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Athens village awarded $20K in clean energy funding

Dec 28, 2021 5:45 am

Ted Remsnyder is reporting for Columbia-Greene Media the village of Athens will receive $20,000 in clean energy funding from the state of New York. As part of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, or NYSERDA, Clean Energy Communities initiative, the village qualified for the funding through a point-based system. To be eligible, the village took steps to become a clean energy community by completing a series of climate-friendly tasks, including securing the commitment of 10 residents to sign up for a community solar program. The $20,000 can be used to upgrade the village's energy infrastructure. Village board member Joshua Lipsman said the board will decide on how the money will be spent during its January 12 meeting. Ideas under consideration include the installation of software at the sewage treatment plant to reduce the use of electricity, and upgrades and renovations to the cultural center on Second Street, which belongs to the village. “We are delighted at this recognition from New York for our efforts in Athens to help our residents while helping the environment,” Mayor Amy Serrago said in a statement. “This is a win-win-win situation. Our residents win because these programs can save them money. Our village wins cash awards. The environment wins when we reduce our use of fossil fuels that create climate change.” Read the full story at HudsonValley360 [dot] com.