plants.

Companies funded in the first round of awards include:

• Automated Dynamics (Schenectady) --$396,146
• Aymont Technology, Inc., (Ballston Spa) -- $75,000
• Ceralink, Inc. (Troy, Rochester, Highland) -- $399,154
• CSL Materials LLC, (Alfred) --$49,635
• CVD Equipment Corp. (Ronkonkoma) --$400,000
• Evident Technology, Inc. (Troy) -- $75,000
• Frito-Lay, Inc. (Binghamton)-- $400,000
• The Fulton Companies (Pulaski) -- $75,000
• IBA Industrial, Inc. (Edgewood) -- $119,262
• Mohawk Innovative Technology, Inc. (Albany) --$74,491
• MPI, Inc, Poughkeepsie, (Troy) -- $75,000
• Novomer (Ithaca) -- $400,000
• Sono-Tek Corporation (Milton, Troy) --$74,491
• Strathmore Products, Inc. (Syracuse) -- $73,690
• Transparent Materials (Rochester) -- $221,533

NYSERDA releases guide to developing renewable and sustainable biomass energy projects

NYSERDA today released a guidebook to faciltate biomass projects that will help the State meet its clean energy and environmental goals.  The guidebook was produced in conjunction with the Pace Energy and Climate Center to help with siting small-scale biomass-to-electricity projects in the state.

The guidebook focuses on three biomass technologies: 

• Anaerobic digester gas-to-electricity (ADG), a proven technology that is helping dairy farmers, wastewater treatment plants, and the food industry reduce operating costs, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigate odors by converting gases that are produced from organic waste into electricity.
• Biomass combustion technology, which uses biomass as a fuel source for generating electricity, either by itself or in conjunction with fossil fuels. 
• Biomass gasification transforms solid biomass into a combustible gas to generate electricity in a way that significantly increases efficiency and dramatically decreases emissions.

Large utility-scale versions of biomass combustion technologies are currently deployed at five facilities in Upstate New York:  Niagara Generating Facility (Niagara County); AES Greenidge, LLC (Yates County); Boralex Chateaugay Biomass Plant (Franklin County); Lyonsdale Biomass (Lewis County); and Onondaga Renewables LLC (Ononodaga County), which is the first direct combustion biomass facility in the state. These facilities are expected to deliver nearly 760,000 megawatt hours -- enough renewable energy to supply approximately 112,000 average homes with electricity.

NYSERDA has been working to increase the use of highly efficient gasification units and also recently invested in three companies to manufacture these products in Upstate New York: Alternative Fuel Boilers (Dunkirk), $555,000; Advanced Climate Technologies (ACT) (Schenectady), $642,000; and Thermocontrol Systems (Cobleskill), $258,000.

For all three biomass technologies, the Guidebook underscores the importance of incorporating combined heat and power (CHP) technologies to make biomass projects more efficient and economically viable. The Guidebook is available on NYSERDA’s renewables website, www.powernaturally.org.

NYS releases RFP for 100MW of new PV: Solar developers invited to create large scale "community solar" projects

Governor David A. Paterson and NYPA CEO Richard M Kessel came to SUNY ESF in Syracuse today to announce an initiative that will more than quintuple the amount of solar energy currently produced in New York State. The New York Power Authority (NYPA) issued a request for proposals (RFP) seeking a public-private partnership for the installation of up to 100 MW of photovoltaic systems across the State.

The project will encompass both roof-mounted and ground-mounted solar arrays.  Targeted facilities are schools, public universities and colleges, State and local government facilities, municipal electric utilities and rural electric cooperatives. When fully installed, this project will be the largest solar initiative in State history and will generate the equivalent of powering approximately 15,000 homes. It is estimated that will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 45,000 tons per year.

The initiative is also expected to help develop large scale "community solar" projects to connect to the distribution systems of municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives.  These kinds of projects can provide to electric grids nearing capacity, and can also help alleviate the need for capital-intensive facility upgrades.

The Power Authority is now soliciting proposals from developers to install, own and operate PV arrays, and to sell all the energy and environmental attributes to NYPA subject to a 20-year power purchase agreement. NYPA will then enter into contracts with the project site hosts for the distribution of green power. It is anticipated that the installation of some of these projects could begin 2010 and be completed by the end of 2014.

The RFP calls for bids related to four separate categories and five separate regions. Bidders can submit proposals for one or more regions in one or more categories. The categories include:  government facilities, including public colleges and universities; public and private K-12 schools; and parking lot canopies at any governmental, educational facilities and facilities in the municipal and rural cooperative territories. The regions are Western New York, Northern New York, Central New York, Southeast New York and New York City. The deadline for RFP responses is April 9. Recommendations for an award are expected to be made at the September meeting of NYPA's Board of Trustees.

For more info, or to register for more information on the program:
www.nypa.gov/solar/100mw or www.nypasolarrfp.org 

Read the Syracuse Post Standard story about the announcement at SUNY ESF.

NYPA provides low-cost electricity to governmental agencies, municipal electric systems, manufacturers and to investor-owned utilities for resale without profit.  It operates 18 generating facilities across the state.  It is considered a national leader in the field of energy services, clean and renewable energy technologies, and the promotion of energy efficience, and has committed more than $100 million per year to energy services with cumulative investments of more than $1.1 billion since the program's inception.

Tech Garden launches Student Sandbox as national model for launching student enterprises

The Syracuse-based Tech Garden has launched an innovative Student Sandbox program designed to become a national model for capturing talent and launching new enterprises by the best and brightest students at world-class regional colleges and universities. The goal of the program is to identify student entrepreneurs and provide them with a structured assistance program to nurture new business ideas under the supervision of business and community leaders, along with seasoned entrepreneurs who are committed to retaining talent in Upstate New York. Studies show that 84% of incubated businesses remain within the region where they were incubated. The represents an enormous pipeline in the Central Upstate New York region which boasts 38 colleges and universities and 138,000 students.

The Sandbox’s objective is to accelerate the process of ideation, development and deployment through mentoring and coaching, with an end-goal of producing student businesses capable of seeking growth capital from angel, venture or traditional financial sources. The project is a collaboration between The Tech Garden, and Kaufmann Foundation Enitiative schools (Syracuse University, LeMoyne College, Cayuga Community College, Onondaga Community College, Morrisville State College and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry). Student teams from each of the Enitiative Schools are eligible to apply.  E-mail for more information.

Silicon Valley entrepreneur launches outreach and resource startup to accelerate entrepreneurship in Upstate New York

 Veteran Silicon Valley entrepreneur and Little Falls, NY resident Martin Babinec announced today the launch of Upstate Venture Connect, a not for profit corporation designed to create entrepreneurial momentum in Upstate NY by generating a large number of smaller, innovation oriented companies.

Upstate Venture Connect (UVC) is being built on the premise of increasing collaboration between existing institutions, resources and the region’s world class human assets. The organization will strengthen partnerships between Upstate higher education institutions and community based entrepreneur support programs. It will also embark on focused outreach to connect college alumni and émigrés with those seeking to build new companies Upstate. A key element of this effort is Vconnect, a highly interactive web-based platform to create a mega community committed to growing private capital backed businesses across the Upstate region. An informational website is now active at http://www.upstateventureconnect.org

Babinec was CEO of TriNet, a Silicon Valley company he founded in 1988, and moved his family back to his Upstate hometown of Little Falls in 1999, spending the next ten years commuting from Upstate to Silicon Valley while still running TriNet. He has been recognized as a recipient of the Silicon Valley Entrepreneur of the Year Award and is well known in emerging technology and venture capital circles throughout the country. His vision for creating a platform for dynamic collaboration in Upstate was first laid out in a keynote speech Babinec delivered at the Fall 2007 “I Live New York” conference in Cortland, NY. Over the following 18 months, he gathered input from both private and public sector resources, and built an advisory board representing incubation experts, investors and early stage entrepreneurs from Albany, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Ithaca.

“I am invigorated by the challenge that lays ahead in building a substantial organization,” said Babinec.

PSC approves National Grid's economic development plan which includes a new renewable energy development initiative

The New York State Public Service Commission has approved  a $9 million economic development plan by National Grid, which will include a new renewable energy development initiative to stimulate the development of renewable technologies.  Under the new initiative, National Grid will be able to make matching grants of up to $750,000 to customers that can demonstrate that the installation of alternative generation technologies will produce economic development gains.  Eligible technologies through the new program will include solar, photovoltaic, thermal, biofuels and anaerobic digestion.  A project must also advance the development of "green energy" technologies.

National Grid will also expand its successful Capital Investment Incentive (CH) program to more small businesses.  The program allows National Grid to assist customers with upgrading energy infrastructure to make an expansion or to attract a new company.  National Grid will now be able to expand eligibility to csutomers sized from 100kW to 500kW.  Previously, only 500 kW + customers could participate in the program.

For more information:  www.dps.state.ny.us

How to BUILD Green in 2010: Tips from the DEC

Building products made from recycled materials reduce solid waste problems, cut energy consumption in manufacturing and save on natural resource use.
Use renewable energy, passive-solar heating, daylight and natural cooling where possible.
Interior space can be optimized through careful design so that the overall building size and the resources to construct and operate it are kept to a minimum.
Low-maintenance, water-efficient landscaping saves precious water resources and lowers the need for pesticide use.
Design for future reuse and adaptability. Choose materials and components that can be reused or recycled.

Gray water from sinks and showers or clothes washers can be recycled for irrigation in some areas.
Renovate older buildings. Conscientiously renovating existing buildings is the most sustainable construction.
Energy efficient building is the way to go. Use high levels of insulation, high-performance windows and tight construction. Install high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment, high-efficiency lights and appliances, water-efficient equipment and mechanical ventilation equipment.
Existing vegetation can be used to shade buildings and reduce energy consumption. Trees on the east and west sides of a building can dramatically reduce cooling loads. Hedge rows and shrubbery can block cold winter winds or help channel cool summer breezes into buildings.
Natural resources can be saved by using salvaged materials where possible. Examples include lumber, millwork, certain plumbing and hardware. Make sure these materials are safe (test for lead paint and asbestos).

For more info or DEC publications on energy and the environment:  www.dec.ny.gov

Green confidence index

http://greenbiz.com/greenconfidence

What's in the cards for 2010 when it comes to the green economy?  The Green Confidence Index (GCI), produced by GreenBiz.com, Earthsense, and Survey Sampling International (SSI) offers a monthly metric.  Produced by Syracuse-based Earthsense, it's the first marketplace survey to focus specifically on environmental beliefs and behaviors, providing ongoing, real-time analysis of the evolving green economy.  The Green Confidence Index utilizes index scores, tracking changes in marketplace perceptions, and highlighting shifts in market confidence as bellwethers of future intentions.  It’s the only such study conducted monthly to provide an ongoing, real-time gauge of the evolving green economy.

View a sample issue at: http://greenbiz.com/gci/issue/28290
Subscribe at:   http://greenbiz.com/greenconfidence