New York SBDC Research Network

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is accepting applications from eligible building owners and leaseholders for financial incentives to improve the energy efficiency of new and substantially renovated buildings. The New Construction Program offers technical assistance to identify and evaluate energy-efficiency measures, capital financial incentives for installation of cost-effective electric measures and additional incentives for green buildings. * Eligibility: Businesses, local governments, not-for-profits and private institutions, public and private schools, colleges and universities, multifamily buildings (seeking green building certification), and health care facilities. Eligible applicants are New York State electricity or firm gas distribution customers of a participating utility company and who pay into the System Benefits Charge. * Funding: A total of $90,981,268 is available. * Deadline: Funding is available on a first-come, first-ser

My washing machine died around the holidays. Thanks to my procrastination and the laundromat around the corning, I managed to go hold out on buying a new one until this Saturday. Good timing, Amelia! Buying a new energy efficient machine this weekend made me eligible for New York's Great Appliance Swap Out , New York's energy-efficient appliance rebate program. If you're thinking about buying an ENERGY STAR refrigerator, freezer or washer there's still time to apply for the rebate. The program runs until February 21st, and according to the website, there's still more than $12,000,000 in remaining funds. If you're planning to recycle your older model, you could get $105 for a refrigerator, $75 for a freezer or $100 for a washer. If you need a refrigerator, washer and dishwasher you can get a bundled package and save $555.

A recent article in the Albany Business Review brought to my attention an important program available through National Grid, the core business of transmission and distribution of electricity and natural gas to customers in New York, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The Small Business Program was designed for business customers with an average demand use of 200 kilowatts or less (or 40,300 kilowatt-hours or less) per month, National Grid can help you reduce your company's energy costs by installing energy efficient equipment. •National Grid can provide a free energy audit and report of recommended energy efficiency improvements •National Grid will pay 70% of the cost of the installation of energy efficient equipment and you can finance the remaining 30% interest free for up to 24 months. •Cost-cutting, energy efficient equipment available through this program include: ◦Lighting Upgrades ◦Energy Efficient Time Clocks ◦Photo Cells For Outdoor Lighting ◦Occupancy Sensors

From the press release: The Small Business Development Center at Stony Brook University has successfully competed in a New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Program Opportunity and was awarded $247,000 for its proposal entitled the “Stony Brook Energy Company Initiative”. The goal of the initiative is to facilitate the entry of new and existing companies into the renewable and clean energy business in New York State. The core of the Energy Company Initiative will be the traditional services offered by the New York State Small Business Development Center system. In addition, these basic services will be significantly augmented with a portfolio of activities including conferences, workshops, and counseling on funding opportunities specifically focused on renewable and clean energy business development. Further, an internet – based Early Stage Development Forum will be established to allow and encourage communication among energy company principals, and scien

There are already a number of financial incentives for homeowners and small businesses looking to install energy efficient systems. As I blogged about last week, the Recovery Act looks to enhance and add to the existing programs. To locate financial incentives by state, check out the Database for State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency . Incentives are listed for Federal and State programs, including lists specifically for homeowners. If you’re seriously looking to install a photovoltaic system, NYSERDA offers a Solar Electric ( PV ) System Costs and Savings Calculator . You enter your zip code, your monthly electrical bill, and the size of the system you’d like to install. It will estimate installation costs, and add up the tax credits you could expect to receive. To keep up with how the Recovery Act will affect energy savings programs, sign up for NYSERDA's Economic Stimulus Updates LISTSERV .