NYSERDA Press Releases - 2000

Media inquiries should be addressed to Thomas G. Collins at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3250.

Other NYSERDA-Related Press Releases (2000)

Testimony

• William M. Flynn before U.S. House of Representatives Sub-Committee on the Coast Guard and Marine Transportation - 3/29/00
• William M. Flynn before U.S. Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs - 3/24/00

Press Releases (2000)

• Governor Pataki Announces $4.2 Million High-Tech Farm Initiative - 11/15/2000
• Buffalo Companies Receive Support for Energy Projects - 11/1/2000
• Capital Region Companies Receive Support for Energy Projects - 11/1/2000
• NYSERDA Cites Eleven Partners for 25 Year “Pioneer Awards;” Projects Enhance Energy Efficiency, Economy and the Environment
• Saratoga Race Course Harnessing the Earth’s Energy - 8/31/00
• Local Energy Expert Wins International Award - 8/14/00
• State Offers New Energy Loans Through Banks at 4.5% Discount - 6/15/00
• NYSERDA Launches TP-1 Transformer Project Program to Increase Sales of Energy Star® Transformers - 6/5/00
• NYSERDA Contract to Automate Fresnel Optics, Inc. Operations; $528,000 Cuts Production Costs, Supports NY Solar Energy Industry - 5/24/00
• NYSERDA Project Seeks to Aggregate Backup Generators - 5/1/00
• NYSERDA and Davis Aircraft Products Addressing Hidden Costs of Heating Homes - 4/24/00
• Buffalo and Erie County Cited for Rebuild Niagara Frontier Partnership; NYSERDA Praises Government, Business, Environmental Partnership - 4/22/00
• Liquified Natural Gas Market Potential Explored; Storage, Transport, New Markets Set in NYSERDA Contract - 4/18/00
• The Promotion of Energy-Efficient Products Escalates with the Help of More Than 250 New York Retailers - 4/14/00
• New York State Wins National “Excellence in Consumer Education” Award - 3/21/00

• NYSERDA and ECR International’s Dunkirk Division Developing Self-Powered Heating Systems - 1/24/00

GOVERNOR PATAKI ANNOUNCES $4.2 MILLION HIGH-TECH FARM INITIATIVE 40 Projects to Improve Production and Profits, Manage Waste at New York Farms

FOR RELEASE:
IMMEDIATE, Wednesday
November 15, 2000
Contact: Ray Hull, 518-862-1090, ext. 3356

Governor George E. Pataki today announced $4.2 million for projects to bring high-tech energy and agricultural improvements to New York farms. The 40 projects promote new, energy-efficient and environmentally-secure agricultural production that can increase profits at dairy, crop, livestock and fruit farms.

"Agriculture is a vital part of our State's economy and we are committed to improving the future of New York farms through innovative technology," Governor Pataki said. "These projects will help farmers across the State reduce their energy costs and take advantage of new technologies that can improve a farm's bottom line."

The diverse research and development (R&D) and electric efficiency services (EES) projects include fuel cells run on farm wastes, indoor fish and vegetable production and installation of variable speed drives on milking pumps at more than 200 farms, universities and farm cooperatives across the state.

The $3.7 million in R&D contracts focus on new technologies, many that are being developed and introduced to the agricultural sector for the first time. The EES contracts include smaller electric conservation measures aimed at specific farm applications. For example, at 150 farms across the state, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is coordinating the installation of variable speed drives on milking vacuum pumps. These controls typically yield a 40-50% savings on pump electricity consumption. In addition, NYSERDA is offering other audit and financial incentives to promote energy efficiency in 11 other farms across the State.

The contracts include $4,244,459 in State funds and $7,436,745 in cooperative funding secured by NYSERDA, for a total project value of $11,681,204. NYSERDA developed and will manage the projects.

NYSERDA Chairman, William R. Howell said, "Energy is a major factor in farm budgets and we are committed to helping farmers reduce their overall operating expenses. Whether it's milking, processing or the refrigeration of produce, these energy conservation projects will help the competitiveness and viability of New York farms."

NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Nathan Rudgers said, "These projects offer new, value-added products and technologies to family farms, and help ensure a profitable future. The advancement of these high-tech contracts comes from a partnership of State government, farm organizations, universities and individual farmers, and much of the technology is being developed right here, in New York. This is yet another example of Governor Pataki's support for New York Agriculture."

John Lincoln, President of the New York Farm Bureau said, "The Farm Bureau is helping to promote NYSERDA's efforts and we encourage our members to get involved in these projects. Their success can affect the future and profitability of every farm. New York markets are hungry for these products and we can beat the competition through efficient production."

R&D Project Areas

The R&D projects focus on major farm costs and waste management issues. Animal and crop processing wastes are environmental problems, as well as energy intensive to handle. About a dozen projects aim to reuse farm wastes, particularly through anaerobic digestion and conversion of those wastes to fuel or saleable compost. About half of the R&D funding is dedicated to waste management at dairy, poultry and other farm corporations, several Cornell University programs, and the New York City Watershed Agricultural Council.

The balance of the R&D funds concentrates on energy technologies, crop and livestock production and aquaculture, including ethanol production from New York corn, and using biogas from animal wastes to power fuel cells and microturbines that produce electricity.

Another demonstration evaluates microturbine cogeneration technology on a sheep farm. A lighting project is investigating the use of lamps to "extend the day" and increase milk production.

Six projects, at three Tompkins County sites, promote aquaculture, the growth of vegetables and fish, indoors. Two of these sites are already selling products across the state. One new fish farm project will expand the potential for Tilapia fish to become a family farm, indoor crop. The controlled environment agriculture (CEA) vegetable projects seek to add spinach to the list of crops, along with lettuce, that can be grown in soil-less greenhouses.

Livestock production will be improved with a $107,258 conceptual design contract for an energy-efficient and environmentally-secure hog farm. Another livestock effort, among central New York farm cooperative members, promotes the raising and sale of meadow-raised meats, from animals raised in open, natural farm environments with no added hormones. An organic wool scouring facility is also being developed.

Fruit and vegetable processing and wastes will be studied on two farms. One is a collaborative demonstration to optimize the peeling and packaging of market-ready butternut squash, while the second seeks to convert apple waste to stable livestock feed.

Energy Efficiency Services

Energy efficiency projects include the variable speed drive (VSD) controls for milk pumping equipment. The project at 150 farms across the State is expected to save more than 3 million kilowatt hours of electricity, or $376,000 each year. NYSERDA will provide an incentive based on the actual savings achieved. Other energy efficiency projects include six new construction incentives to encourage installation of higher efficiency farm equipment and promote farm energy audits.

These agricultural initiatives are among dozens of projects funded by NYSERDA to improve energy efficiency, benefit the State's environment and encourage economic growth. NYSERDA, a public-benefit corporation, helps develop new energy and environmental programs and products, including the New York Energy $mart^SM program. NYSERDA's funding comes from the State's investor-owned utilities, a voluntary contribution from the New York Power Authority, Long Island Power Authority and limited NYSERDA funds.

