QAZAQ GREEN.  New York has launched its first competitive solicitation for bulk energy storage, aiming to procure one gigawatt (GW) of capacity as part of the state’s broader goal to deploy 6 GW of energy storage by 2030. The initiative, announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, marks a major step toward modernizing New York’s electric grid, reducing energy costs, and ensuring long-term reliability, according to the official website of New York State.

Administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the request for proposals (RFP) is the first in a series of three planned solicitations under the state’s Bulk Energy Storage Program. The program is designed to support the safe and strategic deployment of energy storage infrastructure, with strict compliance to updated safety codes and emergency response standards developed by New York’s Fire Safety Working Group.

Governor Hochul emphasized the strategic value of the initiative, stating: “Today’s action is another example of New York’s ongoing commitment to strengthening our grid, ensuring the state continues to have a more affordable and reliable electricity system now and well into the future.”

The new solicitation introduces the Index Storage Credit (ISC), a market-based incentive modeled after other clean energy credits used in New York, such as RECs and ORECs. The ISC mechanism provides revenue certainty to developers while encouraging participation in energy and capacity markets. Payments will be tied to the operational availability of energy storage systems under 15–25 year contracts.

To ensure only qualified proposals are considered, interested developers must first complete a Step One eligibility application by September 4, 2025. Only those deemed eligible will proceed to Step Two for full project evaluation.

NYSERDA has embedded safety compliance directly into the program, requiring peer review, inspections, and comprehensive safety and security plans before any payments are issued. Additionally, the NY Green Bank, a division of NYSERDA, is offering financing support to accelerate project deployment.

The solicitation is backed by interagency support, with New York’s Public Service Commission, Department of Environmental Conservation, Department of State, and Division of Homeland Security highlighting the importance of energy storage in grid resilience, decarbonization, and affordability.

The 6 GW Energy Storage Roadmap also includes funding to support 200 megawatts (MW) of residential-scale storage and 1,500 MW of commercial and community-scale projects. At least 35% of the benefits from these initiatives are designated for disadvantaged communities.

This solicitation represents a key pillar of New York’s broader climate agenda, which aims to create a zero-emissions energy system by 2040 and a carbon-neutral economy by 2050—while prioritizing equity, job creation, and environmental justice.