New York State is known around the country for its innovative approaches to energy conservation and clean energy. One big reason for that is the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, know better by its acronym NYSERDA.

Ed Cox, Frank Murray, Marcia Bystryn and Kevin Corbett at our September Eco-Partners Breakfast.That agency's President and CEO, Frank Murray. met with members of NYLCVEF's Eco-Partners Program this week to talk about what's coming down New York's energy planning pipeline.

Solar energy is playing a prominent role in New York's energy future, Murray noted, with some $700 million set aside for Gov. Andrew Cuomo's NY-Sun and other solar plans.

Another important development is the so-called Energy Highway, which will help connect upstate energy sources with downstate's populated areas. Murray said that 85 developers have submitted proposals for the Energy Highway, with more than a hundred specific ideas about steps New York can take to harness upstate's economic potential.

But perhaps the most interesting thing the state is working on is a comprehensive energy plan. Murray said the release of the plan was slated for early this fall; more time is needed to integrate the Energy Highway proposals into the energy plan. Murray confirmed that renewable energy -- like solar and wind -- will play a key role in the upcoming plan. 

NYCLVEF's Eco-Partners Program helps the environmental and business communities find common ground, and our breakfast gatherings with influential policymakers always draw a crowd. Click here to learn how your company can become an NYLCVEF Eco-Partners.