R&D, EES Project lists attachment

Research and Development Agricultural Projects

Energy Efficiency Service Agricultural Projects

Buffalo Companies Receive Support for Energy Projects

RELEASE: IMMEDIATE, November 1, 2000
CONTACT: Tom Collins, NYSERDA
(518) 862-1090, ext. 3250.

Albany, NY – Four Buffalo-based companies recently received more than $405,000 from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) for a variety of energy efficiency and research projects that will save energy, develop new energy products or processes, promote job growth and economic development opportunities, and preserve the region’s environment. NYSERDA works with companies throughout the State to help them identify, implement, and finance cost-effective energy efficiency strategies that can be incorporated into facilities and manufacturing processes to save money. In addition, NYSERDA helps companies throughout the State develop and commercialize new products that will also lead to energy savings or reduced demand for petroleum-derived energy. The projects recently funded in Buffalo include:

• Two awards totaling $365,000 to Buffalo China for two projects. In the first project, NYSERDA will help Buffalo China optimize its ceramic glazing process and reduce waste materials resulting from the process. Reducing the amount of lead glaze “over spray” as well as the associated treatment and disposal costs required for handling wastes containing lead will improve indoor air quality in the manufacturing facility and significantly reduce costs. Successfully optimizing the glazing process to reduce wastes and their associated disposal costs could save Buffalo China as much as $520,000 per year. In the second project, NYSERDA is helping Buffalo China test a more economical pressing technique than the company is currently using to manufacture dinnerware. The new technique, known as dry pressing, will help Buffalo China save energy by reducing the amount of time needed for “firing” the products in a kiln. If successful, Buffalo China could reduce the amount of scrap generated by up to 310 tons per year. In addition, the dry pressing process could help to more than double productivity from the plant and could potentially save Buffalo China more than $4 million per year in operating costs.

• An award of more than $25,000 to Outokumpu American Brass to fund an energy efficiency study in order to reduce some of the company’s energy expenses, which total more than $11.6 million a year. The study recommended installing new equipment to improve air handling within the facility, which will save energy and improve indoor air quality. In addition, the study recommended heat recovery equipment to capture and reuse waste heat from natural gas-fired equipment in the facility and improve the efficiency of natural gas use. These improvements will save Outokumpu American Brass about $760,000 annually in energy costs, which will pay for the cost of implementing the measures in a little more than 5 years.

• An award of $13,100 to Buffalo Color Corporation, which manufactures the blue dye used in producing blue jeans. In an effort to reduce the $2.7 million in annual energy costs it pays, Buffalo Color contacted NYSERDA to conduct an energy efficiency study that would identify cost-effective efficiency improvements. Based on an analysis of the company’s manufacturing process, the study provided recommendations that will lower energy consumption by about 20%, paying for the cost to implement the measures in about 1.5 years.

• An award of $1,900 to Jentsch & Company, Inc., which employs 12 people and specializes in fabricating steel pipes, I-beams, and angle pieces for customers throughout the country. Portions of its facility were constructed in 1890 while a 10,000 square-foot addition was added in 1971. The company requested that NYSERDA conduct an energy efficiency study to help it evaluate a broad range of efficiency opportunities. The study identified about $12,880 worth of improvements, including upgrading the facility’s lighting system, improving the building envelope, and consolidating the electric service. The annual energy savings generated as a result of the improvements are about $2,800, which would pay for the cost to make these upgrades in about 4.6 years.

NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, supports research to develop technologies that help New York save energy and reduce emissions. NYSERDA also helps New York State businesses develop energy and environmental products, commercializing the type of high-value-added products that give New York State businesses a real chance to compete in the expanding global marketplace.

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110100-21

Capital Region Companies Receive Support
for Energy Projects

RELEASE: IMMEDIATE, November 1, 2000
CONTACT: Tom Collins, NYSERDA
(518) 862-1090, ext. 3250.

Albany, NY – Six Capital Region companies recently received funding from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) totaling nearly $405,000 for a variety of energy efficiency and research projects that will save energy, develop new energy products, promote job growth and economic development opportunities, and preserve the region’s environment. NYSERDA works with companies throughout the State to help them identify, implement, and finance cost-effective energy efficiency strategies that can be incorporated into facilities and manufacturing processes to save money. In addition, NYSERDA helps companies throughout the State develop and commercialize new products that will also lead to energy savings or reduced demand for petroleum-derived energy. The projects recently funded in the Capital Region include:

• An award of about $129,000 to Don J. Geisel & Associates, Inc. of Clifton Park to demonstrate the use of an improved bio-remediation process for chemically contaminated soils. Typically, contaminated soils from industrial sites are excavated and incinerated or landfilled, which are both costly processes that result in secondary pollution. Donald Geisel & Associates has developed an innovative approach to enhance bio-remediation through soil warming without removing the soil from the site. The system uses patented heat exchangers in a closed loop circulation system to add heat and oxygen to the contaminated area. This system accelerates the remediation of the site without volatilizing most of the contaminants to the air. In this project, a control and oxygen monitoring system will be tested to maximize the effectiveness of the system.

• An award of $224,775 to the Institute for Gas Technology and Owens Corning in Delmar to demonstrate a highly efficient oxy-gas burner for Owens Corning’s gas-fired melters and furnaces. This burner can be installed on new furnaces and retrofitted onto existing furnaces to provide significant energy and environmental benefits to industrial furnace operators. The goal for the project is to acquire the operating characteristics of the technology to verify its energy, economic, and environmental benefits. It is expected to increase the amount of heat directed to the products being processed through furnaces, increasing the efficiency at which the furnaces operate. The result should be a 50% decrease in nitrogen oxide emissions, which are closely linked to smog formation, and decreased operating costs due to the more efficient use of fuel.

• An award of more than $4,000 to Powell and Minnock Brick Works, Inc. of Coeymans, the oldest brick manufacturer in New York State, which manufactures formed and extruded bricks used in building construction. Annual energy bills for the facility exceed $1.6 million. NYSERDA’s award helped to fund an efficiency study of the facility that recommended a number of ways the company could lower its energy costs, including lighting upgrades and retrofits, installing more efficient electric motors, and modifying the kilns used to manufacture the bricks, which would allow 63% more bricks to be processed through the kilns each day. These recommendations could save Powell and Minnock about $640,000 per year. The total cost to implement these recommendations will be a little more than $1 million, which will be covered by the energy savings in less than two years.

• An award of more than $14,500 to Blue Circle Cement of Ravena, which employs about 200 people to manufacture portland and masonry cements. The company pays about $13 million annually for electricity, representing about 20% of their production costs. NYSERDA’s funding helped them determine if they could generate their own electricity on-site to save money. The analysis looked at several options, identifying the installation of three gas-powered turbines to generate electricity as the most cost-effective. The cost for doing this would be about $17.5 million, which would be paid for through reduced electricity costs in just under four years.

• An award of nearly $16,000 to the Norton Company in Watervliet that funded a study to examine several energy efficiency measures. The final recommendation of the study included replacing the company’s existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, which would result in about $16,000 in annual energy savings. Another recommendation was made to conduct a complete air leakage audit of its compressed air system, which could eliminate air leaks and save as much as $35,000 in annual energy costs. Other recommended measures would bring the total potential energy savings to more than $60,000 per year.

