Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled New York’s first competitive solicitation for bulk energy storage, aiming to procure 1 gigawatt (GW) of capacity as part of the state’s broader goal of deploying 6 GW of energy storage by 2030. The move is a key step in enhancing the resilience, affordability, and reliability of the state’s power grid.
Administered by NYSERDA under its Bulk Energy Storage Program, this RFP is the first of three planned solicitations. It seeks to support various storage technologies and mandates adherence to the state’s recently updated safety codes, developed in collaboration with the Fire Safety Working Group. While the codes take effect in January 2026, NYSERDA has preemptively integrated them into all its energy storage initiatives.
A novel Index Storage Credit (ISC) mechanism underpins the program, rewarding operational performance and encouraging participation in wholesale markets. Projects will be awarded long-term contracts spanning 15–25 years, with ISC payments contingent on project readiness and safety certification.
Interested developers must submit Step One eligibility applications by September 4, 2025. Qualified applicants will then be invited to submit detailed proposals.
Support from NY Green Bank and NYSERDA’s siting team will further streamline development, offering financing and technical guidance to ensure responsible project rollout.
Stakeholders across the state, including environmental, energy, and community leaders, praised the initiative as a major milestone in New York’s transition to clean energy and grid modernization—particularly benefiting disadvantaged communities.
