NY’s Pathway to 6 GW Energy Storage by 2030

New York (NY) State’s Governor, Kathy Hochul has announced a new framework for achieving six gigawatts (GW) of energy storage by 2030. 

New York skyline. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock

The roadmap proposal has the potential to help NY generate 70 percent of its electricity from renewables by 2030 and 100 percent emissions-free electricity by 2040 (following goals set out by the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act).

 

Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

In addition to welcoming in renewable energy sources, the new framework for NY State is set to change the quality of its air by reducing the emissions of polluting greenhouse gas emissions. 

The roadmap is intended to reduce emissions, bolster renewable energy uptake, strengthen power grid resiliency, and reduce NY State’s electric system costs by about $2 billion in the future. 

Battery storage. Image used courtesy of Axis Capital

The continuation of renewable energy integration into existing and evolving infrastructure is expected to benefit the economy by introducing clean energy jobs to the people of NY. Tradespeople within the construction industry are expected to benefit from well-remunerated job opportunities. 

The roadmap for expanding energy storage for NY is set to impact customer average electricity bills by around $0.46 per month. 

 

Large-scale Battery Energy Storage

Large-scale battery energy storage is an emerging technology that can help reduce the need for peaker plants and improve the efficiency of electricity grids. 

Battery energy storage systems can store excess energy during times of low demand and then release it back into the grid when demand increases, reducing the need for peaker plants, which are used to generate electricity during periods of peak demand. By gradually phasing out peaker plants with battery energy storage, countries like the U.S. can create a more efficient and sustainable electricity grid.
 

The 57th and first female Governor of NY State, Kathy Hochul. Image used courtesy of NY State

New York’s roadmap involves implementing NY State Energy Research and Development Agency (NYSERDA)-led programs that aim to bring in new storage projects. NYSERDA has been working alongside the Department of Public Service (DPS) to assess market reforms and cost-effective procurement methods to get closer to the target of 6 GW.

Projects include 1,500 MW of retail storage, 3,000 MW of bulk storage, and 200 MW of residential storage. This amounts to 4.7 GW of energy storage, in addition to a further 1.3 MW of existing storage currently under contract with NY State. Progress is being made toward commercial operation. 

Thirty-five percent of program funds will be funneled into projects that aid disadvantaged communities. Support will also be provided to projects that tackle emissions from fossil-fuel-run peaker plants. Utilities will be involved in assessing which energy storage projects can deliver low-cost distribution and transmission services.