HURLEY- The Town of Hurley is pleased to highlight its ongoing participation in the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Clean Energy Communities (CEC) Program.
Since February, Climate Smart Hurley has been providing a public education series for Hurley residents to promote clean-energy technologies and help the Town earn up to $20,000 toward municipal clean-energy upgrades through the grant challenge program.
The series so far has included presentations about practical ways to adopt split air/heat pump technologies, and how to sign up for community solar.
The third and final presentation in the series will be given at the May 14 meeting of the Hurley Town Board, starting at 6 p.m. in the West Hurley Firehouse, 24 Wall St., West Hurley. The presentation – by Samrat Pathania, an energy coach, teacher and Co-Chair of the Climate Reality Project’s local chapter – will focus on electric vehicle (EV) ownership. Pathania will speak about emissions savings, safety, range and longevity, and address common questions about EVs. “EVs are one of the most important, yet misunderstood, climate solutions, even among those who understand the problem of climate change,” Pathania said.
Hurley Climate Smart Task Force Coordinator Kristen Schara said, “We are thrilled that NYSERDA instituted this CEC grant challenge to help our local municipalities make the switch to clean energy. We hope we will continue to inspire the community in Hurley to take practical steps where they’re able to help Hurley earn grant money for Town-wide upgrades.”
Hurley Supervisor Mike Boms said, “Taking steps to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels where we can will help the state reach the ambitious goals set out in the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. I fully support educating our residents about the many options and incentives available.”
Clean Energy Coach Tom Konrad said, “Having a plan to shift off fossil fuels is key to saving money while transitioning. Done right and at the right time, heat pumps, electric vehicles and community solar are the most affordable options for most, but people also can make expensive mistakes if they rush ahead without a plan. Helping people plan is what we’re here for.”
For more information about the work of the Hurley Climate Smart Task Force, go to the website climatesmarthurley.org.
