Ultralife selects WindTamer for its energy storage system demonstration project

Arista Power's WindTamer wind turbine has been selected by the Ultralife Corporation to be the wind component for a 1 megawatt-hour energy storage system demonstration project at Ultralife's corporate campus in Newark, New York. The demonstration project is funded by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and will integrate lithium ion batteries, ultra capacitors, wind and solar technologies. Ultralife's system is designed to provide energy utilities and renewable energy generators with an intelligent way to manage energy for consumption or storage.

The WindTamer uses diffuser augmented wind turbine technologies to maximize energy production while reducing the noise/vibration associated with the operation of traditional horizontal axis wind turbines.

For more information visit http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/windtamer-selected-to-participate-in-nyserda-funded-large-scale-renewable-energy-storage-system-prototype-121992673.html.

NYSERDA seeks proposals for deep energy retrofit solutions

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has released a program opportunity notice (PON) for teams composed of building material manufacturers, building science professionals and building contractors to develop, investigate and implement design strategies to provide deep energy retrofit solutions to existing residential building envelopes.  NYSERDA is seeking a strategy that provides an exterior air barrier, has insulating properties, addresses window and door opening details, accepts or includes a finished cladding material and be capable of being fastened to the exterior of a residential building.  

The proposals, which are due by July 13, will be selected on the applicant's ability to illustrate their team's understanding of the problem, suggest solutions and provide detailed descriptions of how field trials will be conducted.

For more information about the notice, including application instructions visit http://www.nyserda.org/funding/2254pon.asp.

Gotham Gazette aims to bring attention to PlaNYC2030

Four years after the ambitious release of New York City's ambitious long-term sustainability plan, PlanNYC2030, the public has seemed to have lost interest. After last month's release of the four-year progress report, the media has reported on very little of the plans content.

Troubled by the lack of media coverage, Hunter College and the Gotham Gazette has teamed up to provide the public with information about the plan. The new service, titled the Sustainability Watch, will compile articles written by climate activists, policy experts and scholars. The Sustainability Watch will appear in the Gotham Gazette in the coming weeks.

The Gotham Gazette can be accessed online here.

A group of SU students win first place at the New York State Business Plan Competition

A group of students from Syracuse University won first place in the New York State Business Plan Competition at the University of Albany's College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering.

The students have developed the company "Helios" to commercialize an ultraviolet engineering technology to be used for the sterilization of medical tools/equipment. The competition provided Helios with a total of $50,000 to bring their technology to the market.

Helios was not the only group of Syracuse University students to win the competition. Broodr.com, an aggregated marketplace for unique products, designs and inventions, walked away from the competition with $10,000 in funding.

For more information, including other winners visit http://blog.timesunion.com/business/su-students-win-biz-plan-competition-at-nanocollege/23541/.

NYSERDA aids SUNY ESF in the establishment of a new research, development and testing center

NYSERDA and SUNY ESF have announced the establishment of a new research, development and industrial testing center to make manufacturing processes in New York State more energy efficient, environmentally friendly and economical.

The facility, named The Ultraviolet Light (UV) and Electron Beam (EB) Process Curing Systems Technology Center, will be located on SUNY ESF’s campus. The center will help develop formulas to  reduce the harmful emissions associated with the manufacture/application of inks, paints and coatings. The facility will also aid in the development of resin binders used in the fabrication of composites such as fiberglass.


For more information visit http://www.esf.edu/communications/view.asp?newsID=924.

SUNY Potsdam recognized for their efforts in sustainabily

SUNY Potsdam has been recognized for their ongoing efforts in environmental sustainability in the recently released "Princeton Review's Guide to 311 Green Colleges: 2011 edition". The University's sustainability and operations coordinator, Richard Mattimore, attributes the ranking to a variety of initiatives taken by Potsdam Auxiliary and College Educational Services.

Potsdam's food service, PACES, supports local farmers while reducing carbon emissions by purchasing more than $300,000 worth of local produce. In addition, PACES converts all of its used fry oil to biodiesel fuel, composts, recycles and has introduced reusable food containers in its dining halls.

Mr. Mattimore gives additional credit to the University's student environmental club, the Middle Ground, for their efforts in educating the community about environmental problems.

For more information visit http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/article/20110503/NEWS05/305039995.

