Albany - Coordinating New York's wide array of programs promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies to better meet the needs of businesses was the topic of discussion between Assembly leaders, state agencies, businesses and utilities. The event, hosted by Assembly Energy Committee Chair Kevin Cahill (D-Ulster, Dutchess) and Economic Development Committee Chair Robin Schimminger, focused on the challenge of developing a new energy economy and creating a streamlined process for businesses to access programs that lower costs, increase productivity and promote job creation and retention.

"New York has many initiatives administered by multiple agencies designed to help increase competitiveness through conservation and innovation. However, some businesses have difficulty navigating the process to maximize benefits." said Assemblymember Cahill. "Improving coordination between agencies and industries, combined with increasing awareness and access, will help New York's businesses gain a competitive advantage."

Specifically, issues addressed included: creation of a one stop point of entry for businesses seeking access to State energy-related assistance; a streamlined permitting process for power plant siting; enhanced application assistance for small businesses and large companies seeking to access energy efficiency/renewable energy incentives; and, a greater focus on state energy and business assistance programs to spur the development of a clean energy technology industry.

One idea that was well received was the creation of a single point of access for new and existing businesses that provides information and assistance with licensing, permitting and coordination of incentives. The no wrong door approach would make the process of participating in the many state energy programs easier and more attractive to businesses. Additionally, participants emphasized the need for a more proactive promotion of available programs.

"In order to be a leader in the new 21st Century energy economy, we must seize the many advantages New York has in natural resources, university research and development centers, investment capitol and people," said Assemblymember Cahill. "It was extremely instructive to hear from business and economic development leaders on how to better coordinate our efforts to make New York's economy greener and more vibrant."

"The purpose of today's discussion was to bring ideas to the table for how New York's economic development programs and policies can more effectively and proficiently utilize and foster energy efficiency and renewable technologies at commercial entities from Buffalo Niagara to Long Island," said Assemblymember Schimminger. "For too long, state agencies have not made expanding clean energy technology companies a high-profile mission. Now is the time for New York State to develop a clear, coherent, unified message among all State entities and achieve significant energy cost savings through the use of these technologies."

Kevin Law, President and CEO of the Long Island Power Authority said "I commend Chairman Cahill and Chairman Schimminger for their leadership on developing a clean energy economy and helping our business community prosper. At the Long Island Power Authority, we look forward to working with the New York State Assembly and our commercial customers to help them retain jobs and expand operations through our economic development and efficiency programs."

Randy Wolken, President of the Manufacturers Association (MACNY) said. "On behalf of the MACNY and its membership, I applaud Assemblyman Schimminger and Assemblyman Cahill in their leadership and guidance with today's roundtable, allowing government and business the opportunity to discuss the state's future in both energy efficiency programs and clean tech industries. As our state continues to delve into the future of our state's energy resources and energy-efficiency programs, I look forward to continued open dialogue between government and the state's manufacturers in the creation of both effective and helpful programs in all of these areas."

Carol E. Murphy Executive Director, Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) said "Today's roundtable discussion was a chance for policy makers to hear first-hand from business leaders where the opportunities and challenges lie in growing New York's clean tech industry. ACE NY appreciates the leadership shown by Assemblymen Cahill and Schimminger in their efforts to facilitate a comprehensive approach to addressing business concerns and identifying ways to support and grow the programs that have seen success. Coordination of energy policy and economic development programs among all levels of government is essential if we are to realize the full investment potential of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies."

Edward White, Vice President of Renewable Development for National Grid said "National Grid is committed to helping bring clean and efficient sources of energy to our customers, and to helping those customers make the best possible use of those resources. We want to thank Assemblyman Cahill and Assemblyman Schimminger for their foresight in examining ways to make more efficient use of the many energy efficiency and economic development programs currently available, and to bring new programs to the table."