• An award of nearly $16,000 to CB Richard Ellis Facilities Management, Inc. and Fleet Bank to fund a study that examined several energy efficiency measures. The study recommended several efficiency strategies that include replacing the existing heating and ventilation systems and installing an energy management system in the facility to better control the operation of the heating system. The energy savings resulting from these improvements are estimated at nearly $31,000 per year. The cost of implementing the measures is about $65,115, meaning the resulting energy savings will pay for the cost of implementing the measures in a little more than two years.

NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, supports research to develop technologies that help New York save energy and reduce emissions. NYSERDA also helps New York State businesses develop energy and environmental products, commercializing the type of high-value-added products that give New York State businesses a real chance to compete in the expanding global marketplace.

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110100-20

NYSERDA Cites Eleven Partners for 25 Year “Pioneer Awards;” Projects Enhance Energy Efficiency, Economy and the Environment

For Immediate Statewide Release:

For More Info:
Ray Hull 518-862-1090 x 3356
Recipient Contacts Listed at end

Albany, Oct 4–As part of its 25^th Anniversary celebration, The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority recently honored eleven partners from around the state with their first Pioneer Awards. The Pioneer Award recipients were chosen for their contribution to NYSERDA’s goal of bringing innovative energy and environmental technologies and investment to New York State.

The awards were presented recently at the Authority’s 25^th Anniversary dinner that featured Lt. Governor Mary Donahue as keynote speaker. The awards were presented by Sen. James Wright, Chairman of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee, and Assemblyman Paul Tonko, Chairman of the Assembly Energy Committee.

In announcing the awards, NYSERDA President F. William Valentino noted that “though NYSERDA has won more than 200 national and international awards of its own, we really could not have done so without the contributions of these outstanding, innovative partners.”

The ten awards were presented to representatives of each organization:

Energy Resources: SunWize Technologies, a Kingston (Ulster County) photovoltaic (solar) power manufacture moved to New York 8 years ago and now employs 55 people building a variety of PV products. “Their leadership has helped stimulate other companies to become involved in and support solar-related technologies,” President Valentino noted. David Kulik, President, accepted the award.

Industry: Goulds Pumps/ ITT Industries, with 1000 employees in Seneca Falls, (Seneca County) improved their efficiency and helped the environment by switching to a water-based paint for their products, reducing by half the volatile coatings used. “In 1998 they received the Governor’s Award for Pollution Prevention and are saving nearly a half million dollars per year with these NYSERDA-suggested changes,” President Valentino said. Accepting for ITT Industries/ Goulds Pumps was Patrick T. Murphy, Director of IPG Engineered Service.

Government/Institutional: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Lighting Research Institute, at Troy, (Rensselaer County) is an organization NYSERDA helped found 12 years ago to further research and development of quality, efficient lighting. “Lighting represents about a quarter of our residential and commercial electric load and is crucial for living and productivity, thus the LRC’s role has made a great contribution to this important field,” said President Valentino. Accepting the award was Mark Rea, one of the five original founders.

Buildings: Steven Winter Associates, buildings system consultants, has provided more than 40 highly- efficient designs for NYSERDA, including the award-winning 4 Times Square, Battery Park City, and Riverside South, all in Manhattan (New York County) and the new DEC building in Albany (Albany County). “Through their designs, they have helped New York be at the forefront of the Green Buildings movement, including adoption of the State’s Green Buildings Tax Credit,” according to President Valentino. President Steven Winter accepted the award.

Transportation: A shared award was given to Lockheed Martin, Johnson City, (Broome County) the developer of a hybrid-electric bus drive train that dramatically cuts the pollution from traditional diesel power and the New York City Metropolitan Transportation Authority for their bold decision to purchase 135 buses using Governor Pataki’s Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act funds. “This demonstration will provide critical feedback and proof that this technology can save operating costs, while improving our environment,” President Valentino said. Accepting for Lockheed Martin was Steve Cortese, and for NYC-MTA, Mark Shaw, their Executive Director.

Environmental: Rupprecht & Patashnick, Co., Inc, began in a garage and now employs 130 in Albany (Albany County). They sought NYSERDA’s help in developing highly accurate equipment to measure air pollution, and now, “their products are among the standards of the scientific community, measuring particulate matter down to 2.5 microns in diameter,” President Valentino noted. Accepting the award was President Harvey Patashnick.

Building Research: ECR International, Utica, (Oneida County) and its three units, Dunkirk Boiler, Dunkirk (Chautaugua County), Utica Boilers, Utica and EnviroMaster International, Rome (Oneida County) have each worked with NYSERDA over the years to develop and market some of the most efficient heating and cooling systems available for residential and small commercial buildings. “These companies, now united under ECR International, have developed models that are the efficiency and pollution reduction standards for the industry, and we’re pleased to have been part of that development” President Valentino noted. Earle Reed, Vice Chairman of ECR International accepted.

Residential: Energy Investment Systems, New York City (New York County) has demonstrated over 15 years that it can succeed in saving residential energy costs in multi-family buildings, and do so in spite of a labyrinth of institutional and technical barriers associated with government, private and cooperative housing. “EIS has provided a template for low-income, multi-family electric submetering conversions, provided an apartment meter display system showing consumption and is helping establish aggregated energy buying groups to save by buying in bulk,” President Valentino said. Lewis Kwit, President of EIS accepted the award.

Government/Institution: The New York State Office of Mental Health operates 28 psychiatric centers with 1,187 buildings all across the State and is exceeding its 10 year Energy Efficiency Target, by reducing energy consumption by a staggering 57%. “Though some of these savings have been realized by building closures, when the savings are normalized over an operating square foot basis, New York is avoiding spending $120 million in energy costs through cooperation with NYSERDA,” President Valentino said. Accepting for the Office was Skip Hummel, Director of Administration .

Buildings and Transportation : The Shenendehowa Central School District, in Clifton Park, (Saratoga County) operates a massive suburban campus and a big fleet to serve its sprawling area’s needs. Early on, The District began purchasing compressed natural gas school buses, and now, there are 28 in their fleet of 173 and is the largest program of its kind in the State. “The district is not only saving taxpayers’ money through the use of energy performance contracting for its buildings, but became an advocate for the State Energy Law that affords districts this option,” President Valentino said. Joseph Nicolella, the Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources accepted for the District.

President Valentino noted that NYSERDA has won more competitive U.S. Department of Energy grants than any other state and has been cited by DOE as one of the ten best R&D organizations (along with NASA, DARPA and the Research Institute of Canada), and best in its class.

NYSERDA, a public-benefit corporation, was created 25 years ago by legislation to improve energy efficiency, benefit the State’s environment and encourage economic growth. During that time, it has awarded thousands of contracts across the state in the categories cited above. Most recently, NYSERDA has been named the administrator of the New York Energy $mart Program^SM, designed to ensure continued consumer benefits during the transition to a deregulated energy utility environment. NYSERDA’s funding comes from the State’s investor-owned utilities, a voluntary contribution from the New York Power Authority, Long Island Power Authority and limited NYSERDA funds.