NYSERDA invests $20 million for 19 combined heat and power projects

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has announced that they will invest $20 million in 19 combined heat and power generation projects throughout the state. Combined heat and power, also known as co-generation, is a method of combusting fuel on-site for energy generation while utilizing excess exhaust for heating. The $20 million will provide customers with up to 50% (or $2 million) of the total costs involved with buying/installing combined heat and power and is expected to leverage $68 million in private investments.

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse is among the 19 recipients and has received $963,000 for a 275 kW biomass turbine as well as a 195 kW gas-fired engine.

For more information (including a complete list of recipients) visit http://www.nyserda.org/Press_Releases/2011/PressReleas20110421.asp.

NYSERDA extends the popular Customer-Sited Wind Turbine Incentive Program

After receiving a record number of applications, The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has added an additional $1.4 million to the Customer-Sited Wind Turbine Incentive Program. In addition to the new funds, NYSERDA has announced a 6 month extension to the program.

The Customer-Sited Wind Turbine Incentive Program provides qualified property owners with approximately 30% of costs associated wind the purchase and installation of wind turbines. Since its origins in 2008, the program has provided $3.6 million in incentives, leveraging an additional $5.2 million in private investment. To date, all of the turbines installed to date generate more than 1.7 megawatt-hours annually, saving participants more than $240,000 in energy costs each year.

To find out if your area has sufficient wind speeds for an on-site turbine refer to NYSERDA’s interactive “New York State Small windExplorer” map at http://nyswe.awstruepower.com/.

For more information on the program visit http://www.nyserda.org/funding/2097pon.asp.

The New York Solar Industry Development and Jobs Act of 2011

The New York State Assembly has approved the New York Solar Industry Development and Jobs Act of 2011, a bill that has the potential to make New York State a leader in Solar energy and create tens of thousands of high quality jobs within the state. The bill, which awaits legislative approval, lays a framework for long-term solar market growth and job creation.

If passed, the bill would develop 5,000 MW of solar photovoltaics, create 22,000 new jobs, generate a $20 billion boost in wages and economic output and dramatically reduce New York's emissions of greenhouse gasses.

For more information visit http://nyseia.org/posts/nyseia-applauds-assembly-energy-committee-passage-of-solar-jobs-and-development-act-64.php.

St. Joseph's Health Center recieves $712,500 for the construction of a new green roof

The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation has granted Syracuse, New York's St. Joseph's Health Center $712,500 through the Green Innovation Grant Program. The funding, which comes from the Green Innovation Grant program will be used to construct a green roof on the new emergency services building. The green roof will move St. Josephs a step closer towards becoming Central New York's first LEED certified health care institution.

A total of 39,500 square-feet, St. Josephs green roof will be the biggest of its kind on any health care facility in New York State. The roof is expected to divert more than 550,000 gallons of storm water from going into the municipal storm sewer, while providing superior insulation.

For more information visit http://www.nysefc.org/GreenGrants/GIGPProjects/StJosephsHospitalHealthCenter.aspx.

Senator Gillibrand advocates for a federal tax credit to cataylze wind production in NYS

New York Senator, Kirsten Gillibrand is putting pressure on the federal government to approve an investment tax credit to manufacture wind turbines in vacant automobile plants in Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo and Ogdensburg. The tax credit would allow for the D'Arcinoff Group to operate four plants in New York, creating as many as 15,000 jobs.

The D'Arcinoff Group has its sights on establishing 15 manufacturing plants throughout the country specializing in the production of wind turbines, water electrolysis, solar thermal and other alternative energy technologies.

For more information visit http://www.nawindpower.com/naw/e107_plugins/content/content.php?content.7684.

General Electric grants Clarkson University $1 million for Smart Grid research

General Electric has granted Clarkson University $1 Million to support 11 graduate students conduct collaborative research on GE's Smart Grid Technology. The grant, which lasts two years, has the goal of advancing research on a self-monitoring/self-regulating network of electric power while simultaneously prepping students to enter the energy field. The Clarkson graduate students will work on a wide variety of Smart Grid research, including economic models of energy costs and increasing communication between consumers and the national power grid.

GE's Smart Grid is an important step towards decreasing our nation's emission of carbon dioxide, 34% of which comes from our power grid. Through the employment of Smart Grid Technology, General Electric aims to increase energy generated from renewable resources, accurately detect power outages, and divert electricity during peak load hours/emergencies.

For more information visit http://www.clarkson.edu/news/view.php?id=2645.

NYSEG to evaluate the feasibility of a compressed air project in Reading

New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) has secured $1 million in NYSERDA funding to evaluate the feasibility of a compressed air energy storage facility in Reading, New York. The facility would relieve the power grid by using stored, compressed air to turn turbines.

