Central Hudson Gas & Electric outlines clean energy initiatives in report

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. highlighted several clean energy initiatives already underway in its Distributed System Implementation Plan (DSIP) that was filed recently with state regulators.

The filing includes updates on Central Hudson’s grid modernization, solar integration, electric vehicle adoption and energy efficiency program initiatives. A DSIP must be submitted by all New York investor-owned utilities every two years to the State Public Service Commission (PSC). The reports are intended to be a self-assessment addressing each utility’s system while identifying changes needed to reach clean energy and climate goals.

“New York has established nation-leading goals in the transition to cleaner energy and Central Hudson is proud to support this endeavor,” Charles Freni, president and CEO of Central Hudson, said. “Our Distributed System Implementation Plan not only shows what we’re doing to help meet these goals, but also details our continued initiatives for an efficient, affordable, safe and reliable energy system.”

Central Hudson’s 2020 DSIP outlines how the utility has committed an additional $43.2 million to support 75 million kilowatt-hours of energy savings through heat pump electrification. Heat pump technologies provide efficient heating and cooling for residences and businesses. Through rebates, Central Hudson aims to incentivize approximately 12,000 heat pump installations by 2025. Central Hudson is also replacing aging natural gas infrastructure to improve efficiency. The company has identified several locations throughout its service territory where it is feasible and cost-effective to retire sections of older gas lines.

Also, Central Hudson has continued to provide interconnection of distributed energy resources, the majority of which are solar photovoltaic. Solar installations within the utility’s service area are among the highest in the state with nearly 9,370 systems installed by residents, businesses and developers. In addition, Central Hudson is working on building its electric vehicle infrastructure. Efforts include an “EV Summit,” increased outreach to local counties and municipalities, and a transportation electrification program.

Finally, Central Hudson continues to implement several large-scale projects designed to improve the intelligence of its grid, including the installation of a Distribution Management System, increased levels of Distribution Automation, and an enterprise Network Strategy communication system that allows field devices to communicate with operators through an Energy Management System.