Recipient Media Contacts:

• SunWize Technologies: Laurie DuBois (854) 336-0146
• Gould Pumps/ITT Technologies: John Beca (315) 568-7122
• Lighting Research Center, RPI: Robert Woolsey (518) 687-7100
• Steven Winter Associates: Adrian Tuluca (203) 857-0200
• NYC-MTA: Tom Kelly (212) 878-7440 / Lockeed Martin: Larry Stone (607)-770-3944
• Rupprecht & Patashnick Co., Inc. Harvey Patashnick (518) 452-0065
• ECR International, Inc. Edith Buffalohead (315)731-4169
• Energy Investment Systems: Dick Lamb (212) 995-0254
• NYS Office of Mental Health: Roger Klingman (518) 474-6540
• Shenendehowa Central School District: Kelly DeSeciani (518)877-6251 x 2011

100400-18

Saratoga Race Course Harnessing the Earth’s Energy

RELEASE: IMMEDIATE, August 31, 2000
CONTACT: Tom Collins, NYSERDA
(518) 862-1090, ext. 3250

Saratoga – With technical and financial support from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the New York Racing Association (NYRA) recently installed a geothermal heat pump system at the Saratoga Race Course that will save the facility an estimated $7,800 in annual energy costs. The new geothermal heat pump system provides heat and air-conditioning to the recently renovated Administration building and newly- built Jockey House, located in the center of the paddock area.

Heat pumps use a refrigerant cycle to take low-quality heat, concentrate it, and to move the heat to another location. Geothermal heat pumps use heat from the earth to heat and cool, using the relatively constant temperature underground. While outdoor temperatures vary with the seasons, the ground temperature below 15 feet is relatively constant and varies from 45 to 65 degrees. For the Saratoga installation, 19 wells over 400 feet deep each were drilled in the spring and a network of piping was placed below ground in the area in front of the Jockey House.

The geothermal system was selected at Saratoga as it provided a solution to aesthetic concerns over the addition of new equipment, pipes and flues to the historic structures at the track. Compared to conventional boiler systems and electric cooling systems, the geothermal heat pump is quiet, requires less floor space and has no unsightly chimneys, exhaust pipes or flues associated with it. A series of pumps moves the refrigerant to various heating and cooling units located within the ceiling areas. As a result, patrons at the track hardly notice the renovations and addition to the Jockey House.

“Energy efficiency is the one tool we can all use to combat rising energy prices, whether you’re a business, homeowner, or in this case, the Saratoga Race Course,” said NYSERDA President F. William Valentino. “We’re pleased to be able to help the Saratoga Race Course identify an energy-efficient solution that satisfies their need to maintain the historic integrity of the facility, while lowering operating costs.”

Producing significantly less pollution and operating more efficiently than conventional boiler systems, the geothermal heat pump is not only beneficial to the environment, but will also save NYRA thousands of dollars annually in energy costs. NYSERDA’s findings concluded that a ground-source heat pump would save an estimated $7,867 per year in energy costs over a more conventional system. Without the need to maintain a boiler system, NYRA also expects to accrue additional operational savings over the next twenty years.

“While saving money is always important, I was more interested in the aesthetic advantages due to the historic nature of the Saratoga Race Course and the fact that the structures involved are so highly visible to our patrons,” said Facility Manager George Hathaway.

As an incentive to encourage NYRA to install the $202,513 system, NYSERDA provided $57,203 to offset the incremental cost of installing the geothermal piping network as opposed to a more conventional system. The funding comes from the New York Energy $mart^SM New Construction Program.

NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, supports projects in New York State to develop and promote technologies that save energy and reduce emissions. Funding for NYSERDA’s New York Energy $mart^SM program comes from a System Benefits Charge established by the New York State Public Service Commission on five of the State’s investor-owned utilities to ensure that important R&D and energy efficiency programs continue during the utilities’ transition to competition.

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083000-17

Local Energy Expert Wins International Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Colleen Quinn
(518) 862-1090 ext. 3359.

Project Manager, Don LaVada, of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) was recently awarded by the Association of Energy Engineers, the Energy Service Professional of the Year Award `2000. This award goes to individuals and companies that have achieved national and international recognition in promoting the practices and principles of energy engineering and energy management.

Mr. LaVada’s responsibilities as Project Manager in Energy Efficiency Services include energy performance contracting (EPC), K-12 public school projects, and municipal/local government projects. The goal of NYSERDA’s federally funded Energy Efficiency Services Program is to ensure increased energy efficiency and lower operating and maintenance costs for individual, commercial, and institutional customers. Energy Efficiency Services programs for the industrial sector also provide guidance on improving economic competitiveness and productivity, and reducing pollution.

Mr. LaVada is an expert in energy performance contracting and the financing of energy efficiency projects. He is the manager of NYSERDA’s very successful New York Energy $mart^SM Schools, currently working with more than 40 districts pursuing EPC projects. These projects will result in more than $200 million in energy efficiency improvements, saving more than $12 million in annual costs. Mr. LaVada has extensively developed working relationships and partnerships with trade associations such as the Association of School Business Officials, the Council of School Superintendents, the Association of School Board Officials, and the Superintendents of Buildings and Grounds Associations.

This achievement is just one of many that NYSERDA can be proud of. NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, strives to develop innovative solutions to the State’s energy and environmental problems through research and development projects. They are succeeding their efforts to make New York State more energy-efficient, economically secure, and environmentally sound.

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81400-15

State Offers New Energy Loans Through
Banks at 4.5% Discount

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Tom Collins
(518) 862-1090 ext. 3250.

Albany, NY – Nine New York State lenders are leading the pack in offering a new State-sponsored loan product which provides interest rate reductions of 4.5% for cost-saving energy-efficiency measures and renewable technologies projects. The program also helps banks to build loan portfolios and creatively serve customers. Additional participating banks are sought.

The New York Energy $mart^SM Loan Fund, offered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) through banks doing business in the State, is intended to finance modification to existing facilities. Eligible borrowers represent all categories of banking customers: commercial/industrial, retail, agricultural, not-for-profit and residential. Loans up to $500,000 may receive interest reductions for a maximum of five years. The program was developed to provide a stand-alone loan and only funds energy-related improvements. However, creative financing packages involving multiple loan sources are permitted since there is no limit on the total cost of the project nor the accompanying improvements that are not energy related.

To seize proven consumer interest in incentives that save money and are environmentally beneficial, a consumer marketing program, with individualized support for participating banks, is underway . NYSERDA charges no fees to the lender or the borrower. The credit decision and the credit risks are the responsibility of the lender. NYSERDA purchases certificates of deposit (CDs) from the lender and foregoes its share of the interest sufficient to buy down the loan rate. In this respect, the Loan Fund operates similarly to the Empire State Development Linked Deposit Program. For loans of $50,000 or less, banks may also choose a lump-sum payment instead.

One or a combination of the following projects automatically qualify for New York Energy $mart^SM interest reductions, including loans to: purchase EnergyStar® windows and appliances; install insulation, duct sealing and weather stripping; purchase efficient residential furnaces and water heaters; upgrade or install nine categories of high-efficiency lighting; upgrade or install 12 categories of heating, hot water and air-conditioning equipment including heat pumps; install efficient motors; and install occupancy controls and Energy Management Systems. Seven categories of renewable technologies also qualify including solar hot water and heating, photovoltaics (solar cells), and wind generators. Other, custom projects may also qualify but need to be evaluated and approved by NYSERDA first.