The evaluation is expected to be completed this year and if feasible, the plant could be online in the next four years.

For more information visit http://www.brightonpittsfordpost.com/latestnews/x481354293/NYSEG-gets-1-million-for-compressed-air-project.

Update: The US Photovoltaic Manufacturing Consortium secures $62.5 million in federal funding!

The Department of Energy has granted $62.5 million to the U.S. Photovoltaic Manufacturing Consortium (PVMC), which is composed of The University of Albany's College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering and The University of Central Florida, for industry-focused development. Of the $112.5 million distributed among applicants, the U.S. Photovoltaic Manufacturing Consortium has received the most funding.

With the funding, the PVMC will lead an industry driven R&D initiative to catalyze the commercialization of next-generation copper iridium gallium selenide thin film photovoltaics. The University of Albany's College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering will establish manufacturing development facilities for such thin technologies, while the University of Central Florida will develop measurement and inspection tools to enable increased energy yield.

For more information visit http://www.energy.gov/news/10256.htm.

With federal funding Albany could be the national center for Solar PV research

United States Senator, Charles Schumer is working to make Albany, New York the national hub for solar photovoltaic research by advocating for a $100 million grant through the Department of Energy's SunShot Initiative. To strengthen Albany's case for the funding, the University at Albany's College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering and the University of Central Florida are creating the U.S. Photovoltaic Manufacturing Consortium, which will work closely with Albany-based computer chip research consortium, Sematech. If secured, the consortium will receive an additional $400 million in private and state funding.

Sematech is an important asset for the consortium as it already has the infrastructure necessary to set up a manufacturing line to test and develop emerging solar technologies.

For more information visit http://www.timesunion.com/business/article/Schumer-seeking-solar-funding-1322510.php#photo-2.

The Wild Center gains international recognition for it's renewable heating system

The Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks, also known as the Wild Center in Tupper Lake, New York has gained international recognition for it's renewable energy heating system. The system, which is composed of an ACT Bioenergy wood pellet gasification boiler and solar thermal heating arrays, was named Bioenergy Project of the Year for Excellence in Renewable Energy at the Renewable Energy World Conference and Expo in Tampa, Florida. The system is unique to New York State, ACT Bioenergy is a Schenectady based company and the pellets are produced in Massena.

With $350,000 in NYSERDA funding, The Wild Center installed the system in 2010 and has since recognized a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

For more information about the award visit http://adirondackdailyenterprise.com/page/content.detail/id/523828/Wild-Center-s-renewable-heating-system-wins-national-award.html?nav=5008.
To learn more about ACT Bioenergy visit http://www.actbioenergy.com/.

Center for the Evaluation of Clean Technology

With an ever growing clean technology sector in Central New York and a lack of accredited testing facilities, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority has provided $4.4 million in funding for the creation of the Center for the Evaluation of Clean Energy Technology (CeCet).

Led by Intertek, an international industrial testing firm with locations in New York State, CeCet is a consortium of regional universities/organizations with a mission to test clean energy technologies while providing students with hands on education.  The CeCeT facility will be the fifth of its kind in the United States and will save small wind manufacturers from traveling to Colorado to test their turbines. In addition to Intertek, the consortium includes AWS Truepower, Clarkson University, Rochester Institute of Technology, SUNY Canton, Alfred State, Binghamton University, RPI, Syracuse University and the Syracuse Center of Excellence.  There are currently only four accredited testing facilities in the United States.

Still in development, The Clean Tech Center has given CeCeT launch-pad space at the Syracuse Technology Garden.

For more information visit http://www.thetechgarden.com/mail/techessentials/2011/april/center.php.

America's Next Top Energy Innovator Challenge

In an effort to catalyze growth in our nation's clean technology sector, The Department of Energy has announced a program within President Obama's "Startup America Initiative"to reduce costs associated with licensing/commercializing patents held by national laboratories. The program, entitled "America's Next Top Energy Innovator", allows for start-up companies to license technologies developed by any of our nation's national laboratories for only $1,000, representing upfront savings ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. With only 10% of the 15,000 technologies currently licensed, the program has the potential to spur immense growth in the clean energy, transportation, and construction sectors of our economy.

In addition to reducing licensing costs, the program reduces the cost associated with private companies conducting collaborative research and development at our nation's 17 national laboratories.

The Program runs from May 2nd to December 15th, 2011.

