2007

Release: Immediate, December 10, 2007
Contact:  Colleen Ryan, NYSERDA,
518-862-1090, ext. 3359 or cqr@nyserda.org

NYSERDA Offers Energy Education Grants
Governor Spitzer’s 15 by 15 initiative will serve as the educational theme for projects

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) today announced the availability of Energy Education Grants to promote energy education in classrooms and non-traditional educational settings. Under NYSERDA’s Energy Smart Students Program, grants of $500 each will be awarded to 30 educators in New York State who provide the best plans for innovative, educational projects that demonstrate the principles of Governor Spitzer’s 15 by 15 initiative.

The Energy Smart Students Program is designed to help students and teachers become more energy conscious. The program, sponsored by NYSERDA, seeks educators as partners in empowering students to carry the message of energy efficiency home. The program provides classroom materials on energy basics, the current energy scene, renewable and non-renewable sources of energy, and energy efficiency.

NYSERDA President and CEO, Paul D. Tonko said, “Today’s students will inherit the benefits of our energy and environment commitments, and are the agents of change. These energy grants will inspire our young minds with smart energy thinking, who will, in turn, inspire their families, communities and each other to use energy wisely and in an environmentally responsible way. Many of today’s students will also carry this thinking into career paths which will provide the solutions and innovations to solve the energy challenges of tomorrow.”

The grant program provides educators and students with opportunities to learn about energy and its impact on the environment and economy in a hands-on educational experience. Through creative approaches to energy education, students will learn that every New Yorker can help achieve the State’s energy goals and reduce our carbon footprint.

The theme of this year’s grant program is based upon Governor Eliot Spitzer’s “15 by 15” initiative. Under this initiative, introduced earlier this year, the State will reduce electricity consumption by 15 percent below forecasted level by the year 2015. Educators and students can take part in this goal by creating and implementing projects that will increase their knowledge of energy and promote energy awareness in the community. Examples of projects include student-led energy audits, community energy fairs, and other hands-on activities related to energy efficiency and conservation.

To be considered for the grant, the projects must highlight how individuals and/or organizations can help meet the goals of the 15 by 15 Initiative. The grant program is available to classroom teachers, after-school club leaders and community educators. Projects must be completed by June 2008.

Applications are due by December 28, 2007 . Awards will be announced on January 15, 2008 . For more information on how to apply for an Energy Education Grant, visit www.GetEnergySmart.org or contact 1-877-NYSMART.

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