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Embracing clean energy requires many shifts in the ways we produce and consume energy.

Read about acts and laws that are driving change to make our world a cleaner, greener place. The references below also detail energy education available outside of the SUNY system, and clean energy incentives that reduce the financial burden of going green.

Clean Energy Standard

New York’s Clean Energy Standard (CES) was established to help combat climate change, decrease harmful air pollution, and help secure a distinct and dependable low-carbon energy supply. Initially implemented in 2016, the CES was broadened in 2020 to align with the progressing targets set by the Climate Act. This legislation aims to reach 70% of the state’s electricity to be sourced from renewable energy by 2030 while striving for a zero-emission electric grid by 2040.

Initiatives Aimed at Achieving These Goals:
  • Prioritizing low carbon energy sources including solar, wind, and hydropower
  • Enforcing compliance with the Renewable Energy Standard (RES) and Zero-Emissions Credit (ZEC) requirements for all load-serving entities.
New York’s nation-leading climate goals and rapidly growing renewable energy development are driving investment, decreasing greenhouse emissions, and enhancing energy efficiency to reduce energy demands. These initiatives are also fostering economic development and driving additional career opportunities across the New York State region.
Learn more about the Clean Energy Standard (CES)

NYS Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act

NYPA Press Release
Through our collective actions, we’re protecting our State’s natural resources, creating economic opportunities, and ensuring a brighter future for us all.
  • At least 35% of benefits directed to disadvantaged communities.
  • 70% of the State’s electricity will be generated by renewable energy by 2030.
  • 100% zero-emissions electricity by 2040.
  • NYPA to lead state in ending fossil fuel use at its peaker power plants by 2030.
Read the latest NYS clean energy bill, signed by Governor Cuomo in 2019 here.
Senate Bill S6599
NYPA Press Release

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

(NYSERDA)

NYSERDA has many clean energy programs and initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emission, accelerate economic growth, and improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers equitably.

A spotlight of the many programs NYSERDA offers to support the clean energy transition are:

  • Energy Evaluation & Management
  • Lending & Financing
  • Policies & Codes
  • Renewables
  • Heating & Cooling
  • Transportation
  • Workforce development
NYSERDA Clean Energy Program Listing
NYS Energy Goal Progress

The Federal Sustainability Plan

President Biden’s Executive Order 14057 on catalyzing American clean energy industries and jobs through Federal sustainability and accompanying Federal Sustainability Plan sets out a range of ambitious goals to deliver an emissions reduction pathway consistent with President Biden’s goals.
  • 100% Carbon Pollution-Free Electricity by 2030, including 50% on a 24/7 basis
  • 100% Zero-Emission Vehicle Acquisitions by 2035, including 100% light-duty acquisitions by 2027
  • Net-Zero Emissions Buildings by 2045, including a 50% reduction by 2032
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DEC Sustainability Plan 2023 - 2028

The Sustainability Plan from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation lays out essential strategies aimed at fostering environmental sustainability. The plan emphasizes on the importance of collaborative efforts with stakeholders, developing approaches in policy, technology, and proactive adaption to climate change impacts as pivotal elements in realizing sustainability objectives. Additionally, it underscores the imperative to:
  • Safeguard natural resources
  • Curb greenhouse gas emissions
  • Advance renewable energy initiatives
  • Strengthen community resilience
  • Support environmental justice
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Department of Energy

The department of energy is on the pathway to 100% clean electricity. Rapid decarbonization of the power sector is a critical strategy for meeting the nation’s climate goals of reducing economy-wide greenhouse gases by 50-52% below 2005 levels in 2030, on the way to net-zero economy-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by no later than 2050. Read more about their efforts here.

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