NYSERDA Expands Funding Opportunities Through FlexTech Program

In November 2023, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) released several updates to its Flexible Technical Assistance (FlexTech) Program. Under this program, commercial, multifamily, and industrial entities are eligible to apply for funding from NYSERDA to complete energy efficiency-related work. If you are interested in conducting a study to learn more about the ways you can reduce carbon emissions in your operations, read on!

The main goal of the FlexTech Program is to help fund “credible, objective technical assistance services.” The technical services that NYSERDA prioritizes through this program are energy studies and the exploration of clean heating/cooling options.

Customers who want to conduct an energy study at their facility must work with a consultant who can complete the scope. The consultant can either be a preapproved NYSERDA FlexTech Consultant or an independent service provider of the customer’s choosing.

After the consultant completes the study, they will offer the customer recommendations of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) based on their analyses. ECMs outline the consultant’s suggestions for some of the best ways that the customer can make changes to improve energy efficiency. If the customer chooses to implement these measures in the future, they will lead to positive outcomes including reduced carbon emissions and operating cost savings.

What are some of the recent changes to the FlexTech Program?

Following November’s round of FlexTech Program revisions, funding opportunities through this program have been expanded. Certain non-public schools will benefit from the revision as NYSERDA will now fund up to 100% of the cost of their studies conducted under the FlexTech Program. Under a different NYSERDA program, the P-12 Schools Clean Green Schools Initiative, public schools that are located in disadvantaged communities or are otherwise considered high-need have been able to receive up to 100% of the funding needed to complete clean energy projects. However, non-public schools are not included in this program. Now, as a result of the FlexTech Program revisions, non-public schools located in disadvantaged communities may have their projects fully funded through the FlexTech Program.

FlexTech Program funding is also currently available to hospitals in disadvantaged communities and safety net hospitals. NYSERDA will cover up to 100% of the cost of studies up to $1,000,000 – however, this funding is only available for a limited time, so do not wait to apply if you are interested!

Learning about the many energy-related funding opportunities available is a big task. Walden’s green energy team is working hard to stay up-to-date on various programs and can help you identify and apply to those that are the best fit for you. Walden is a NYSERDA FlexTech Consultant, and we are prepared to work with you to complete your study through the FlexTech Program (or any other applicable NYSERDA programs). Call us at 516-518-3705 to discuss your needs today.