The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has launched two initiatives that will help strengthen the evolving renewable energy arena in New York. These initiatives grew out of the efforts and recommendations of Lt. Gov. David Paterson's Renewable Energy Task Force.
First, New York is initiating a $6 million clean-energy workforce training initiative. NYSERDA will invest more than $4 million in a range of clean energy sectors, including small wind and biogas energy systems. An additional $2 million is included in the governor's executive budget targeted at developing the solar workforce through programs at community colleges across New York State.
‘To serve as an example for other states across the nation, New York needs to do more than just promote clean energy technology, we need to seize opportunities to invent it,’ says Paul D. Tonko, NYSERDA president and CEO. ‘These research assets will help spur the innovation economy in New York and move us toward a clean-energy economy – one that can serve our markets and encourage extensive growth markets abroad.’
The second initiative is expected to be established through recommendations from the Renewable Energy Task Force, advising that New York should build on the competitive advantage of scientific and academic research institutions and help expand their role in clean-energy technology development.
To help fulfill these recommendations, NYSERDA is seeking to establish a Wind Energy Research and Testing Center in New York. Still in the preliminary stages of discussion and planning, the center would catalyze and support research in, for example, advanced materials, power electronics, turbine design, wind forecasting and environmental impact assessment. The proposed center would also provide resources to test new products and help provide a skilled workforce.
