During a conversation Thursday at the Hearst Tower in New York City with reporter Dan Clark, Gov. Kathy Hochul stated the state’s aggressive climate law was becoming costly to implement, like congestion pricing. Because Hochul paused congestion pricing, Capital Tonight asked Doreen Harris, president and CEO of NYSERDA – the New York State Energy, Research and Development Authority – if the administration had plans to pause the implementation of its already delayed climate goals. Harris said no.

“Absolutely not. And instead, what we are seeing is this market response. Clearly, change takes time but at the same time, when we set these goals, we see the market responding in ways that are truly transforming our economy and, and, benefitting New Yorkers. So, our commitment remains firm,” she said.

The conversation, which included Rory Christian, chair and CEO of the New York State Public Service Commission, also touched on the violent storms to hit New York state this week, and Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s critical audit of the state’s climate implementation. 

Below, find links to state and federal programs to help you afford home electrification: 

NYSERDA's EmPower+ Program helps low- and moderate-income households save energy and money toward energy improvements made to their primary residence. Through EmPower+, eligible New Yorkers can receive: 

• No-cost comprehensive home energy assessments to pinpoint where energy and dollars are being wasted and receive a customized plan to lower energy usage.
•  No-cost direct install improvements identified during the assessment can be installed by participating program contractors. Funding toward the cost of energy efficiency improvements, including air sealing, insulation, heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and electrical service and wiring upgrades.

The program is open to income-eligible owners and renters of one- to four-family households.

NYSERDA's Home Energy Assessment Program provides New Yorkers with a top-to-bottom look at where their home is wasting energy and flags any potential health or safety issues. All New York homeowners of one-to-four family homes can get a no-cost energy assessment. New Yorkers can follow the steps below:

• Schedule a home energy assessment. 
• Work with your Participating Auditor to customize a plan to lower your energy bills. 
• Apply for available financing to help pay for the work (optional).                                                                                                                                                                                                 

NYSERDA’s Comfort Home program makes it easy to make smart investments for a more efficient home now and more affordable clean heating options in the future. It all starts with a no-fee consultation with a trained and qualified contractor who will help you select the improvement package that is right for you, including available rebates and financing. Comfort Home packages may include: 

• Sealing air leaks insulation upgrades for ceilings, floors, and walls, high performance windows

Are you an income-eligible New Yorker, or do you own affordable housing? New York Energy Advisor can help you spend less on energy and create healthier and more comfortable spaces. All you need to do is answer a few simple questions and we’ll connect you with energy-saving offers in New York state.