NYSERDA wins two Clean Energy States Alliance awards for Wind Power and Clean Energy Incubator programs

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has been awarded two 2012 State Leadership in Clean Energy (SLICE) Awards for programs promoting wind power and a clean-energy-focused business incubator program. The Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA) chose seven projects in five states that represent exemplary leadership and innovation in clean energy development. CESA is a national nonprofit organization representing the collective voice of public clean energy funds. Both New York programs - the Clean Energy Business Incubator Initiative and the On-Site Wind Market Development Program - were selected for the role of advancing technology, finance and clean energy policy in the state, according to CESA. "We are very appreciative and proud that CESA has recognized NYSERDA's Clean Energy Business Incubator Initiative and the On-Site Wind Market Development Programs, and the role both have played in promoting clean energy and economic development in New York State," said Francis Murray Jr., president and CEO, NYSERDA. "Under governor Cuomo's leadership, the State is committed to investing in innovation that will stimulate the cleantech economy, expand its renewable energy portfolio and provide environmental stewardship." Both programs have seen significant success. NYSERDA has provided $6.2 million in funding for its On-Site Wind program supporting 138 on-site wind turbines generating nearly 5,000 MWh annually in clean, renewable energy. The Clean Energy Business Incubator program has worked with 94 clients in the past three years, helping the start-ups raise a total of $74 million in private funds while creating 48 new products and 193 new jobs. Some of these firms have since graduated from the incubators and achieved national exposure. Other entities receiving the State Leadership in Clean Energy awards include the California Energy Commission, the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and the Connecticut Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority. "Despite hostile economic conditions and uncertainty over continuing levels of federal support, the SLICE Award-winning state programs have demonstrated innovation, supported emerging technologies, and advanced clean energy markets," said Mark Sinclair, executive director of CESA. "After a decade of experience working with clean energy funds across the country, CESA feels confident that these programs represent the best of what's out there today." The SLICE awards were presented to winners on Oct. 22, at a reception held during the CESA Fall Members Meeting in Albany, hosted by NYSERDA.