NY Five Cities Energy Plans Program

As an extension of the BuildSmart NY initiative, the cities of Albany, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Yonkers are among those competing for $20 million in funding for new energy projects. Over the past year, each of these cities in conjunction with the state, have developed individual energy plans to address ways in which they will enhance the overall quality of life through a cleaner environment. In managing these efforts they will reduce energy consumption, strengthen their cities energy infrastructure, and drive investment in clean energy and economic development.

The New York Power Authority will assist the cities in implementing their plans and monitor the progress. In large, the competition aims to further reach a target of improving energy efficiency 20 percent by 2020 in state government buildings and citywide by 2030. The program anticipates that each city can focus on ways of improving the energy efficiency of city and community buildings, as well as outdoor lighting, provide transportation solutions and upgrades, and revitalize itself in an attempt to attract new residents and business.