Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Sept. 20 the launch of a new program, to push New York City toward reducing carbon footprint and defeat the impacts of climate change dubbed Electrify New York City (ElectrifyNYC).
“New York City is on the frontline of the climate crisis, and our response must empower New Yorkers to take action today while setting a clear path for an equitable and sustainable future,” de Blasio said.
ElectrifyNYC is run by the Mayor’s Office of Climate and Sustainability, and is designed to offer equitable access to green technologies, including one- to four-unit family homes and contractors.
In partnership with Kinetic Communities and Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens, the program is aiming to improve indoor and local air quality, increase tenants’ comfort, reduce maintenance costs, and increase homeownership and housing affordability for low-income homeowners in the borough.
The program — rather than using fossil fuel gas or oil for heating — relies on air source heat pumps and solar panel installations for electrification, which helps lower energy costs. These emissions generated from heating, cooling and powering one- to four-family homes account for 20% of New York City’s greenhouse gas emissions.
This enterprise is also determined to prioritize minority and women-owned businesses by making green jobs available. This will eventually help the city’s economy and it also supports carbon neutrality in the neighborhoods.
“After the tumultuous year Queens residents and all New Yorkers have had, we are looking for any and all resources to aid homeowners and small businesses as our city continues to recover,” Senator Leroy Comrie said.
ElectrifyNYC will provide necessary resources to uplift New Yorkers into the clean energy future, and ensure communities have safe and resilient home situations — especially in the face of natural disasters, such as the recent Hurricane Ida.
Hurricane Ida’s remnants was the most recent event that caused much damage to Queens, including excessive flooding and several deaths.
“Hurricane Ida reminds us of the critical need for investment in our neighborhoods and the infrastructure for low- and moderate-income households. ElectrifyNYC is an opportunity to ensure our communities have access to solar readiness and energy efficiency. We look forward to collaboration with the team, providing climate solutions for New Yorkers with the highest needs. We commend NYSERDA for investing in where we live and providing much-needed resources to our devastated communities in Queens,” said Yoselin Genao Estrella, executive director of Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens.
New York City homeowners one- to four-unit family homes, particularly low- and moderate-income families in Queens and Staten Island, can have access to free assistance with finding tailored energy solutions for their buildings, financial incentives and professional contractors by contacting ElectrifyNYC at ElectrifyNYC@KC3.nyc and 718-500-0172.
