On Tuesday, September 24th, during New York’s Climate Week, Governor Kathy Hochul announced two significant steps in the state’s ongoing push toward renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. These announcements include approving two major renewable energy projects and launching a $5.5 million grant program to support the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure across New York State. Both initiatives highlight the state’s commitment to meeting ambitious climate goals, such as 70 percent renewable energy by 2030 and a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040.
The two renewable energy projects, the Rich Road Solar Energy Center in St. Lawrence County and the Prattsburgh Wind LLC project in Steuben County are expected to produce a combined 387 megawatts of clean energy, enough to power more than 123,000 homes. These projects will also create over 380 new jobs, helping stimulate local economies while contributing to the state’s clean energy transition. The projects were approved by the New York State Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES) and are set to significantly boost the state’s renewable energy capacity.
Governor Hochul emphasized that these projects are key to New York’s broader climate agenda, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85 percent by 2050. The Rich Road Solar project will include a battery energy storage system and is expected to power more than 61,000 homes. Meanwhile, the Prattsburgh Wind project will provide enough clean energy to supply over 62,000 homes, reinforcing the state’s position as a leader in renewable energy deployment.
In addition to the renewable energy projects, Governor Hochul announced a $5.5 million municipal grant program designed to expand zero-emission vehicle infrastructure across New York. The grants will fund the installation of EV chargers and hydrogen fuel stations, further supporting New York’s efforts to reduce emissions from the transportation sector. Municipalities can apply for funding to install chargers, making it easier for residents to transition to electric vehicles.
The municipal grant program is part of the state’s broader plan to support cleaner transportation alternatives. This initiative aligns with New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which mandates significant emissions reductions over the next few decades. Expanding access to electric vehicle infrastructure is crucial to meeting these targets, as transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the state.
With both the renewable energy projects and the grant program, New York is taking tangible steps toward its climate goals. These initiatives not only advance clean energy and transportation efforts but also create new jobs and economic opportunities for communities across the state. Governor Hochul’s announcements mark important milestones in the state’s ongoing battle against climate change.
