Albany – Assembly Energy Committee Chair Kevin Cahill (D-Ulster, Dutchess) touted recent changes in New York’s energy landscape as important job creation opportunities for Hudson Valley employers. The New York Power Authority’s low cost power program, Recharge New York, created through legislation developed by Assemblymember Cahill, combined with Albany NanoTech $4.4 billion commitment to the region and recently approved energy assistance programs, have the potential to provide a big boost for local businesses and not-for-profits.

“I have been working hard to address the high energy costs that have been holding back job creation in our region and those efforts are starting to pay off in a big way,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “When developing the Recharge NY program, I made sure that businesses in our communities would finally have the opportunity to create new jobs with the help of the state’s low cost power resources. Now is the time to take advantage.”

The New York Power Authority (NYPA) will be accepting Recharge NY applications from Hudson Valley businesses and not-for-profits through November 30th. The new job creation program is a groundbreaking approach designed to help businesses meet their energy needs in the most efficient manner possible. The initiative, brought about by legislation sponsored by Assemblymember Cahill, reforms the antiquated Power For Jobs program which had long been closed to employers in the Mid-Hudson Valley.

“We have made great progress in transforming our region into a center for energy innovation, particularly when it comes to solar power, and the private sector is definitely paying attention,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “The recently announced $4.4 billion partnership with Albany NanoTech is going to open a lot of doors for local job development. Recharge NY and NYSERDA’s new energy assistance programs can help us seize those opportunities.”

Assemblymember Cahill will be hosting a forum on Wednesday, November 9th in Kingston to provide local employers with information on how to take advantage of the programs offered by NYPA and NYSERDA. The event will also include a presentation by representatives from Albany NanoTech highlighting potential partnership opportunities for area businesses.

“It is very important that businesses and not-for-profits have an understanding of the many energy related opportunities available to them,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “This forum will help provide them with the tools and information they need to take full advantage of what the state has to offer.”

For more information about the forum please contact Assemblymember Cahill’s office at 845-338-9610. Details about the Recharge NY program can be found at the following website: http://www.nypa.gov/RechargeNY/default.htm.