(WNY News Now) – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) have extended the public comment period to March 15, 2024, for the draft Disadvantaged Communities Investments and Benefits Reporting Guidance. This guidance outlines how state entities will report compliance with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act’s mandate to allocate 35-40% of clean energy investments to benefit disadvantaged communities.
New York State has taken a significant step toward ensuring equity in its clean energy initiatives with the release of draft guidance by the DEC and NYSERDA. The guidance, developed collaboratively with various state agencies, details how state entities will report on compliance with the Climate Act’s requirement that a minimum of 35%, with a goal of 40%, of clean energy investments directly benefit disadvantaged communities.
The draft guidance serves as a blueprint for reporting energy efficiency and clean energy investments in areas such as housing, workforce development, pollution reduction, low-income energy assistance, renewable energy, transportation, and economic development. The aim is to enhance transparency and consistency in meeting the Climate Act’s equity provisions.
New Yorkers are encouraged to provide feedback on the proposed guidance, as the state seeks to address the interests and priorities of historically marginalized communities. The public comment period, now extended to March 15, 2024, allows stakeholders to contribute to shaping the final guidance. Written comments can be submitted to Alanah Keddell-Tuckey at NYSDEC or via email at justice@dec.ny.gov, with “Draft Disadvantaged Communities Reporting Guidance” in the subject line.
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