New York is accelerating its ESG and carbon neutral strategy with a $150 million investment to decarbonize public college campuses. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the funding as part of the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022, supporting clean energy projects at SUNY and CUNY institutions. The initiative aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce energy costs, and modernize campus infrastructure with clean energy solutions. The investment will also support union jobs and economic growth, reinforcing New York’s position as a leader in sustainability. 

Of the total funding, $100 million will be allocated to SUNY institutions. Binghamton University will develop thermal energy networks and install heat pumps, cutting energy use by 45% and saving $300,000 in operational costs. The University at Buffalo will become the first energy hub to phase out fossil fuels and improve energy efficiency. SUNY Oswego will implement a geothermal system to lower emissions and energy consumption, while Stony Brook University will expand solar installations to help decarbonize Long Island’s electric grid. 

Meanwhile, $50 million will be directed toward CUNY campuses. The City College of New York will install solar canopies, battery storage, EV charging stations, and heat pumps to advance electrification efforts. Brooklyn College will integrate geothermal heating and cooling systems, rooftop solar panels, and additional EV chargers. Hunter College will transition from inefficient steam-based heating to an energy-efficient hot and chilled water system, further reducing its environmental impact. 

Governor Hochul emphasized that New York’s public colleges play a vital role in leading the transition to clean energy. SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. and CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez echoed their commitment to sustainability. With over $1 billion allocated for climate initiatives in New York’s Executive Budget, this investment reinforces the state’s leadership in ESG policies and carbon neutrality, ensuring its public institutions contribute to a more sustainable future. 

Sources : 

https://esgnews.com/nys-governor-hochul-announces-150m-in-clean-energy-project-grants-for-new-york-public-colleges/ 

https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-150-million-investments-clean-water-clean-air-and-green-jobs 

https://muckrack.com/media-outlet/esgnews 

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