PRESS RELEASE - June 26, 2024 - Albany, NY
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $8.5 million has been awarded for the development of innovative nature-based solutions to lower emissions and sequester carbon through Round 1 of the Natural Carbon Solutions Innovation Challenge (Challenge). In addition, more than $13 million is now available through Round 2 of the Challenge for projects that mitigate the impacts of extreme heat and reduce building emissions with a focus on providing direct benefits to those most vulnerable to extreme heat, including disadvantaged communities. Today’s announcements support the State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 85 percent by 2050.
“When faced with any challenge, New Yorkers roll up their sleeves and look for a path forward including finding new ways to beat the excessive heat that has become the norm in our climate crisis battle,” Governor Hochul said. “These investments are part of a larger commitment to ensuring resilient and healthier communities for those most vulnerable to rising temperatures, while creating economic opportunities and establishing New York as an innovation hub for climate solutions.”
The seven projects selected through the Challenge, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), will contribute to emissions reductions and more resilient living environments. Proposals were solicited for innovative solutions to increase carbon sequestration, reduce waste methane emissions, and advance building shell retrofits and new construction approaches that are key to achieving New York's climate goals. In addition, NYSERDA encouraged proposals that could benefit underserved communities and environmental justice areas by optimizing land use, increasing resilience and renewable energy deployment, reducing air and water pollution, providing cost savings for energy services, and stimulating job creation in climate smart industries.
Hempitecture Inc. will receive $1.1 million to develop and manufacture a innovative bio-based insulation product using regionally grown industrial hemp fibers. The project will measure the performance, greenhouse gas emissions, and costs associated with the loose-fill low carbon insulation. Product demonstration and manufacturing assessment will be in the Grow-NY Region.
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Each year New York faces the challenges and risks associated with more frequent extreme heat events, which this new round of funding is designed to address. We are excited to follow the progress of awarded projects and to see the new solutions brought forward with potential for lowering emissions that contribute to the ever-changing climate and reducing demands on the grid during times of excessive heat.”