NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ANNOUNCES CLEAN ENERGY PROGRAM WITH $5 MILLION WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT GRANT OPPORTUNITY

The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) has announced a $5 million workforce development grant opportunity for clean energy solutions. This grant, secured by Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York Power Authority (NYPA), supports the creation or expansion of statewide clean energy training or pre-apprenticeship programs, bolstering New York State’s green economy.

“Workforce development in clean energy is key to providing New Yorkers with sustainable, successful careers in a growing sector. In addition to training a new workforce, we will also retain skilled workers in this essential field," said Commissioner Roberta Reardon. "The green economy is opening doors to opportunities for job seekers in underserved communities. I thank Governor Hochul for continuing to create pathways to exceptional careers that safeguard our environment for years to come."

The Office of Just Energy Transition’s (OJET) Growing the Clean Energy Workforce (GCEW) program will provide funding to support workforce training, retraining, and apprenticeships to prepare workers for careers in the renewable energy field. Supported projects will provide pre-apprenticeship opportunities or training in electric vehicle maintenance andcharging, renewable energy, electrification of buildings, or energy intensive industries.   

NYSDOL will connect historically underrepresented individuals, including those within disadvantaged communities (DACs) to: 

• High-quality green jobs through clean energy training/upskilling 
• Pre-apprenticeships
• Wraparound services 

This program not only provides accessible development to those who have traditionally been left behind in energy industry surges, but also acts as a restorative mechanism to those who have been most impacted by climate change.

Interested organizations can learn more about the Request for Proposal (RFP) and apply for funding on NYSDOL’s website. Grant submissions are due by 4:00 PM EST on Friday, January 10, 2025. Grant awards may not exceed $500,000 per bidder, please contact [email protected] with any questions.