Borrowers must be an electric distribution customer of one of five utilities: Central Hudson Gas and Electric, Consolidated Edison, New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG), Niagara Mohawk Power, or Orange and Rockland Utilities. These companies serve most of the state except for Long Island and the Rochester area.

Nine banks with a total of about 70 branches are already participating lenders: Ballston Spa National Bank, the Bank of Castile in Perry, City National Bank and Trust Company in Gloversville, Community Capital Bank in Brooklyn, Evans National Bank in Angola, Hudson River Bank & Trust in Hudson, National Union Bank of Kinderhook, NBT Bank in Norwich, and Wyoming County Bank in Warsaw.

NYSERDA is a public-benefit corporation established by the State Legislature to address the State's energy and environmental challenges. NYSERDA's New York Energy $mart^SM Loan Fund is financed by a System Benefits Charge established by the New York State Public Service Commission on five of the State's investor-owned utilities to ensure that important R&D and energy efficiency deployment efforts continue during the utilities' transition to competition.

For information on the program contact Rachel Winters at (518) 862-1090 ext 3315.

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NYSERDA Launches TP-1 Transformer Project Program to Increase Sales of Energy Star® Transformers

RELEASE: IMMEDIATE, June 5, 2000
CONTACT: Tom Collins, NYSERDA, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3250
or Ted Jones, CEE (617) 589-3949, ext. 230

Albany, NY — Beginning this summer, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), in conjunction with the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE), will launch a two-year effort to promote energy-efficient commercial and industrial transformers through its New York Energy $mart^SM program. These transformers meet Energy Star® efficiency levels and comply with TP-1 standards set by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). Transformers, while not readily seen in buildings, perform a vital function by reducing the higher voltages from utility lines to voltages that can safely be used by electrical equipment in the building.

Transformers typically operate at 92-98 percent efficiency. The remaining 2-8 percent of electricity is lost as heat, which translates into increased operating costs and pollution. Since transformers are energized 24 hours a day, seven days a week, even small improvements in efficiency can have dramatic energy and cost savings.

“It’s estimated that upgrading all of New York State to TP-1/Energy Star® transformers would save New Yorkers approximately $1.4 million annually,” said Bryan Henderson, Program Director for NYSERDA. “In addition, saving this amount of energy will decrease the amount of power-plant emissions that lead to air pollution and acid rain. The widespread adoption of TP-1/Energy Star® transformers will save commercial customers money while helping to protect New York's natural resources.”

After researching market conditions, NYSERDA’s partners in the program – the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), the Cadmus Group and ICF Consulting – will develop and distribute technical tools, such as model specifications and life-cycle cost calculators, to help consulting engineers, electrical contractors, and building operators evaluate their transformer purchases. Financial incentives will be offered to customers purchasing TP-1 transformers to stimulate the market and encourage manufacturers to increase equipment availability. These efforts will be supplemented by educational outreach and coordinated promotional activities.

NYSERDA administers the New York Energy $mart^SM program, which is designed to support certain public benefit programs during the transition to a more competitive electricity market. Funded by a charge on the electricity transmitted and distributed by most of the State’s investor-owned utilities, the New York Energy $mart^SM program includes energy-efficiency services, including those directed at the low-income sector, research and development, and environmental protection activities.

For additional information about NYSERDA's TP-1 transformer project, contact Matt Brown of NYSERDA at (518) 862-1090 ext. 3336.

For more information about CEE’s High-Efficiency C&I Transformer Initiative, contact Ted Jones at (617) 589-3949, ext. 230, or tjones@ceeformt.org.

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060500-12

NYSERDA Contract to Automate Fresnel Optics, Inc. Operations; $528,000 Cuts Production Costs, Supports NY Solar Energy Industry

For Immediate Release

For More Info:
Ray Hull, NYSERDA, 518-862-1090, ext. 3356
Donna Demarais, Fresnel Optics, Inc.
716-647-1140

Albany, May 24–Fresnel Optics, Inc., a Rochester solar lens manufacturer, will automate their large format and solar lens manufacturing process, in cooperation with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. The $528,000 contract aims to automate production and reduce large format lens costs by as much as 50%, in order to maintain the New York manufacturer’s dominant global market position.

Fresnel solar concentrators focus the sun’s rays onto the photovoltaic (PV) cells which convert light to electric energy. Similar to the effect of a magnifying glass, the sun’s focused rays reduce the amount of expensive solar cells needed to produce a given amount of electricity. This project will integrate a new control system and automated materials handling system for molding large lenses used in large PV arrays

“This is a great example of how NYSERDA helps develop energy resources, not only used in New York, but made right here in New York. Our contribution of $264,000 to the overall project will help Fresnel Optics develop the tools needed to stay competitive in a growing, large solar concentrator lens market,” said NYSERDA President, F. William Valentino. “We need this kind of high tech industry to keep our economy growing, and the end product, clean renewable energy, benefits our environment, as well,” he said.

Fresnel Optics, Inc. General Manager, Bryan K. Parks said : “The employee owners of Fresnel Optics are excited to receive this contract.” He added that it will help the company update its large (30" to 40" diameter) lens production to match the efficiency gains already realized in their smaller (2" to 20" diameter) lens process. “Production of large lenses on our presses will become much more efficient, allowing us to remain globally competitive,” he said.. “The major technical risk associated with the project is developing a cost-effective process for producing a Fresnel lens array having a steep facet geometry that is required for this application,” Parks noted.

Fresnel Optics expects to maintain its current work force and projects growth of solar cell lens sales by a factor of 10 over the next five years. With this projected growth, five additional jobs are likely to be added over the period.

Fresnel Optics, with more than 35 years of technical experience, is a subsidiary of Reflexite Corporation, an employee-owned ESOP Company. Using precision tooling and microreplication technology, Fresnel Optics produces microstructured plastic optics for a variety of applications, including Solar Energy, Display Systems, Lighting Applications and other imaging and non-imaging applications. For more information, visit www.fresneloptics.com

This is just one of dozens of projects funded by NYSERDA to improve energy efficiency, benefit the State’s environment and encourage economic growth. NYSERDA, a public-benefit corporation, helps develop new energy and environmental programs and products, including the New York Energy $mart^SM program. NYSERDA’s funding comes from the State’s investor-owned utilities, a voluntary contribution from the New York Power Authority and limited NYSERDA funds.

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052400-11

NYSERDA Project Seeks to Aggregate Backup Generators

RELEASE: IMMEDIATE, May 1, 2000
CONTACT: Tom Collins, NYSERDA
(518) 862-1090, ext. 3250.

Albany, NY – Many commercial and industrial facilities maintain backup generators to provide power during system emergencies that prevent the utility from delivering electricity as it normally does. In New York State, it is estimated that these backup generators have a total capacity of between 6 to 10 percent of the annual peak demand. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) recently initiated a project with Electrotek Concepts of Manlius (Onondaga County) to demonstrate the feasibility of aggregating these backup generators to provide peaking energy and spinning reserve capacity

Spinning reserve capacity is traditionally provided by operating large, central-station generators below rated capacity. These generators can be ramped up to full capacity within ten minutes to meet increasing demand for electricity as needed. Utilities are required to maintain a minimum spinning reserve capacity to prevent disruptions that can de-stabilize the system when a large generator fails.