For more information on the program visit http://www.energy.gov/news/10202.htm.
To access the technologies available for commercialization visit http://techportal.eere.energy.gov/.

The Syracuse Center of Excellence's LEED platinum headquarter

The Syracuse Center of Excellence (SyracuseCoE), a Syracuse based organization with the mission to create innovations in environmental and energy technologies that improve human health/productivity, security and sustainability in urban and built environments, is housed in one of the most energy efficient buildings in the nation. The SyracuseCoE's LEED platinum headquarter building was designed by the world renowned architect, Toshiko Mori.

Toshiko Mori employed a myriad of energy saving features into the building's design, including a planted green roof to absorb storm water runoff and provide insulation. The building is heated/cooled by a system of overhead water panels that are more efficient than traditional systems. The building has a south-facing window wall, which captures natural light and employs thin blinds between panes that adjust automatically to the sun to reduce glare. In addition to energy efficiency, the Syracuse CoE is developing and employing ventilation systems that filter pollutants from outside air, which Ed Bogucz, the Syracuse CoE's executive director, states increases organizational productivity.

For more information refer to http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-03-29/syracuse-builds-41-million-incubator-for-green-ideas-james-s-russell.html
or visit the SyracuseCoE's website at http://www.syracusecoe.org/coe/.

Binghamton's water treatment plant becomes the City's first renewable energy generator

With $320,922 in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, The City of Binghamton has installed a 50 kilowatt solar photovoltaic system on a local water treatment plant. The system is the first on-site renewable energy generation system for the city and is expected to offset 23 tons of carbon dioxide a year while saving taxpayers $576,000 over its expected life of 25 years.

The system, which is composed of 18 arrays with a total of 204 photovoltaic modules was designed/built by the Kingston, New York based company EarthKind Solar.

To learn more about the project visit http://www.newschannel34.com/content/developingnews/story/Mayor-Ryan-Congressman-Hinchey-NYSERDA-and/2EAd0IH0okiJL2ySsiDFmA.cspx.

For more information on EarthKind solar visit http://www.earthkindsolar.com/.

California based semiconductor company to open two locations in New York State

Group4 Labs Inc., a California based company that specializes in the research and development of semiconductor materials for a myriad of uses, has announced two new facilities in New York State. With aid from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, Group4 will move into the nanotechnology research and development center in what was once the General Electric Co. Electronics Laboratory in Salina. The company expects to create 94 high quality manufacturing jobs in Salina over the course of the next four years.

The company is also establishing a R&D facility at the University of Albany's College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering in Albany, NY and expects to create 50 jobs in the State's capital city.

For more information visit http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2011/03/california_nanotech_company_wi.html.

Empire State Building sets an example for high profile energy retrofits

Anthony Malkin, the owner of New York City's iconic empire state building, has recently invested $20 million to retrofit the building for energy efficiency. The retrofits, which were originally discussed in a post on October 15th, have reduced the building's energy consumption by 38%, and are expected to pay for themselves over the next five years. In addition the retrofits are projected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 100,000 tons over a 15 year period.

In addition to environmental benefits the retrofits have attracted high-profile tenants willing to pay more for space in New York's tallest, energy efficient building.

For more information visit http://www.dailyfinance.com/story/real-estate/new-yorks-tallest-building-is-now-one-of-its-greenest/19798859/.

Refer to our October 15th post at http://cleantechny.blogspot.com/2010/10/empire-state-building-installs-state-of.html.

Recharge NY

The New York State Senate has recently passed legislation to create "Recharge NY", a program aimed at creating/retaining jobs by providing businesses with low-cost power. With energy rates nearly twice as high as those in other states, the program has the potential to revive New York's economy and restore countless manufacturing jobs that have been lost to the competitive advantage of other states.

Recharge NY is a continuation of New York's current Power for Jobs program which provides businesses with 455 megawatts of discounted power and proposes to double that number to 910 MW. The program is supported by the Business Council of New York State, the New York Farm Bureau, the National Federation of Independent Business, the Manufacturers Association of Central New York and the Environmental Advocates of New York.

For more information about the program visit http://www.nysenate.gov/print/84676.

NYSERDA offers incentive for fuel cell installation

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority has announced its Customer-Sited Tier Fuel Cell Program, which gives up to $1 million for hospitals, schools, companies and other large users of electricity to install fuel cells.

