New York is allocating millions in funding to bolster the clean energy workforce in the state. Clean energy career development programs are receiving an additional $50 million, bringing the initiative’s total funding to $320 million.
“Washington Republicans’ assault on renewables won’t stop New York from continuing our nation-leading clean energy progress,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul. “These investments underscore our commitment to preparing New Yorkers for the good-paying jobs of tomorrow – all while driving down energy costs for families statewide.”
This funding is supporting New York’s Clean Energy Career Pathways Training and Technical Skills Training and Upskilling programs. Clean Energy Career Pathways uses clean energy projects, like solar PV, to train a new workforce in renewables construction and place them in careers. Technical Skills Training and Upskilling will provide funding to projects to engage technical training organizations to teach existing and new workers the latest in clean energy construction
New York currently hosts more than 6 GW of solar power and the nation’s first large offshore wind farm, South Fork Wind. Two other in-progress offshore wind projects will provide 10% of the New York City and Long Island’s electric load once completed. In total, New York 184,000 New Yorkers are employed in clean energy, according to the 2025 New York Clean Energy Industry report.
“NYSERDA is helping prepare New Yorkers to fill high-demand careers that are essential to meet the needs of today’s clean energy economy,” said Doreen M. Harris, NYSERDA President and CEO. “These programs provide hands-on training that will help build an in-state workforce to strengthen our energy independence, and contribute to a more reliable, affordable energy system.”
The Clean Energy Career Pathways Training and the Technical Skills Training and Upskilling programs are competitive solicitations, administered by NYSERDA. These programs provide funding to eligible entities for curriculum development, training equipment purchases, and technical training delivery in the areas of energy efficiency, building electrification, renewable energy, energy storage, smart grid, electric distribution and transmission and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. NYSERDA’s Workforce Development Program has trained more than 40,000 New Yorkers between 2018 and 2025.
Through this program, NYSERDA has made $30 million available for initiatives that provide clean energy technical training, career preparation, wraparound services and job placement to prepare individuals for entry-level clean energy careers. Applicants are encouraged to partner with other entities for comprehensive proposals.
Applications for the Clean Energy Career Pathways Training are accepted until November 23, 2027. Applications under the first funding round are accepted until May 20.
Additionally, $20 million is available for training initiatives to develop and improve the technical skills and knowledge of existing clean energy workers as well as students. Eligible applicants include technical training organizations, professional associations and other entities with experience in clean energy technical training.
Applications for the Technical Skills Training and Upskilling Program are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis dependent on funding availability until September 30, 2030.
News item from NYSERDA
