NY’s investor-owned utilities work to increase access to energy efficiency for low-income households
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the state’s investor-owned electric utilities are working together to increase access to energy efficiency and clean energy solutions for low-to-moderate-income households and affordable multifamily buildings.
The partnership will result in cleaner and healthier indoor air and more affordable energy options for households. The initiative will more than double the number of low-to-moderate income households and multifamily buildings receiving energy efficiency services. These services include insulation, air sealing, electric load reduction, and HVAC improvements.
“As we continue our fight against climate change, we must ensure that all New Yorkers have access to clean energy and are not left behind in the transition to a green economy, particularly those in our most vulnerable communities who most directly feel the harmful impacts of climate change and environmental degradation,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “This groundbreaking public-private partnership is a smart and innovative approach that will bring affordable, clean energy solutions directly into the homes of those who need them most and make the lives of all New Yorkers safer and healthier.”
Low-to-moderate income (LMI) households are disproportionately impacted by energy costs. For many, the annual energy burden exceeds 20 percent of their household income. This program will help vulnerable residents control their energy costs and access the benefits of clean energy solutions.
The investor-owned electric companies taking part in the initiative include: Central Hudson Gas & Electric, Con Edison, National Fuel Gas, National Grid, Orange & Rockland, and New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E), subsidiaries of AVANGRID, Inc. Through this framework, nearly $1 billion will be invested through 2025 to advance energy efficiency in the LMI market segment.
Specifically, more than $300 million will be allocated to reduce energy burdens by increasing access to energy efficiency for LMI homeowners and renters; more than $500 million will go to improve energy efficiency in affordable multifamily buildings; $45 million will be set aside for community-level engagement and capacity building with community-based organizations; and $30 million for developing clean heating and cooling solutions for LMI homes and buildings.
“Today’s announcement marks an important progression in a series of actions the state is taking to ensure no New Yorker, regardless of income, is denied access to energy efficiency services that provide more comfortable, clean and healthy living environments. Our investment underscores the laser focus we have in advancing New York’s just and equitable transition to a carbon-neutral economy under Governor Cuomo’s leadership,” NYSERDA Acting President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said.
