NYU Langone Health and Summit Ridge Energy have teamed up to take a big step towards making New York greener and more resilient. The partnership involves the installation of four energy storage systems (ESS) across Brooklyn and Staten Island, which will collectively provide 58 megawatt hours (MWh) of energy storage capacity to New York’s electric grid.
The first two energy storage systems, known as the Arlington ESS and Littlefield ESS, have already been commissioned and are ready to make a positive impact on the state’s power mix. The projects, which feature energy storage hardware and software from Qcells, a leading provider of energy solutions, will help stabilize the grid and improve resiliency as more renewable energy sources, including offshore wind, are integrated.
The goal of these energy storage systems is twofold. Firstly, they will reduce the need for diesel-powered peaker plants by providing energy storage capacity to the grid. This will help transition New York towards cleaner energy sources and minimize carbon emissions. Secondly, the projects will deliver power to the grid during periods of peak demand. Currently, during these times, diesel-powered generators are relied upon as a temporary solution. However, the ESS provided by Summit Ridge Energy are not only cleaner but also better suited for dispatching energy to the grid at short notice.
These projects have been made possible through the New York State Public Service Commission’s (PSC) Value Stack (VDER) program, which recognizes the many benefits that energy projects, like energy storage systems, offer to the grid and society as a whole. This includes reducing carbon emissions and providing cost savings to customers and utilities.
An interesting aspect of this partnership is that NYU Langone Health has agreed to purchase all of the bill credits from the first two energy storage projects. This innovative strategy not only supports New York’s grid resiliency efforts but also aligns with NYU Langone Health’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. By purchasing the bill credits, the health system plays an important role in supporting the transition to cleaner energy for all New Yorkers.
Commenting on the project, Brian Dunn, Chief Operating Officer at Summit Ridge Energy, highlighted the critical grid resilience these energy storage projects bring to New York City. He also emphasized the company’s pride in leading the expansion of energy storage in the state.
Paul Schwabacher, Senior Vice President of Facilities Operations at NYU Langone Health, recognized the importance of both reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting efforts to harden and decarbonize New York City’s energy grid. NYU Langone Health’s involvement in the project demonstrates how large end users, such as hospitals, can actively contribute to a low-carbon future.
With more energy storage projects slated to be completed in the coming months, New York is on track to meet its clean power targets and enhance grid resiliency. The collaboration between NYU Langone Health and Summit Ridge Energy sets an example for other institutions and organizations to take an active role in accelerating the transition to renewable energy and building a sustainable future.
