Finger Lakes communities earn Clean Energy Community status

Twenty-two communities in the Finger Lakes region have earned the state’s Clean Energy Community designation. The city of Rochester and several area towns and villages are on the list.

In total, 200 communities in the state have completed more than 1,250 total high-impact clean energy actions. The designation recognizes community leadership in reducing energy use, cutting costs and driving clean energy, all supporting the state’s clean energy goals.

Overall, the 1,255 high-impact clean energy action items completed by communities represent more than 86 percent of the state’s population in 60 counties and all 10 Economic Development Council regions. Some of the largest communities across New York State have been designated Clean Energy Communities, including the city of New York, Albany County, St. Lawrence County, Suffolk County and the Town of Hempstead.

“New York is a national leader in combating climate change, and this significant milestone demonstrates that communities in every corner of this great state are committed to our efforts to create a more sustainable future,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said. “These 200 communities serve as a model for cities and towns across this state and this nation to reduce energy use and preserve our environment for generations to come.”

The $16 million Clean Energy Communities initiative supports local governments across the state by providing grants to eligible municipalities to implement energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable development projects in their communities.

View a map to see Clean Energy Communities, actions completed and communities engaged in the Clean Energy Communities initiative.