The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has made $18 million available to support innovative building ventures that contribute to environmental conservation.
Governor Hochul's office disclosed that the funding, part of the Next Generation Buildings Innovation Challenges, will be allocated to companies adopting new, eco-friendly technologies to enhance building energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Eligible technologies include ground source heat pumps, geothermal systems, advanced building envelope solutions, and smart building controls.
Governor Hochul emphasized the significance of addressing building-related greenhouse gas emissions, stating, "The NextGen Buildings Innovation Challenges is one of many tools that we are employing to identify and foster real solutions to decarbonize and electrify our economy as we continue to fight climate change."
This marks the seventh round of funding by NYSERDA for clean and innovative building projects, with the present round featuring new focus areas. The first focus area is "building envelope systems and components," seeking projects that will curtail heating and cooling expenses for both single-family and multifamily dwellings. Projects that incorporate novel building materials and construction techniques are eligible for funding.
The second focus area is "ground source heat cost compression," targeting projects utilizing new heat pump equipment, ground loop technologies, and hybrid systems that are at least 20% more cost-effective to install than current systems. Both commercial and residential buildings are eligible under this category.
Lastly, the funding is directed towards "intelligent buildings," where projects should facilitate charging without requiring electric service upgrades and seamlessly integrate legacy and isolated energy systems. These projects in the commercial and residential sectors must ensure inhabitants' comfort while reducing emissions, grid impact, and electricity demand.
NYSERDA's decision to support such initiatives is driven by a desire to benefit lower-income and disadvantaged communities across the state. Previous rounds of funding have seen 64 companies receive nearly $45 million. The recipients have ranged from startups to well-established enterprises.
Businesses interested in applying for this funding have until 3 p.m. on September 27 to submit their applications online. Further details and a comprehensive list of eligible projects can be found on NYSERDA's website.
