• $150M for Clean Energy: SUNY receives $100M, CUNY gets $50M for climate-friendly campus upgrades.
• Major Decarbonization Projects: Thermal energy networks, solar, EV charging, and geothermal systems to cut pollution and energy costs.
• Union Jobs & Economic Growth: Investments drive job creation while advancing New York’s climate goals.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced $150 million in funding to decarbonize public college campuses in New York. The investment, part of the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022, supports sustainability projects at SUNY and CUNY institutions.

Why It Matters:

• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and operating costs.
• Modernizes campus infrastructure with clean energy solutions.
• Creates jobs and promotes New York’s green economy.

SUNY Upgrades ($100M):

• Binghamton University: Thermal energy networks and heat pumps cut energy use by 45% and operational costs by $300K.
• University at Buffalo: First energy hub to phase out fossil fuels and improve efficiency.
• SUNY Oswego: Geothermal system to reduce energy costs and emissions.
• Stony Brook University: Solar installations to decarbonize Long Island’s electric grid.

Related Article: New York Governor Commits $1 Billion Climate Investment for Jobs, Clean Energy

CUNY Upgrades ($50M):

• City College of New York: Solar canopies, battery storage, EV chargers, and heat pumps for electrification.
• Brooklyn College: Geothermal heating and cooling, rooftop solar, and EV charging stations.
• Hunter College: Transition from inefficient steam to energy-efficient hot and chilled water systems.

What They’re Saying:

“New York’s higher education institutions play a significant role in leading by example to help advance a cleaner, greener future.” – Gov. Kathy Hochul

“SUNY’s campuses are leading the way in advancing sustainability and addressing climate change.” – SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr.

“The Environmental Bond Act investments announced today will help CUNY play a key role in the development of a resilient, responsible, and resourceful New York.” – CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez

Bigger Picture:

• New York’s Executive Budget includes over $1B for climate initiatives.
• $108M allocated for coastal resiliency and green grants.
• To date, $1.25B of the $4.2B Environmental Bond Act has been distributed.

New York continues leading in sustainability, ensuring its public institutions play a key role in the transition to a clean energy economy.

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