Fuel Cells, which convert natural gas to a hydrogen-rich fuel for electricity generation emit 60% less carbon dioxide than combustion engines and only lose approximately 8% of energy produced to transmission. Fuel cells vary in size but can generate an upwards of 400 kW of electricity on site. Such statistics make fuel cells a promising way to reduce the total energy load on New York State's grid while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The program, which is funded by New York State's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), is available to any ratepayer who pays the RPS charge.

For more information visit http://libn.com/blog/2011/03/16/ny-sets-aside-22m-for-fuel-cell-incentives/.

Syracuse wins IBM's Smarter Cities Grant

Syracuse was chosen to be one of 24 cities to receive IBM's Smarter Cities Grant. The grant, which is worth up to $400,000, sends up to 10 IBM experts to Syracuse to develop a software-based planning tool to combat the problem of vacant properties in Syracuse, a problem designated by city officials. The team of experts plan to do this by blending information about a wide range of factors like crime rates, poverty, tree cover, trash collection, etc. to predict problems with vacant housing and efficiently allocate resources.  The city expects work on the project to start next fall.

Of the 24 cities chosen by IBM, only 8 are in the United States and Syracuse is the only recipient in New York State.  

For more information visit http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2011/03/syracuse_named_one_of_ibms_sma.html.

The Industrial and Process Efficiency Program

Requiring an abundant amount of energy to power computers and HVAC equipment, Data Centers put a heavy strain on New York's electrical grid. To counter this NYSERDA has partnered with Con Edison and IBM to create the Industrial and Process Efficiency Program to provide organizations with up to 50% of the total cost (or $5 million) for projects in data center efficiency. Currently $100 million is available under the program.

With the second-highest concentration of data centers in the country, New York State has the potential to cut total energy use by 55,000 megawatt-hours per year, saving a total of $8 million in energy costs.

For more information on the program including instructions for applications visit http://www.nyserda.org/programs/Existing_facilities/data_centers.html.

William Acker named executive director of the New York Battery and Energy Storage Consortium

The New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology Consortium (NY-BEST) has named William Acker its executive director. Founded in 2010 with $25 million from NYSERDA's Clean Energy Interstate Rule, NY-BEST is a member organization working to build and promote a world-class advanced battery and storage sector in New York State.

With extensive experience in the clean technology sector, William Acker is a good pick for executive director. William Acker is the founder of MTI MicroFuel Cells Inc. which specializes in the production of micro fuel cell power systems and is a founder/chairman of both Taconic Energy, Inc. and Optiwind, Corp. William Acker has also served as vice president of technology and product development at Plug power Inc.  As executive directer Acker plans to unite New York's energy storage companies, universities and partners to advance the New York battery and energy storage sector.

For more information visit http://www.bizjournals.com/albany/news/2011/02/28/acker-named-head-of-battery-consortium.html.

The Center for Advanced Materials Processing at Clarkson University

With a mandate to develop innovations in advanced materials processing and transfer them to business and industry, The Center for Advanced Materials Processing (CAMP) at Clarkson University has created immense economic benefits for the state of New York. Over its 10 years of operation, CAMP has created $275 million in economic benefits through increased sales, reduced costs and external funding/investments for businesses.

CAMP capitalizes on Clarkson's expertise in colloid/surface science and fine particle technology to research the production, modification and conversion of matter for which nano-sized particles, colloidal media, and/or surfaces play an important role in the process or properties of the final product.

For more information regarding CAMP visit http://www.clarkson.edu/camp/.

New York farmers are national leaders in the adoption of renewable energy sources

A recent U.S. Department of Agriculture On-Farm Renewable Energy Production Survey found that 202 farms in New York were producing renewable energy. Of the 202 farms, 156 had photovoltaic panels and 58 had wind turbines. In addition, 18 farms have methane digesters to create bio-gas, the second most in the country behind Wisconsin!

Through the employment of renewable energies the farms saved an average of $5,067 on their utility bills.

For more information visit http://blog.timesunion.com/business/more-than-200-ny-farms-generate-renewable-energy/22910/.

NYSERDA induced into the Alliance to Save Energy's "Energy Efficiency Hall of Fame"

On February 16, 2010 The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority became the first Government Agency to ever be induced into the Alliance to Save Energy's "Energy Efficiency Hall of Fame". Created in 2004 to recognize those whose dedication have led to breakthroughs in the advancement of energy efficiency, the hall of fame is composed of congressional staff members/committees and national energy research labs.