However, because the utility turbines providing spinning reserve capacity operate at less than full capacity, they are not operating at the point for maximum energy efficiency. Therefore, while these spinning reserve capacity turbines are not contributing much electricity to the utility grid, they are generating emissions. Using backup generators to provide spinning reserve capacity would avoid these emissions because the backup generators could remain idle until needed.

Since these backup generators are distributed at numerous locations within the load area, they also serve to reduce the burden on the installed transmission and distribution system. This is particularly beneficial in congested urban areas.

“The changing face of the electric industry is opening new opportunities to reduce pollution and improve energy efficiency,” said NYSERDA President F. William Valentino. “There is a great resource of backup generators around the State that can be tapped into on a moment’s notice to meet spikes in electricity demand. The trick is to aggregate these generators and coordinate their operation to ensure that public health and safety are not placed at risk by disruptions that affect vital systems and equipment.”

As competition in the electric industry unfolds in New York State, it is changing the face of electricity generation. Utilities are primarily focused on transmission and distribution of electricity to customers while energy service companies begin to assume the role of generating electricity. Under these conditions, large generating plants are giving way to smaller, dispersed sources of electricity generation. Soon, even homeowners will have the option of installing equipment such as fuel cells or microturbines to generate their own electricity.

NYSERDA’s project with Electrotek is another example of how the industry is changing. Operating large turbines at less than full capacity so that they are ready to meet an increase in demand is inefficient and causes unnecessary pollution as well as wear on the turbines. By aggregating backup generators and controlling them from a central point, these generators can sit idle until demand for electricity begins to increase. Within ten minutes the aggregated generators can be activated to supply additional electricity to the grid to prevent service disruptions.

According to J.C. Smith, President of Electrotek, “Backup generators represent an underutilized resource that can improve the reliability of the New York power supply and simultaneously lower costs. Aggregating these available distributed generation resources can be readily implemented using the Signature System, a web-based control and management system that serves as a router for these resources – seamlessly delivering safe, reliable power without the need for additional generating capacity. Electrotek and its parent company, WTP, developed Signature Systems and are pleased to work alongside NYSERDA in evaluating and implementing this win-win solution for the people of New York State.”

Electrotek, a subsidiary of WTP, Inc., is a recognized innovator and developer of state-of-the-art tools for power system analysis, modeling and monitoring. The company specializes in utility and industrial power systems engineering, energy efficiency and management programs, distributed systems analyses, and distributed generation applications.

NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, supports research to develop technologies that help New York save energy and reduce emissions. NYSERDA also helps New York State businesses develop energy and environmental products, commercializing the type of high-value-added products that give New York State businesses a real chance to compete in the expanding global marketplace.

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050100-10

Buffalo and Erie County Cited for Rebuild Niagara Frontier Partnership; NYSERDA Praises Government, Business, Environmental Partnership

HOLD For Release:
Noon, Saturday Apr. 22
For More Info: Ray Hull
518-862-1091

Buffalo Apr 22–The City of Buffalo and Erie County were cited today for their community cooperation and leadership in establishing the Rebuild Niagara Frontier Partnership, a local effort in the US Department of Energy “Rebuild America” Program. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority administers the US DOE program and praised Rebuild Niagara Frontier as the first regional partnership in the State.

William M. Flynn, Vice President and Treasurer of NYSERDA presented certificates at Earth Day 2000 ceremonies at Buffalo State College. Erie County Executive Joel A. Giambra accepted the County award, and Deputy Commissioner of Community Development David Pawlik represented Mayor Anthony M. Masiello.

“The Niagara Frontier was a great starting point for New York’s Rebuild America effort because of the strong support and unity of city and county leadership. This cooperation has attracted business, environmental and community leaders to form our first regional Partnership,” Flynn said. “This program will bring together community, state, and federal resources to save energy, promote renewable energy sources, prevent pollution, spur economic development, enhance industrial competitiveness and improve our lives here in Western New York,” Flynn said.

He noted that the Federal program augments the work provided for by Governor Pataki’s 1996 Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act. “NYSERDA helps administer both of these programs and we appreciate the leadership of the City of Buffalo and Erie County in bringing environmental and energy efficiency improvements to Western New York,” Flynn noted.

Accepting the award, County Executive Giambra said: “Energy efficiency has become paramount to Western New Yorkers as fuel prices have again risen. This is an issue that affects homeowners, businesses and industry. Energy efficiency is a major means of reducing our dependence on foreign oil, an developing a competitive local economy.”

Commissioner Pawlik, relayed Mayor Masiello’s thanks: “My administration uses a comprehensive approach to City development, including: selective demolition, rehabilitation of existing structures and new construction. As part of the Rebuild Niagara Frontier Partnership, we can emphasize one of the most important components, energy efficiency, to preserve our natural resources and expand our research of new ways to make development projects more energy efficient.”

The Rebuild America Program fosters community partnerships among local organizations to use energy efficiency as a way to address community issues. The partnership then can access various New York Energy $mart^SM programs administered by NYSERDA. Community organizations with energy related projects are encouraged to become involved with the Rebuild Niagara Frontier partnership.

NYSERDA sponsored an ENERGY STAR® residential appliance exhibit at the Earth Day 2000 event. New York has teamed with the US DOE/US EPA ENERGY STAR® label program to promote certified products in the Empire State. These products include models from virtually every manufacturer of washing machines, dishwashers, furnaces, air conditioners, TVs, VCRs and computers. Buying and using these labeled appliances reduces electric costs, the need for new generation, and the pollution caused by most power plants. The ENERGY STAR® program is sponsoring advertisements, along with dealer incentives to promote consumer knowledge and use of these efficient products.

The Western New York effort is among the hundreds of projects funded by NYSERDA to promote the efficient, economical and environmentally beneficial energy usage in the Empire State. New York Energy $mart^SM programs promote a variety of advanced technologies and marketing strategies designed to lower utility costs across the State.

NYSERDA funding comes from the State’s investor-owned utilities, a voluntary contribution from the New York Power Authority and limited NYSERDA funds.

042200-9

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Liquified Natural Gas Market Potential Explored; Storage, Transport, New Markets Set in NYSERDA Contract

For Immediate Release
For more info: Ray Hull
518-862-1090 x 3356

Albany, Apr 19–Expanding the market potential for liquified natural gas (LNG) is being studied by a team of Vandor + Vandor, and Cyrogenic Equipment & Services of Tarrytown, NY, under the terms of a new contract with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). LNG is made by compressing and cooling natural gas; after that, it may be shipped and stored more efficiently than in a gaseous state.

Demand for natural gas continues to increase dramatically, and significant market sector competition is raised by interruptible gas supply contracts for electricity generation and other large volume customers. These contracts provide gas at a cheaper rate, but in exchange, permit supply curtailment when temperatures plummet and utility contracts for residential natural gas take precedence. Many interruptible facilities now rely on oil as a back-up or substitute fuel, and some believe that this sudden oil demand may have played a role during this past winter’s oil price escalation. The potential for LNG to become a back up fuel and help ease this market disruption, as well as its use in remote locations and other niche markets, is the subject of this study.

