New York Launches Clean Energy Workforce Training Initiative

February 27, 2008

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) unveiled a $6-million clean energy workforce training initiative on February 25. NYSERDA will invest more than $4 million in a range of clean energy sectors including solar photovoltaic systems, small wind turbines, and biogas energy systems. An additional $2 million is included in the Governor's Executive Budget for developing the solar workforce through programs at community colleges across New York State. The intent of the new efforts is to help develop a workforce that can design, install, and maintain renewable energy systems to ensure the successful implementation and promotion of renewable energy technologies in New York State. New York has already invested nearly $1 million to develop seven accredited solar training centers and continuing education programs across the state. See the NYSERDA press release and the pamphlet about New York's Solar Electric Practitioner Training Centers (PDF 311 KB). Download Adobe Reader.

As noted in the NYSERDA press release, the agency is also seeking to establish a Wind Energy Research and Testing Center in New York. Although still in the preliminary stages of discussion and planning, the center would catalyze and support research in such topics as advanced materials, power electronics, turbine design, wind forecasting, and environmental impact assessment. The proposed Center would also provide resources to test new products while helping to provide a highly skilled workforce to meet the needs of the quickly growing wind power industry.