Since Malcarne Contracting’s inception in 1996, we’ve advocated energy-efficient approaches for home construction, offering heat pumps, solar panels and more to those we serve. Recent trends, including high inflation and environmental changes, mean it’s even more important for us to provide HVAC solutions that help our clients stay comfortable year round while they save money. Developments in New York State, however, mean that such energy-efficient offerings may become much more prevalent as the State seeks to encourage more homeowners to get off fossil fuels.
What is the NYS Climate Action Council’s Scoping Plan?
In December 2022, the New York State Climate Action Council voted on their Scoping Plan, a blueprint to help transform the State’s energy landscape. The Council, which held its first meeting in March 2020, set out ambitious goals but what exactly are these goals and how will these goals affect you?
The Scoping Plan sets out three main goals, which are as follows:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Increase clean energy generation
- Create jobs in the clean energy sector
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction
The Climate Action Council’s goal is for New York State to be carbon-neutral by 2050. This can be achieved when we bring emissions down to zero and achieve a balance between the carbon dioxide that is emitted and the carbon dioxide that is naturally absorbed by forests and oceans. The Council documented in its plan a series of measures that could cut the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) that power plants and other sources release into the atmosphere.
How could the Council’s goal to reduce carbon emissions affect New Yorkers, including homeowners?
Measures such as increased efficiency standards for buildings and vehicles, improved appliance standards, and increased use of renewable energy sources mean that, if mandated, home owners will need to rely more on energy-efficient solutions. Such solutions available through Malcarne HVAC — solutions like heat pumps, for instance — mean that homeowners can prepare for possible changes in policies. In essence, you can future-proof your home while ensuring that you begin to embrace the cost-saving advantages of high efficiency heat pumps and other Malcarne HVAC solutions.
Clean Energy Generation
Another important goal in the Scoping Plan relates to a need to increase clean energy generation in New York State. To do this, the Council has proposed increasing renewable energy targets from 50% by 2030 up to 70% by 2040. It would require an additional 10 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity — the equivalent of ten large nuclear power plants — by 2040. But what does this mean for homeowners? Below are a few considerations:
- More options for clean energy: Increased clean energy generation could mean more opportunities for homeowners to access clean energy solutions at a fair price. More providers means more competition which could also result in improved offerings.
- Incentives for solar: The Council plans to set up incentives for homeowners who install solar panels on their homes. Such incentives from the State could make energy-efficient homes more accessible for New Yorkers, particularly those who may otherwise be unable to afford an energy retrofit.
- Incentives for electric vehicles: The plan also recommends incentives for individuals who switch to electric vehicles (EVs).
As you consider how to best prepare for the Scoping Plan’s impact, know that our HVAC experts are available to guide you on the best energy upgrades for you. We can assess your home, recommend efficient air conditioning systems and more, depending on your needs.
New Jobs in Clean Energy Sector
Job creation is another important goal of the New York State Climate Action Council’s Scoping Plan. The creation of new jobs in the clean energy sector would involve expanding job training programs related to green jobs such as wind turbine technicians or electric vehicle mechanics and creating incentives for employers that hire workers with these skills.
What are the implications for homeowners? Investments in the sector in general could bring an ecosystem of top talent. This could mean that companies like ours, and our Malcarne HVAC line of business, in particular, can continue to meet the demand for energy-smart solutions, providing you with the top-notch service and expertise you need now and into the future.
The Climate Action Council’s Scoping Plan is an ambitious blueprint with potentially far-reaching implications for homeowners across New York State. By preparing now and consulting with our team of experts, you can know how best to move forward as you plan your next home improvement project with sustainability and cost savings at the forefront! Learn more by contacting our HVAC team at 845-246-9489.