Long Island, NY - June 28, 2017 - The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) today announced the availability of up to $4 million in its first round of technology challenges for innovative clean energy companies to develop, commercialize and demonstrate new technologies for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The technology challenges are designed to bring in new and innovative private sector solutions and ideas to make buildings more energy efficient and support Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s energy goals to decrease energy consumption in buildings 23 percent and reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030.
Over the next three years, a total of $15 million will be available for four rounds of technology challenges to encourage private investment and advance the next generation of HVAC systems for buildings. Each round will identify the number and specific technology challenges to be addressed. The first round has four challenges focusing on advanced heat pumps, HVAC controls, compressor-less HVAC and Ground Heat Exchangers solutions.
“These technology challenges will identify ways New York can replace and upgrade aging HVAC systems with cleaner and more energy-efficient systems, which will lower energy bills and reduce harmful emissions,” said Alicia Barton, President and CEO, NYSERDA. “We encourage those companies applying to be innovative and forward-thinking in taking the next steps to achieve Governor Cuomo’s ambitious energy goals.”
NYSERDA will accept concept papers focusing on any of the four technology challenges. Ideas could include advanced cold climate heat pumps, integrated heat pump solutions for space conditioning and hot water, or alternative HVAC solutions not requiring a compressor that lower the cost of installing a ground heat exchanger associated with a geothermal heat pump system. NYSERDA will review concept papers and then, through a competitive process, request the best concept papers to submit follow-up proposals. The proposals selected will receive funding to move forward with their projects.
HVAC equipment consumes approximately 40 percent of the energy used by buildings and is responsible for 36 percent of the greenhouse gas emissions in the state. Approximately 80 percent of the buildings in New York State were built before energy-related building codes were developed in the 1970s. Focusing on the next generation of HVAC equipment innovation will significantly alleviate the stress imposed on the electric grid during the hottest days of the summer months, improving reliability and potentially delaying or avoiding the need for utility distribution network upgrades.
Funding is through the State's Clean Energy Fund. More information about the funding is available at NYSERDA’s website.
About the Clean Energy Fund
The 10-year, $5.3 billion Clean Energy Fund is a core component of New York State's Reforming the Energy Vision strategy to achieve a clean, resilient and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers. It is designed to deliver on New York State’s commitment to reduce ratepayer collections, drive economic development, and accelerate the use of clean energy and energy innovation. It includes a focused effort to bring more clean energy opportunities and benefits to low- to moderate-income communities throughout the State. The Clean Energy Fund supports the aggressive Clean Energy Standard of 50 percent of the state’s electricity coming from renewable energy resources by 2030.
About Reforming the Energy Vision
Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) is Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's strategy to lead on climate change and grow New York's economy. REV is building a cleaner, more resilient and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers by stimulating investment in clean technologies like solar, wind, and energy efficiency and requiring 50 percent of the state's electricity needs be generated from renewable energy by 2030. Already, REV has driven a nearly 800 percent growth in the statewide solar market, enabled over 105,000 low-income households to permanently cut their energy bills with energy efficiency, and created thousands of jobs in manufacturing, engineering, installation and other clean-tech sectors. REV is ensuring New York State reduces statewide greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030 and achieves the internationally-recognized target of reducing emissions 80 percent by 2050. To learn more about REV, including the Governor's $5 billion investment in clean energy technology and innovation, please visit www.ny.gov/REV4NY and follow us at @Rev4NY.
About NYSERDA
NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and funding to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. NYSERDA professionals work to protect the environment and create clean-energy jobs. NYSERDA has been developing partnerships to advance innovative energy solutions in New York State since 1975. To learn more about NYSERDA’s programs and funding opportunities, visit nyserda.ny.gov or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, or Instagram.