“NYSERDA’s role of providing solutions to the State’s energy issues is well demonstrated by this study,” said F. William Valentino, NYSERDA President. “Last year, our research helped upgrade dated regulations on the bulk storage, transport and use of LNG. Now, NYSERDA will reexamine new technologies and a new market potential for this premium fuel,” he said.

David Vandor, President of the American Liquid Natural Gas Association, and lead member of the contract team, noted three prime study considerations: above and below ground storage tanks, in all sizes; small-scale re-liquefiers; and LNG transport vehicles, such as trailers and inter-modal containers designed to suit customer needs. “Developments in these areas will be examined, and then compared to the market and regulatory requirements. When we complete our study, NYSERDA may make further policy recommendations regarding the future use of LNG,” Vandor said.

The year-long, $84,350 study will make recommendations based on existing and potential new markets as well as existing impediments. It is but one of hundreds of projects funded by NYSERDA to promote the efficient, economical and environmentally beneficial energy usage in the Empire State. Under its newest program, New York Energy $mart^SM NYSERDA is promoting a variety of advanced technologies and marketing strategies designed to lower utility costs across the State. The program was devised by the NYS Public Service Commission to ensure that electric customers benefit from the introduction of competition among the State’s major electric utilities.

NYSERDA funding comes from the State’s investor-owned utilities, a voluntary contribution from the New York Power Authority and limited NYSERDA funds.

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041800-7

NYSERDA and Davis Aircraft Products Addressing Hidden Costs of Heating Homes

RELEASE: IMMEDIATE, April 24, 2000
CONTACT: Tom Collins, NYSERDA
(518) 862-1090, ext. 3250.

Albany, NY – Homeowners feeling the sting of higher heating oil prices this winter may be seeking ways to lower their heating costs. While there are a number of ways to accomplish this, from adding insulation to sealing air leaks around doors and windows, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and Davis Aircraft Products Co., Inc. of Bohemia (Suffolk County) recently initiated a project to develop more efficient components for oil-fired burners that reduce the hidden costs of heating homes.

Many homeowners may be surprised to learn that one of the largest electricity consumers in the home is the heating system. Oil- and gas-fired heating equipment relies on electrical pumps and blowers to produce and distribute heated air or water throughout the home. On average, these electrical components account for $125 to $150 of the home’s annual electric bill. If the home has central air conditioning, that cost is much greater. Typically, these components consume more electricity and cost more to operate annually than the average refrigerator.

To help lower this “hidden” cost, NYSERDA provided Davis Aircraft with research funds to develop an electromagnetic fuel pump that could cut electricity consumption for oil burners by as much as 50 percent. In addition, if combined with certain technologies to produce low- or moderate-pressure steam, the electromagnetic fuel pump could help make newer heating systems that generate their own electricity more attractive to homeowners.

“Unless homeowners have electric heat, they probably don’t consider the impact their heating system has on their electric bill,” said NYSERDA President F. William Valentino. “Given the dynamic nature of the heating oil market, which we experienced first-hand in the Northeast this past winter, energy efficiency is the one tool we have that is guaranteed to lower energy use and save money. Our project with Davis Aircraft will improve the overall efficiency of oil-fired heating equipment by greatly reducing the amount of electricity needed to power it – which means financial savings to the homeowner.”

Conventional oil burners rely on large motors and gear-type pumps to pump fuel to the burner nozzle. An electromagnetic fuel pump would incorporate an oscillating piston that is driven by an electromagnetic coil surrounding it, representing a more efficient use of electricity than conventional fuel pumps. The average household in New York State could save as much as $50 to $75 per year with the adoption of the new technology.

For the project, Davis Aircraft will develop prototypes for comprehensive lab testing to determine the viability of such a system. Success of the technology depends greatly on the expected return on investment for incorporating the electromagnetic fuel pump. The added cost of such a system must be recovered by the electrical savings within a few years in order for it to succeed in the marketplace.

To make the electromagnetic fuel pump more attractive, it could be incorporated into the next generation of “self-powered” heating systems that produce low- to moderate-pressure steam to generate their own electricity. Several variations of these self-powered heating systems are under development. In some cases they would generate enough electricity to power the electrical components of the heating system while in other cases they may generate enough electricity to power other systems in the home. In either case, incorporating an electromagnetic fuel pump would reduce the electrical demand of the heating system components to make self-powered heating systems more practical and economical. The benefits of self-powered heating systems include year-round electricity savings and the ability to heat the home during power outages.

“This project represents an integral step in development of a self-powered burner,” said Davis Aircraft President Douglas Davis. “With such a system, electrical outages would not have to mean 'heat outages' and an added benefit would be lower electric bills throughout the year. With NYSERDA’s help we can achieve this goal on an accelerated schedule, thereby giving the people of New York State the benefit of this exciting technology.”

NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, supports research to develop technologies that help New York save energy and reduce emissions. NYSERDA also helps New York State businesses develop energy and environmental products, commercializing the type of high-value-added products that give New York State businesses a real chance to compete in the expanding global marketplace.

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042400-08

THE PROMOTION OF ENERGY-EFFICIENT PRODUCTS ESCALATES WITH THE HELP OF MORE THAN 250 NEW YORK RETAILERS

RELEASE: Immediate, April 14, 2000
CONTACT: Colleen Quinn, NYSERDA
(518) 862-1090 ext. 3359

Albany, NY April 14, 2000. As part of Earth Day 2000 (4/22/00), the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) announced today that its New York State Energy Star® Appliances and Lighting Program has sparked the interest of 253 retail stores throughout New York State. Retailers large and small have signed up to actively market these energy-efficient products. Participating retailers receive a number of benefits for participating in the program and are eligible for co-operative advertising support, sales training, point of purchase materials, and other incentives from a $3 million incentive fund administered by NYSERDA. Retailers will also benefit from an up and coming national Energy Star advertising campaign sponsored by the creators of the Energy Star label, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE).

William R. Howell, NYSERDA’s Chairman, said, “We’re very excited by the strong interest of New York’s retailers in promoting the sale of Energy Star models. Their active support in promoting these models will mean lower energy costs and a healthier environment for New York households, and potentially increased revenues for their stores.”

Most recently, NYSERDA was honored for its efforts by the EPA and DOE as one of the 2000 Energy Star Award winners for “Excellence in Consumer Education.” Besides working with retailers, NYSERDA’s program has also included a media campaign with Gov. George E. Pataki and local market media launches with Lt. Governor Mary O. Donohue.

The Energy Star label, a collaboration between the EPA and DOE, was created to help consumers easily identify energy-efficient products and appliances. Products that bear the Energy Star label such as major appliances, heating and air conditioning, and lighting meet stringent energy use and performance criteria. These criteria let consumers know that they are buying products that provide them with all the bells and whistles of standard-efficiency models, but use less energy and cost less to operate.

Appliance, lighting, and home electronics dealers are invited to join NYSERDA’s program if they are located in the service areas of Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation, Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation, Orange and Rockland Utilities, and the New York State Electric and Gas Corporation. Interested retailers should contact 1-877-NYSTAR1 (1-877-697-8271).

