Environmental

NYPA 2023 integrated report showcases progress toward priorities, renewables roadmap

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NYPA 2023 integrated report showcases progress toward priorities, renewables roadmap

The New York Power Authority’s (NYPA) second annual integrated report details how it and subsidiary the New York State Canal Corporation are charting a path to a clean energy future. The report brings together sustainability and financial information to provide a comprehensive view of 2023 performance and accomplishments.

NYPA achieved progress on a variety of major initiatives and projects in 2023. The power authority laid the groundwork to accelerate renewables development after “landmark legislation” from Governor Kathy Hochul. NYPA was granted enhanced authority to develop, own and operate renewable energy generation and storage projects to help support the goals of the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, maintain an adequate and reliable supply of electric power and energy, and support the REACH program to enable low- and moderate-income customers to receive bill credits through the production of renewable energy by NYPA.

“The 2023 Integrated Report outlines the critical and innovative work under way at the Power Authority and Canal Corporation that is advancing New York’s nation-leading climate and clean energy goals,” said NYPA Chairman John R. Koelmel. “2023 was a banner year for NYPA, and this report provides an open and robust review of our operations as we strive to develop more clean energy solutions and grow New York’s clean energy infrastructure.”

NYPA completed Central East Energy Connect, a 93-mile-long transmission line in the Mohawk Valley and Capital Region, and Smart Path, which upgraded 78 miles of transmission lines in the North Country. Additionally, the NYPA Board of Trustees authorized the issuance of $751 million in green transmission revenue bonds in 2023, directly supporting the Smart Path Connect project.

The power authority also made significant progress with Next Generation Niagara, a multi-year program to modernize the Niagara Power Project to ensure NYPA continues to deliver clean, low-cost hydropower in Western New York and support economic development. Other accomplishments include decarbonization projects with customers and an electric bus charging infrastructure project with the MTA at New York City depots that will help to reduce emissions.

The integrated report also details important work under way to revitalize the canal system by strengthening infrastructure and improving accessibility and recreational opportunities. Additionally, the report describes a variety of programs that support neighboring communities and local and diverse suppliers.

“Our determination to help decarbonize New York’s energy system is more than a technical endeavor; NYPA is working to ensure that the clean energy transition is just, equitable and inclusive so that all New Yorkers benefit from the environmental and economic advantages of renewable energy,” said NYPA President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll.

The 2023 Integrated Report presents a view of the progress NYPA has made toward achieving the priorities set by VISION2030 and the goals outlined in its 2021–25 Sustainability Plan. Some highlights of NYPA’s impact in 2023 are reflected in the following numbers:

  • 84% of the electricity is generated by hydropower and pumped storage facilities
  • 22.6 million MWh of hydropower generated
  • 20,227 metric tons carbon emissions avoided through 81 customer energy efficiency projects
  • 4 million visitors through the canal system for tourism, recreation and education

The report further expands the scope of greenhouse gas accounting, not only for direct emissions from NYPA assets but also for indirect emissions from its value chain.

NYPA is the largest state public power organization in the U.S., operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80% of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower.