Tech Valley News
Innovative Energy Programs Head to Region
Learn more at Govenor George Pataki's Press Announcement
A state-of-the-art alternative fuel research laboratory will be built at the Saratoga Technology + Energy Park (STEP). The New York State Alternative Fuel Vehicle Research Laboratory -- the first of its kind in the nation -- will develop scientific data to formulate new programs to conserve energy, diversify our energy supplies, decrease dependence on imported fuels and protect our environment. The $24 million facility will conduct testing for advanced and emerging technologies such as fuel cell propulsion systems, alternative fuels and greenhouse gas reduction technologies. Special focus will be on test systems to quantify all emissions from diesel buses and trucks, which will help to develop advanced control and retrofit technologies for these vehicles. The laboratory also will promote public-private partnership projects and educational programs, including research grants, technology development, and technician training applicable to emerging technologies such as alternative fuel concepts.
“New York State has taken significant steps to reduce our dependence on imported energy, and we will continue to promote cutting-edge research and technology that will build a brighter energy future here in the Empire State,” Governor George Pataki said.
“These new programs are important tools in our effort to develop clean and renewable fuels, promote greater energy efficiency, and create jobs in the emerging energy sector,” the Governor said. “The Saratoga Technology and Energy Park is an exciting venue for renewable and clean energy companies, and today we take another step to solidify New York’s position as a national and global leader in alternative energy research and development.”
Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno said, “Rising energy costs make it imperative that we continue doing everything possible to promote, develop, and utilize alternative energy sources. This state-of-the-art facility will be a tremendous addition to the Saratoga Technology and Energy Park, creating new jobs and fostering innovative research capabilities into the clean energy technologies that are rapidly emerging as a significant part of our state’s economy. This announcement, coupled with additional funding for expanded hybrid vehicle usage, will also strengthen New York’s status as a world-renowned leader in alternative, clean energy initiatives.”
Also, Electrovaya, a high-tech battery manufacturing firm, announced plans to expand its operations into 5,000 square feet of manufacturing space at STEP, with additional expansion planned. The company’s lithium-ion batteries can be used in a variety of products and applications. Initially, Electrovaya will have 15 employees in Tech Valley, but expects to increase its workforce to 75 people in the next five years. Other companies with opertations at STEP include Starfire Systems and DayStar Technologies. Hudson Valley Community College announced that it would open up a training facility to focus on alternative energy at the tech park. The school also revealed plans for an alternative fuels certification program to begin in the fall 2007. The Saratoga Technology and Energy Park, which is operated by NYSERDA, is the nation’s first site dedicated to developing clean-energy and environmental technology companies. It was designed to attract companies involved in alternative and renewable energy, environmental technologies, transportation technologies, power generation, buildings, and clean-energy workforce development. STEP, which is owned and administered by NYSERDA, supports collaboration and interaction in a campus-like setting, and is an entry point into New York’s network of state agencies, universities, and centers of excellence. 
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