At a time when the price of everyday necessities continues to rise, New Yorkers are understandably focused on ways to trim household budgets, including energy costs.
An April Siena College Research Institute poll found that even as New Yorkers by wide margins believe that greenhouse gas reduction activities will boost the economy and support public health, they are also expressing a greater need to focus on energy affordability. Gov. Hochul has made it clear that we can accomplish both objectives. At her direction, the state’s clean energy efforts are being driven by three main priorities: affordability, sustainability, and grid reliability.
That is why the governor recently directed the development and construction of an upstate advanced nuclear power plant that will build on the state’s existing nuclear fleet, which has operated safely, reliably, and emissions-free for decades, while complementing our ever-growing renewables portfolio comprised of hydropower, onshore and offshore wind, and solar.
We recently saw renewable energy play a pivotal role during the heat wave at the end of June where multiple cities across New York State saw temperatures exceed 100 degrees. In fact, the use of distributed solar helped to ensure the grid remained reliable and resilient during this period by reducing the state’s peak load by 5%, which reduced statewide costs for everyone by more than $90 million.
But it’s not just government that can help drive down costs while improving the environment. With the support of state programs, there is much the public can do to bring down their energy bills and drive up the efficiency of their household.
The current state budget includes a $1 billion landmark investment to help reduce household energy bills and move the state toward a more sustainable future. And the governor’s Inflation Rebate Checks, which will return up to $400 to your wallet this fall, will also help reduce your overall household expenses.
New Yorkers can also lower their overall energy costs by making energy-saving choices such as home weatherization and installing efficient appliances. The state has a range of resources and incentives to assist with lowering personal costs.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, or NYSERDA, offers two critical online resources — MyEnergy Portal and New York Energy Advisor — to help families make informed decisions, regardless of their budget, and navigate what it takes to modernize their residence in the easiest and most affordable manner possible.
MyEnergy Portal is a one-stop online home energy planning tool that’s designed to maximize financial savings, streamline improvement projects, and help residents discover the benefits of upgrading their home or apartment.
And all New York homeowners and renters can sign up for a free home energy assessment to get a top-to-bottom look at where a home is wasting energy and cost, as well as any potential health or safety issues. It is the best first step to knowing where to start and what options are available to take the next step, including incentives for clean heating solutions or rebates for the purchase of a high-efficiency heat pump clothes dryer.
For income-eligible New Yorkers, New York Energy Advisor connects residents with a customized list of energy-related assistance in the state. This includes access to programs such as EmPower+ which helps them save money toward home energy and efficiency improvements. New Yorkers can access free direct installations, like high-efficiency lighting and insulation or air sealing, which can mean thousands of dollars in energy cost savings for those who qualify.
And the state’s Energy Affordability Program is designed to provide direct financial relief for income-eligible New Yorkers facing high utility bills.
For 50 years, NYSERDA’s investments have fueled innovative technologies and renewable energy development that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, make buildings and homes more energy efficient, and lower the cost of the energy transition for residents and businesses. Today, there is no shortage of options for New Yorkers seeking accessible, affordable clean energy solutions that will make their home healthier and everyday costs more manageable.
We have the right tools in place for New Yorkers to start seeing the benefits today and for decades to come.
Harris is president and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.