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041400-06

New York State Wins National “Excellence in Consumer Education” Award

RELEASE: Immediate, March 21, 2000
CONTACT: Colleen Quinn, NYSERDA
(518) 862-1090, ext. 3359

Washington, D.C. -- On Tuesday, March 21, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) was named the recipient of one of the 2000 ENERGY STAR® Awards for “Excellence in Consumer Education” given by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at the Omni Shorea Hotel at which Lt. Governor Mary O. Donohue was the keynote speaker.

NYSERDA, with the help of Lt. Governor Donohue, has been making it possible for consumers throughout New York State to easily identify the ENERGY STAR® label and understand the benefits of using ENERGY STAR® products and appliances. Products that bear the ENERGY STAR® use less energy, helping consumers save up to 30% on their energy bill, while protecting the environment. The Lt. Governor, along with other State and local officials, assisted NYSERDA by kicking off a statewide public awareness campaign to educate consumers about ENERGY STAR® in four major markets in New York State, which included Buffalo, Albany, Syracuse, and Binghamton. Currently Lt. Governor Donohue is helping NYSERDA in other areas of the State as well. NYSERDA’s program has also included a media campaign with Governor George E. Pataki.

ENERGY STAR® is a collaborative effort between the DOE, the EPA, manufacturers, and retailers to help consumers choose products that consume less energy and help prevent pollution. These products, household appliances and lighting products, bear the ENERGY STAR® label and must meet stringent efficiency criteria set by the DOE and EPA.ENERGY STAR® Manufacturing partners voluntarily join this effort by agreeing to label products that meet these criteria.

New York is the first state to be involved in this campaign and through this partnership with ENERGY STAR®, is seeking to increase household energy efficiency and promote ENERGY STAR® as a market standard for quality and performance. NYSERDA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the DOE and EPA to cooperatively market the symbol and hopefully develop the program to act as a national model.

The ENERGY STAR® promotion is part of a larger market transformation program that NYSERDA is administering under an agreement with the PSC to ensure public benefit programs continue to benefit New Yorkers. These programs are paid for by a System Benefits Charge on the electricity transmitted and distributed by five of the State’s seven investor owned utilities.

NYSERDA has designated these public benefit programs as New York Energy $mart^SM programs, which ENERGY STAR® falls under. NYSERDA’s partnership with ENERGY STAR® proves how well public benefit charge funding can be used and how it can be a useful model for other states to develop comparably successful programs.

Inefficient appliances can have a costly effect on the environment. Electricity is mostly generated by power plants that burn fossil fuels. Emissions from these plants create air pollution which contributes to acid rain and global warming. The average home creates more air pollution than the average car does. Every time we flip a light switch or do a load of laundry, it’s like turning the key in your car.

NYSERDA is promoting ENERGY STAR® appliances and lighting in cities across the state to help combat air pollution and to save consumers money on their energy bills. According to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, consumers can save up to 30% on their energy bills. ENERGY STAR® products that are available to New York residents include: washing machines, room air conditioners, dishwashers, refrigerators, lighting fixtures, and compact fluorescent light bulbs. A major goal of the campaign is to show consumers that they don’t need to sacrifice features or performance when switching to these energy-efficient appliances.

The following are just a few of the benefits associated with Energy Star products:

• ENERGY STAR® washing machines remove more water and soap residue in the rinse and spin process than standard models, leaving clothes cleaner. They also consume up to 50 percent less energy than some models and also can save up to 400 gallons of water per month.

• ENERGY STAR® lighting products use compact fluorescent bulbs rather than a standard halogen bulb. These bulbs burn much cooler, greatly reducing the fire hazard of conventional halogens.

• ENERGY STAR® refrigerators use 20 percent less energy than standard models. Better insulation means the cooling unit runs less, reducing the amount of heat released into the home.

For more information about the program or to find an ENERGY STAR® retailer in New York State call 1-888-STARYES or visit the website at www.energystar.gov.

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NYSERDA and ECR International’s Dunkirk Division Developing Self-Powered Heating Systems

RELEASE: IMMEDIATE, January 24, 2000
CONTACT: Tom Collins, NYSERDA
(518) 862-1090, ext. 3250.

Albany, NY -- What happens to home owners when the power goes out? In addition to being left in the dark, they’re often also left in the cold. That’s because oil- and gas-fired heating systems rely on electric controls, pumps, and blowers to circulate heated air or water throughout the house. When the power goes out as a result of a storm or other incident, these components cannot be operated.

While normally just a temporary inconvenience, if the power is out for an extended period of time, as was the case in the 1998 ice storm that hit the northeast and left more than 130,000 New Yorkers without power for several weeks in some cases, it often results in damaged pipes and forces owners to abandon their homes for shelters. A new heating technology under development by ECR International -- Dunkirk Division (Chautauqua County) may end these kinds of reliability problems while also saving utility customers money on their electric bills.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) recently signed an agreement with ECR International to develop a self-powered heating system. This system puts a twist on the concept of generating your own electricity that may appeal to residential utility customers concerned with electricity reliability and costs. These self-powered heating systems would use low- or moderate-pressure steam to generate electricity that could operate the heating system’s own electrical components or possibly other household appliances and systems.

“Not only can self-powered heating eliminate the loss of heat during power outages, but it has the potential to reduce customers’ utility bills as well,” said NYSERDA President F. William Valentino. “Annually, up to $200 of the average residential customer’s electric bill can be attributed to the controls, pumps and blowers associated with the heating system. A system that generates its own electricity would eliminate that portion of the bill. There is also potential that the system ECR International ultimately develops could generate enough electricity to power other systems in the home, leading to even greater savings.”

As part of the project with NYSERDA, the Dunkirk Division of ECR International will investigate two methods for designing and building a self-powered heating system, with the expectation of commercializing the more promising approach.

Under the first scenario, the self-powered unit would use low-pressure steam to generate a small amount of electricity -- just enough to power the heating system. Under the second scenario, the self-powered unit would use higher-pressure steam to generate even more electricity so that other systems such as lighting or appliances could be powered with the electricity generated by the heating unit. It is possible that under the second scenario customers could reduce their demand for electricity from the utility by as much as 50 percent.

The limiting factor that will determine which approach ECR pursues will likely be manufacturing cost. In the competitive and mature heating and cooling industry, high-efficiency equipment must provide a fast payback to the customer to succeed in the market. While generating more electricity may have a greater impact on electric bills, there will be an added cost for producing such a system. The energy savings from operating the self-powered system must pay for the added initial expense in a few years to have a chance of succeeding in the market.

“We see this project as making sense on many levels; from economic to energy conservation and ultimately the homeowner’s well being,” said ECR International President Tim Reed. “This device is a natural extension of our existing product line. ECR International is proud to be a partner with NYSERDA on this cutting-edge technology.”

The cost for this project is about $500,000, with NYSERDA providing about $200,000 from its New York Energy $mart^SM program. NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, supports research to develop technologies that help New York save energy and reduce emissions. NYSERDA’s New York Energy $mart^SM program is funded by a System Benefits Charge established by the New York State Public Service Commission on five of the State’s investor- owned utilities to ensure that important R&D and energy efficiency deployment efforts continue during the utilities’ transition to competition.

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011400-02