I was honored to join the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in launching a $27 million program called Renewable Heat NY. The program is investing in companies like Vincent’s Heating and Fuel Services in Herkimer County. The company received funding to help expand […]
I was honored to join the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in launching a $27 million program called Renewable Heat NY. The program is investing in companies like Vincent’s Heating and Fuel Services in Herkimer County. The company received funding to help expand its business with a wood-pellet supply truck to better accommodate the growing consumer and commercial demand for wood-biomass heating. The program will also help families and small-business owners take advantage of high-efficiency, low-emissions, wood-fired heating systems.
This shift to eco-friendly wood-burning systems could be a game changer for our local economy and for families trying to keep heating costs down. The region [I represent], from the Mohawk Valley to the North Country, is home to an important forest products industry. Responsible forestry and harvesting practices are tremendously important for our economy and the environment. Wood harvested from well-managed forests can be turned into heating pellets for high-efficiency wood-boiler systems.
These new wood-burning systems would allow families and business owners to heat homes and facilities at a lower cost than fossil-fuel systems. Considering the winter we had in 2013-14, this is welcome news.
The Renewable Heat NY program has several options to help people make the switch to high-efficiency, low-emission wood-burning systems. Residential incentives include $1,000 to purchase a new wood-pellet stove and $4,000 for advanced cordwood boilers and thermal-storage units. Businesses will benefit too. More information can be found at www.nyserda.ny.gov/renewableheatny.
I am encouraged by this forward-thinking program, which will help our homeowners, economy, and environment. I applaud Laurie Vincent and her company for the work they are doing to bring renewable energy to families and businesses throughout the region. I look forward to New York’s stronghold in the low-emissions heating industry.
Marc W. Butler (R,C,I–Newport) is a New York State Assemblyman for the 118th District, which encompasses parts of Oneida, Herkimer, and St. Lawrence counties, as well as all of Hamilton and Fulton counties. Contact him at butlerm@assembly.state.ny.us
