March 19, 2008—The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) recently unveiled a $6 million clean energy workforce training initiative.
NYSERDA will invest more than $4 million in a range of clean energy sectors including solar photovoltaic systems, small wind turbines, and biogas energy systems. An additional $2 million will help develop the solar workforce through programs at community colleges across New York State.
The intent of the new efforts is to develop a workforce that can design, install, and maintain renewable energy systems to ensure the successful implementation and promotion of renewable energy technologies in New York State. New York has already invested nearly $1 million to develop seven accredited solar training centers and continuing education programs across the state.
The agency is also seeking to establish a Wind Energy Research and Testing Center. The center would catalyze research in such topics as advanced materials, power electronics, turbine design, wind forecasting, and environmental impact assessment. It would also provide resources to test new products while helping to provide a highly skilled workforce to meet the needs of the quickly growing wind power industry.
For more information see NYSERDA’s Power … Naturally Web site.
