New York State is making a significant commitment to sustainability with Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement of $150 million in grants to decarbonize public college campuses. These funds, drawn from the state’s $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022, will go toward green energy upgrades at State University of New York (SUNY) and City University of New York (CUNY) institutions, marking a pivotal step in New York’s broader climate strategy.
A Major Investment in Sustainability and Innovation
The $150 million will be split between SUNY, which will receive $100 million, and CUNY, which will be allocated $50 million. These funds will help modernize campus infrastructures, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and drive long-term cost savings through clean energy solutions. In addition, the initiative will create jobs while helping New York meet its climate goals.
SUNY Campus Projects ($100M)
- Binghamton University: The installation of thermal energy networks and heat pumps aims to cut energy consumption by 45% and reduce operational costs by $300,000 annually.
- University at Buffalo: The university will introduce an energy hub designed to phase out fossil fuels and boost energy efficiency.
- SUNY Oswego: A geothermal energy system will be deployed to reduce both energy costs and emissions.
- Stony Brook University: Solar energy installations will help decarbonize Long Island’s electric grid.
CUNY Campus Projects ($50M)
- City College of New York: Solar canopies, battery storage, EV charging stations, and heat pumps will electrify the campus, reducing its carbon footprint.
- Brooklyn College: The school will adopt geothermal heating and cooling, install rooftop solar panels, and add EV charging stations.
- Hunter College: The campus will transition from outdated steam systems to more energy-efficient hot and chilled water systems.
Economic and Environmental Impact
These projects are not only environmentally beneficial but will also create jobs and stimulate New York’s green economy. By supporting clean energy initiatives in higher education, Governor Hochul underscores the role that these institutions play in shaping the state’s climate future.
In her announcement, Governor Hochul emphasized, “New York’s higher education institutions are vital in leading the charge toward a cleaner, greener future.” SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. added, “SUNY’s campuses are spearheading sustainability efforts that directly address climate change.” Meanwhile, CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez noted that the funding will help CUNY “play a key role in the development of a resilient and responsible New York.”
Broader Climate Goals
This initiative is part of New York’s broader climate strategy, with over $1 billion allocated in the Executive Budget for climate-related projects. The state has already distributed $1.25 billion of the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act, including $108 million for coastal resiliency and green grants. With these investments, New York is positioning itself as a leader in the clean energy transition, utilizing its public institutions as key drivers of sustainability and innovation.
Conclusion
Governor Hochul’s announcement signals a major step forward in New York’s quest for sustainability, providing critical funding to modernize campus energy systems, reduce emissions, and promote clean energy technologies. With these efforts, New York’s public colleges are poised to play a key role in advancing the state’s climate goals while contributing to economic growth and job creation.
