Net-Zero Resilience Preparation for Municipal and Rural Electric Providers

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is seeking innovative net‑zero or deep‑decarbonization demonstrations to be implemented in the service territories of New York municipal electric utilities or rural cooperatives. The program provides up to $1 million total funding, with a maximum award of $500,000 per project, to support technologies such as heat‑pump systems, building‑shell retrofits, and air‑sealing. Applicants may be the utilities themselves or other entities that secure a letter of commitment from a qualifying NY utility or cooperative. Projects must include baseline data, performance analysis, benefit‑cost evaluation, and a clear path to replication, especially in disadvantaged communities. Deliverables include quarterly progress reports, annual metrics reports, a site agreement (if needed), and a final technical report with draft and final versions. The contract term is expected to be 1–3 years, and award decisions are anticipated roughly 10 weeks after the August 24, 2026 deadline. • Funding: up to $500 k per award (total pool $1 M). • Eligible participants: NY municipal utilities, rural cooperatives, or partners with a signed commitment letter. • Scope: demonstration of net‑zero technologies (heat‑pumps, building retrofits, air sealing) with data collection, analysis, and replication planning. • Deliverables: quarterly reports, annual metrics, site agreement, draft & final reports. • Timeline: proposals due Aug 24 2026; award notification ~10 weeks later; contract length 1‑3 years.