Wednesday 6 July 2022

New York governor signs three bills to spur energy efficiency and clean energy

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed three bills that are expected to strengthen the state's commitment to energy efficiency and clean energy development while reducing emissions.

The Advanced Building Codes, Appliance and Equipment Efficiency Standards Act of 2022 boosts New York's regulatory and policy environment to support energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction strategies in buildings along with expanded appliance standards.

The Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act requires the Public Service Commission (PSC) to develop a regulatory structure for utility thermal energy networks - including district geothermal and other community-scale thermal infrastructure projects - for heating and cooling homes and to direct utilities to launch pilot projects in their service territories.

In addition, legislation was signed requiring prevailing wage for renewable energy projects with 1MW and larger capacity that involve the procurement of green credits from a public entity.

They support the goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2050.

Governor Hochul said: “The impacts of climate change are felt all over New York State and in response we are taking bold action and building a stronger, more resilient New York by guaranteeing healthier, greener places to live and work.

“Now more than ever, the importance of a cost-effective green transformation is clear, and strengthening building codes and appliance standards will reduce carbon emissions and save New Yorkers billions of dollars by increasing efficiency. This multi-pronged legislative package will not only replace dirty fossil fuel infrastructure but it will also further cement New York as the national leader in climate action and green jobs.”