In an attempt to address the state's critical energy challenges, Governor Andrew Cuomo has unveiled a new competition. Nearly $40 million is being made available to spur the development of small independent power grids.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority held an information session about the initiative Thursday at UB's Center for Tomorrow. NYSERDA's Micah Kotch says the competition is open to any type of community or group.
"It does not have to be a government entity. It could be. So for example Erie County or the city of Buffalo could apply," Kotch said.
"They could be the lead applicant. It could be anchor partner like a hospital, or university or data center...Or it could be a hybrid model where the local utility is a co-applicant with a community based organization or a non-profit."
Given the growing frequency of weather emergencies and the age of the grid, Kotch says energy reliability is not just an issue for the average residential customer but also healthcare facilities, first responders and waste water treatment plants.
"Those are vital community assets that you really want to make sure don't go down in the event of a larger emergency."
Kotch says microgrids will give communities more choice, and control over their energy future and ultimately reduce the cost of electricity.