Andrew Cuomo, Governor of New York State, has unveiled plans to invest $800m into improving the efficiency of the state's public buildings.
The New York Power Authority (NYPA) will commit $450m over the next four years, with the goal of reducing the consumption of state-owned buildings by 20 per cent.
The largest and highest consuming buildings will be targeted initially, with loans being paid back through utility bill savings in many cases.
A further $350m will be provided over the same period to support efficiency financing and technical services for county, local government and school buildings in the state.
In addition, Cuomo announced plans to construct the East Coast's first solar and wind testing facility, as well as a desire to double the annual rate of installed solar.
Cuomo said, 'New York State has a long and proud history of leading the nation in protecting the environment and promoting clean and affordable energy.
'From the historic On-Bill Recovery Financing Program, to the NY-Sun Initiative, and Energy Highway project, New York State has been at the forefront of creating a more sustainable, cleaner future. The initiatives announced today will save businesses, homeowners, and taxpayers money and help ensure that our state remains a leader in clean energy production and environmental protection.'
Gil Quinones, president and CEO of the NYPA, added, 'Governor Cuomo has laid out a bold vision for upgrading the energy efficiency of state and local governments to reduce energy use, utility bills, and carbon emissions.
'Accelerated and increased investments in energy-saving technologies, such as those announced by the Governor today, will result in significant benefits for the environment. These measures will also create jobs, keep energy dollars in New York State, and free up resources for the essential services of tax-supported public facilities.'