Across New York State, renewable energy programs are available for commercial, residential, and utility-scale customers and producers. In New York, 2008 represented a transformative year for renewable energy. During this year the Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard[1] was created and New York joined the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)[2] with a myriad of other states. Then, in 2014, the New York Green Bank was established as a specialized entity within NYSERDA specifically focused on increasing private investment in renewable energy.
Main Energy Organizations in New York State
NYSERDA, the Department of Public Service, the NYISO, and six utilities represent the main players in the New York State energy market. NYSERDA is led by a board of 13 members spanning from a diverse background across the state. NYSERDA focuses its efforts primarily on the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions [3]. While the Department of Public Service is tasked with regulating utilities to provide affordable access to utility services[4]. The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) is an independent company not affiliated with any energy organization charged with managing the electric grid in New York[5]. Six large investor-owned utilities represent the last major players. These utilities are Consolidated Edison,Orange and Rockland Utilities, Central Hudson Gas and Electric, Rochester Gas and Electric, New York State Electric and Gas, and National Grid. Overall, all these organizations work in conjunction to regulate the New York State energy market.
Policy Updates in November
- ConEd – Electric Vehicle Charging Station Make-Ready Program[6]: provides up to 100% of funding for the costs associated with building electric vehicle charging stations based on project eligibility incentives. Recently, a key addition to this program is focused on coverage towards disadvantaged communities.
- NY-Sun PV Incentive Program[7]: NYSERDA provides performance-based incentives for the installation of non-residential new grid connected solar photovoltaic systems ranging from 750kW to 7.5MW in the Upstate region. Incentives are awarded on a first come basis until 12/31/30.
- Clean Energy Standard[8]: on 3/22, the NYPSC revised the percentages to 3.25% and 6.16% for 2023. In this order, the NYPSC also announced a 6.45% obligation for 2024.
- Offshore Wind Standard[9]: the 2022 solicitation has provisionally awarded contracts for 4,032 MW of capacity, while the 2023 solicitation deadline is 1/25/24. Regulatory actions on the Offshore Wind Standard take place in Case No. 18-E-0071.
[1] Renewable Policy Standard (NYSERDA, 2023).
[2] Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (NYSERDA, 2023).
[3] We are the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA, 2023).
[4] Ensuring Safe and Reliable Utility Service for New Yorkers (Department of Public Service, 2023).
[5] Delivering the Grid of the Future (NYISO, 2023).
[6] Power-Ready Electric Vehicle Program (Con Edison, 2023).
[7] NY-Sun (NYSERDA, 2023).
[8] Clean Energy Standard (NYSERDA,2023).
[9] About Offshore Wind (NYSERDA, 2023).