In a significant step towards achieving a sustainable and zero-emission future, New York Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a groundbreaking $12 million initiative aimed at facilitating the integration of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and the grid. The primary focus of this program is to address hard-to-decarbonize applications, including heavy trucking and construction vehicles, fleet operations, and residential EV ownership.
Administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the competitive initiative aims to accelerate the advancement of EV charging infrastructure while simultaneously reducing grid integration costs. The governor’s office has invited projects that concentrate on developing and demonstrating innovative and replicable solutions.
Under this program, selected projects stand a chance to secure funding of up to $3 million each for product development and technology demonstrations. These projects will primarily focus on strategies that “help reduce energy demand peaks and provide grid benefits through managed charging/discharging that will lower the overall cost of necessary electric grid infrastructure upgrades,” as confirmed by the New York State governor’s office.
The ultimate goal of this initiative is to facilitate successful demonstrations that support the widespread adoption of EVs as beneficial assets to both EV owners and grid operators. The program will actively support measures involving EVs with bi-directional charging, energy storage, on-site energy generation, and the electrification of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, employing either fuel-cell or battery-electric EVs.
Governor Hochul emphasized the critical role of affordability in accelerating the transition to clean transportation and building a resilient and reliable energy grid. She stated, “This $12 million initiative offers an innovative way to do both — exploring and supporting options for vehicle charging infrastructure that also provides energy back to the grid. We are committed to making it possible for both residents and companies to transition to owning and charging electric vehicles — building a greener future for all.”
Interested parties can submit concept papers for consideration until September 12, with the possibility of a second round of funding in early 2024 if all funds are not allocated in the first round.
This latest initiative adds to the state’s ongoing efforts in promoting clean energy solutions. Last year, Governor Hochul announced $23 million in funding, which included $15 million for charging initiatives and an additional $8 million for electric school and transit buses.
New York State has set ambitious targets to achieve a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, with 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030. Additionally, the state is striving to achieve economy-wide carbon neutrality, aligning with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act’s goal to reduce carbon emissions by 85 percent by 2050, with a target of directing at least 40 percent of clean energy investments to disadvantaged communities. The ambitious commitments underscore the state’s dedication to combating climate change and embracing a sustainable, greener future for generations to come.
