The New York State Department of Public Service (DPS) and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) have unveiled a report titled ‘New York’s 6 GW Energy Storage Roadmap: Policy Options for Continued Growth in Energy Storage.’ Energy storage is expected to play a crucial role by integrating large quantities of variable renewable energy, reducing curtailment and storing renewable generation. This roadmap aims to bolster energy storage capacity in the state, targeting 6 GW by 2030. The strategy outlined in the roadmap emphasises market reforms, innovative procurement mechanisms, and accelerated technology development to meet the expanded storage target.
This initiative reflects the crucial role of energy storage in accommodating the rise of renewable energy generation and supporting the electrification of transportation and buildings. New York has already made significant progress toward its storage goals, with 1,301 MW of storage either awarded or contracted by October 2022, representing about 87 per cent of the 2025 target. However, persistent challenges such as supply chain constraints, escalating material costs, and interconnection issues pose threats to further progress.
To overcome these challenges and reach the 6 GW target, NYSERDA and DPS advocate for tailored procurement programmes. These programmes would include a diverse range of storage projects, such as bulk, retail, and residential installations, to maximize cost-effectiveness and grid benefits. The proposed strategy allocates 3,000 MW for bulk storage projects through an Index Storage Credit mechanism, ensuring long-term viability and ratepayer value. Additionally, exploring the use of energy storage for non-market transmission and distribution services aims to enhance grid resilience and efficiency.
Retail and residential storage initiatives, proven successful, will continue to receive funding, with region-specific blocks to promote equitable access and adoption. These programmes are estimated to cost between USD1.29 billion and USD2.01 billion, with a marginal impact on customer electric bills. Looking ahead, the roadmap prioritises the development of long-duration storage technologies to ensure reliable, zero-carbon supply over extended periods, aligning with New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act’s (CLCPA) targets of transitioning to 70 per cent renewable electricity by 2030 and zero-emissions electricity by 2040.
The full document can be accessed here.
