Request for Application: Renewable Energy Access and Community Help Program (REACH)

The New York Power Authority (NYPA) is inviting renewable energy and battery storage developers, as well as other interested parties, to participate in a Request for Application (RFA) aimed at supporting the Renewable Energy Access and Community Help Program (REACH). This program is designed to provide utility bill relief to low-income residents in disadvantaged communities across all counties in New York State. Participation in this RFA is voluntary and non-binding, offering applicants the opportunity to learn more about the REACH program and, if eligible and interested, to enter into a Voluntary Contribution Agreement. These agreements allow applicants to contribute funding that supports community benefits and can enhance their standing in other incentive programs managed by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), particularly those involving renewable energy certificates or energy storage credits with specific disadvantaged community commitments. The RFA does not impose set-asides for service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, nor does it establish specific Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) participation goals. There is no deadline for this ongoing application process, and non-participation will not negatively impact future opportunities with NYPA. The program emphasizes collaboration between developers and NYPA to improve energy equity through voluntary funding contributions, thereby reinforcing commitments to disadvantaged communities. Interested parties are encouraged to apply through the NYPA REACH web form, with primary and secondary contacts available for inquiries. This initiative represents NYPA’s strategic effort to foster renewable energy development while directly supporting vulnerable populations in New York State.