NYSERDA received the high honor for being a government leader in the promotion of energy efficiency since the agency's foundation in 1975. The agency boasts a $2.20 energy bill savings for every dollar invested, totaling more than $2.9 billion saved.  Kateri Callahan, the president of the Alliance to Save Energy justified the induction by stating "NYSERDA's well rounded approach to energy efficiency has encompassed innovation, business development, education, workforce development and the environment. In addition, the agency has successfully leveraged public/private partnerships to create and sustain energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, making it a stellar role model for the rest of the country."

For more information visit: http://www.nyserda.org/Press_Releases/2011/PressReleas20110217.asp

The Syracuse Tech Garden becomes the U.S. headquarters for two international clean technology companies

ProTerra LED and SunEnergy Europe launched their new U.S. headquarters at the Syracuse Tech Garden on Monday. ProTerra LED of Toronto and SunEnergy Europe of Germany picked Syracuse because of its thriving regional clean technology innovation cluster, skilled workforce, robust supply chain and leadership in clean energy technology development.

ProTerra LED specializes in the development of industrial lighting systems that are 60-80% more efficient without using mercury or other trouble chemicals. Proterra will need employees for sales, marketing, engineering, assembling and testing and projects that 100 jobs will be created within the next 5 years. The company, which requires a local supply chain has the potentially to create another 1,000 jobs indirectly.

SunEnergy Europe specializes in the development of photovoltaic systems for businesses, schools and government and has goals of installing 12-15 MW before January 2013. SunEnergy's presence in Syracuse is expected to directly create 12 jobs while many more will be generated through contracting others to install such systems.

For more information visit http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2011/02./canadian_german_firms_launch_u.html.

The Top Ten reasons why New York leads the pack in clean technology

Shawn Lesser, president and founder of Sustainable World Capital and co-founder of the GCCA Global Cleantech Cluster Association and Joe Daniels, partner and chair of the emerging companies and venture capital group at Hodgson Russ, LLP co-wrote an article on the CleanTechies blog honoring New York State as a leader in clean technology and highlighted ten reasons why New York State is step above the rest.

The top ten reasons given are:

1. State Investments in Cleantech: The Office of the New York State Comptroller has committed $500 million to be invested over 3 years in cleantech funds through its Green Strategic Investment Program. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) annually finances $600 million in programs to advance the uses of energy and environmental efficient technology and renewable energy sources in ways that promote sustainable economic development. For instance, NYSERDA recently committed $250 million in funding for electric generation projects using wind, hydroelectric, biomass or other clean-energy resources. New York State also recently committed $25 million to the New York Battery and Energy Storage Consortium (NY-BEST) to create a nationally-recognized center for energy storage technology research and development. Its efforts have been validated by GE Global Research’s recent investment of $250 million on advanced battery research and manufacturing facilities near Albany. 

2. State Incentives for Green Business: The State of New York offers many incentives to businesses that elect to go green, including a personal tax credit of up to two million dollars per building over a period of five years to buildings that meet different “green” standards, property tax incentives such as property tax abatements for photovoltaic equipment expenditures, exemptions for solar, wind, and biomass energy systems, state rebate programs, utility rebate programs for companies that practice energy conservation and efficiency, industry recruitments and support, and economic recovery funding.

3. Increased Employment Opportunities:  New York’s Renewable Energy Task Force has concluded that more than 43,000 jobs would be created in the process of shifting only 25 percent of the state’s electricity needs to production by renewable means. In July 2009, in order to grow the cleantech sector and create jobs in NYC, NYSERDA provided a $1.5 million grant to the New York Accelerator for a Renewable Economy (NYC ACRE). NYC-ACRE is now an accelerator for promising cleantech entrepreneurs that provides extensive co-located resources along with physical space, and houses numerous successful cleantech companies. Because of recent job losses throughout New York State due to the recent recession, this and other efforts to increase cleantech job opportunities could not have come at a better time.

4. Renewable Energy Task Force and Plan: The Renewable Energy Task Force consists of a number of stakeholders in the field of renewable energy as well as alternative fuel industries, public utilities, agricultural and environmental communities, state and local governments, and energy policy experts, with a goal to increase the development of renewable energy and energy independence to attract the investment of clean energy industries into New York State. The Plan includes reducing electricity use by 15% from forecasted levels in 2015, new standards in appliance efficiency, creation of stronger energy-related codes for buildings, and investment into projects around the state dealing with renewable energy.

5. Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Reduction: Because of the desire to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of energy independence, renewable energy, and energy efficiency, New York State has been involved in several major programs to increase the impact of cleantech in the state. These programs include the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (the nation’s first market-based, mandatory cap-and-trade program), The Climate Registry, adoption of California State vehicle emission standards, climate smart communities, the Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (30% of electricity from renewable sources by 2015), Green Buildings, and the NYSERDA Adaption Study on climate change.

6. New York Energy Smart Program: Created by NYSERDA, the New York Energy Smart Program was designed to increase the impact of renewable energy on all walks of life to reduce energy usage as well as costs. It provides energy efficient programs for owners of existing homes and new homes, low and medium income renters and homeowners, multifamily buildings, teachers, studies, businesses, and individuals interested in purchasing products to assist with energy efficiency. This program has an outreach program, energy education, clean energy training, and where to go to purchase energy efficient products.

7. Moving Toward Increased Use of Renewable Energy in New York City: New York City is the largest city in the United States and the fourth largest in the world by population. As such, it uses a vast amount of electricity every day, and has been very actively looking for ways to lower electricity bills by decreasing its electricity usage and increasing its use of renewable energy. For instance, the New York City Economic Development Corporation released a Request for Expressions of Interest to develop new and innovative ideas to assist the city in the development of renewable energy sources, including off-shore wind farms, wind turbines on bridges and skyscrapers, and using tidal, geothermal, and solar power.

8. The MTA is Going Green: With the recent investment into green businesses and the large number of investments into renewable energy, the Metropolitan Transit Authority, known by most as the MTA, has created plans for a number of cleantech initiatives such as green roofs, wind and solar power, water management and regenerative braking. The MTA runs the New York City subway, rail, and bus systems, which require more than 600 megawatts of energy per day. Because of its increased emphasis on becoming more energy efficient, the MTA stands to save hundreds of thousands of dollars every year. One of the things the MTA is looking into is generating roughly 14% of its total power from the use of wind turbines and tidal energy

10. Creation of Multiple New York Non-Profits: More groups are being created to assist in driving the overall impact of renewable energy in New York. For example, the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) works to promote the usage of renewable clean electricity technologies and efficiency throughout the state. Its goals are to increase energy security and diversity, increase overall economic development, greatly improve public health, and decrease total air pollution.

For the full article visit http://blog.cleantechies.com/2011/02/09/ten-top-reasons-new-york-state-is-a-cleantech-leader/.

GlobalFoundries announces expansion in Malta

The worlds third largest independent semiconductor foundry, GlobalFoundries, has announced plans to build a new administrative building adjacent to its computer chip factory at the Luther Forest Technology Campus in Malta, New York. Although there has been great speculation to the purpose of the building, GlobalFoundries has announced that it will house 450 workers to support the original chip factory.

In a design plan recently submitted to the Town of Malta, the company shows that the new administration building is designed in a way to allow for the construction of two more chip factories at the technology campus. The new administration building is capable of housing 1,500 employees and has the potential to be at full occupancy if the additional factories are constructed.

At a luncheon hosted by the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce GlobalFoundries communication director, Travis Bullard, hinted at the expansion by telling attendees that its factory in Germany, which was only planned on employing 1,400 people quickly grew to 3,000.

For more information visit http://www.timesunion.com/business/article/Chip-fab-office-jobs-on-way-1020557.php.

David Manning announced as the NYS Smart Grid Consortium's executive director

The New York State Smart Grid Consortium, an organization of New York's leading utilities, industries and Universities has appointed David Manning as their first executive director. The consortium has a mission to implement an energy system that facilitates the employment of renewable energy sources to provide efficient, reliable and secure energy for New York. Only three years old, the Consortium has already completed a cost/benefit analysis that forms the foundation of future advocacy efforts, created a New York State Smart Grid Road map to assess economic, customer and social impacts, concluded public filings within New York Public Service proceedings on the smart grid, and created a portal within the U.S. Department of Energy program management for New York smart grid efforts.

David Manning is a Senior VP and Energy Practice Leader for the Boston based engineering firm, Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc., which specializes in energy and the environment. With experience advising utilities, energy providers, governments and developers on energy issues, Manning is a good fit for the position.


For more information visit http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nys-smart-grid-consortium-names-david-manning-executive-director-116309209.html.

