In a significant move towards achieving New York's ambitious clean energy targets, Governor Kathy Hochul revealed the timeline for upcoming offshore wind and land-based renewable energy solicitations. These solicitations, set to be released on November 30, 2023, with bids due in January 2024, are part of the state's 10-Point Action Plan to strengthen its flourishing large-scale renewable industry.

New York's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goals entail sourcing 70 percent of the state's electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and developing 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2035. By expediting these solicitations, Governor Hochul aims to proactively address challenges in the clean energy sector and maintain New York's position as a climate leader.

The solicitations will support projects submitted to the New York State Public Service Commission for financial relief, ensuring fair competition and maximum value for New York electricity consumers. Through this process, the state strives to keep up with the targets outlined in the Climate Act, further propelling its commitment to a greener future.

For the offshore wind solicitation, the deadline for final proposals is set for January 25, 2024. The award announcements are expected to be made by the end of February 2024. Meanwhile, the land-based renewables solicitation will have a two-step submission process. The eligibility requirements for proposals are due on December 21, 2023, followed by the final proposals on January 31, 2024. The award announcements for land-based projects are projected to be made by the end of April 2024.

President and CEO of the New York State Energy and Research Development Authority (NYSERDA), Doreen M. Harris, highlighted the importance of these solicitations in adapting to market conditions and facilitating the rapid deployment of renewable energy. She emphasized the alignment of New York's renewable projects with market demands, ensuring affordable costs for consumers while achieving Climate Act goals.

These expedited solicitations build on the momentum generated by Governor Hochul's recent announcement of the largest state investment in renewable energy in U.S. history. With three offshore wind projects and 22 land-based renewable energy projects awarded, totaling 6.4 gigawatts of clean energy, New York is poised to power 2.6 million homes and meet approximately 12 percent of the state's electricity needs upon completion. Furthermore, these projects are predicted to create around 8,300 family-sustaining jobs and drive $20 billion in economic development investments, including commitments to disadvantaged communities.

With its nation-leading climate plan, New York State is committed to a just transition that creates sustainable jobs and fosters a green economy across all sectors. The state aims to direct at least 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of clean energy benefits towards disadvantaged communities. By 2040, New York plans to achieve a zero-emission electricity sector, including 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030 and overall carbon neutrality by mid-century.

This transition is supported by substantial clean energy investments, totaling over $55 billion, in large-scale renewable and transmission projects, emission reduction initiatives, solar expansion, clean transportation, and NY Green Bank commitments. The clean energy sector in New York currently employs more than 165,000 individuals, with a remarkable 3,000 percent growth in the distributed solar sector since 2011. To further combat climate change, New York has implemented regulations requiring all new passenger cars and light-duty trucks sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035.

As New York continues to advance its climate action agenda, partnerships with Climate Smart Communities, Clean Energy Communities, and targeted air monitoring initiatives in disadvantaged areas are instrumental in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality across the state.

Governor Hochul's expedited renewable energy solicitations mark a milestone in New York's journey towards a greener, more sustainable future. By mobilizing the state's clean energy industry, New York is well on its way to achieving its climate goals and setting an example for other regions around the world.