Govsphere to partner with Syracuse University and join the Wirless Grid Innovation Testbed

The Syracuse, New York based management/technology consulting firm, Govsphere Inc. has announced that it will partner Syracuse University and join The Wireless Grid Innovation Testbed (WiGiT). WiGiT is a National Science Foundation Partnerships for Innovation sponsored consortium that works to establish a set of open standards for the development of wireless grids. WiGiT is led by Syracuse University and Virginia Polytechnic and State University and receives support from Clean Channel Radio, Qualcom, Wireless Grids Corporation, Syracuse Research Corporation, Tufts University, MIT, Rochester Institute of Technology, City College of New York, the Syracuse City School District, BOCES Rockland County and the Seneca Nation of Indians.

The wireless grids being developed by WiGiT interconnect wireless devices, creating a value proposition to increase access to wireless communication services and develop new economic sectors. Wireless grids have applications ranging from emergency services to personal networking.

Govsphere's new partnership is expected to spawn projects that will support the Near Westside Initiative, facilitate the deployment of a crowd-sourced emergency solution, and remote monitoring solutions for green buildings.

Govsphere Inc. is a tenant of The Syracuse Technology Garden.


For more information on the new partnership click here.

Solutions & Opportunities: Upstate Energy Efficiency Conference

National Grid has announced their sponsorship of the Upstate Energy Efficiency Conference themed "Solutions & Opportunities". The conference will be held on Thursday, April 7, 2011 in Verona, NY. Still in the planning stage, National Grid is excepting applications for interested Exhibitors and Presenters.

To apply visit http://www.shovelready.com/savethedate/savethedateee.html.

NYSERDA grants $4.6 million to catalyze the growth of new transportation technologies

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority has granted $4.6 million to catalyze the development/commercialization of new transportation technologies in New York State. NYSERDA has selected 17 companies with innovative technologies that show potential to reduce emissions, decrease our reliance on fossil fuels and create high quality jobs. The funding will leverage an additional $7.5 million of investments from the private sector.

Five of the technologies are from Central New York and represent a wide array of technologies. Syracuse University and BorgWarner are developing a fuel injection system for diesel engines that will run more efficiently and emit less pollutants. Senesis Corporation of Syracuse is developing software that will allow for decreased airplane idling time. PAR Logistics Management Systems of New Hartford has developed a system for tractor trailer drivers to monitor tire pressure from the drivers seat. American Aerogel Corp of Rochester is developing a method to better insulate refrigerated tractor trailers. The Rochester companies Environmental Energy technologies Inc. and Blue Lake Associates are developing a way to generate an ionic field in diesel engines to reduce pollution.

For a complete list of companies/technologies receiving funding visit http://www.nyserda.org/Press_Releases/2011/PressReleas20110207.asp.

The Niagara Power Project's 50 year birthday

Last Thursday marked the Niagara Power Project's 50th year of generating steady, carbon-free hydroelectric energy for New York State. The project, which went online in 1961, marks the largest construction project in the areas history. After numerous upgrades, the hydroelectric facility is capable of diverting 365,000 gallons of water per second, generating 2.4 million kW of energy.

For more information on The Niagara Power Project and its 50 year history visit http://www.nypa.gov/facilities/niagara.htm.

Samsung to collaborate with IBM at The Albany Nanotech Center

IBM and Samsung have reached an agreement to collaborate on research regarding new semiconductor materials, manufacturing processes and other technologies to be used in a wide range of applications. Samsung scientists will join forces with IBM scientists to conduct research through the Semiconductor Research Alliance at the Albany Nanotech Complex.

The agreement marks the first time Samsung will work along side the Armonk, NY headquartered company, IBM at the world-leading Albany Nanotech Complex.
For more information visit http://www.telecompaper.com/news/ibm-samsung-plan-joint-semiconductor-research.

Central New York's Climate Change Innovation Program

Today, the Madison County Board of Supervisors will consider participating in the Central New York Climate Change Innovation Program by adopting the Climate Smart Communities Pledge.  The pledge serves as an agreement to complete a wide spectrum of local climate initiatives ranging from promoting renewable energy to developing an adaptation plan for the local effects of climate change. 

If Madison County decides to participate in the Central New York Climate Change Innovation Program, it will receive as much as $30,000 in funding from the Regional Planning and Development Board to implement energy conservation/ alternative energy development projects.  Thus far, Syracuse, Oswego, Cortland, Preble, Dewitt, Skaneateles, Port Byron and Madison, Cayuga counties are participating in the Central New York Climate Change Innovation Program.

Stay tuned for more information on Madison's progress.

For more information on the program, including a full list of local climate initiatives and ways to get your community involved visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/energy/50845.html.