Stony Brook University will receive $22 million to develop two geothermal network projects as part of New York’s $1 billion Sustainable Future Program. The initiative was announced by Governor Kathy Hochul during the U.S. Climate Alliance roundtable on September 24. The funding is part of a broader effort to accelerate capital projects that support New York’s transition to cleaner energy.
Governor Hochul stated, “New York is a national leader in climate action, and we’re proving that we can build a thriving green economy while protecting our planet. While others may retreat, we are doubling down. The $1 billion investment from our Sustainable Future Program will directly benefit New Yorkers by making our homes more energy-efficient, our schools healthier, and our communities more resilient. We are creating jobs, improving public health, and ensuring a just and affordable transition for every community.”
The program dedicates $200 million to expand thermal energy networks in municipal and state-owned buildings. Stony Brook is among several State University of New York (SUNY) campuses selected for these projects.
William Herrmann, vice president for facilities and services and chief sustainability officer at Stony Brook University, said, “We’re grateful for Governor Hochul’s ongoing dedication to advancing New York’s clean energy future. This investment empowers Stony Brook to deploy cutting-edge thermal energy systems that lower carbon emissions and boost campus-wide efficiency. It also deepens our collaboration with the state as we translate research into impactful climate solutions.”
The funding will be used for two main projects: expanding the existing geothermal system at the Southampton campus library to additional buildings and establishing a new network on the main campus connecting the Multidisciplinary Engineering and Neuro-AI buildings with the current engineering complex.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. commented, “SUNY remains committed to helping Governor Hochul achieve the state’s climate goals, and thanks to her investment we will be able to transition the State University of New York at Buffalo, SUNY Purchase, and the State University of New York at Stony Brook to more efficient and sustainable energy sources. This funding will help SUNY meet its goal of reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions and ensure students will have a brighter, more sustainable future.”
Doreen M. Harris, president and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, added, “Governor Hochul has made clear her commitment to supporting generational investments like the Sustainable Future Program to foster an improved quality of life for all New Yorkers. Cleaning the air we breathe while lowering energy costs by advancing renewable energy projects, zero-emission transportation options and energy efficient building upgrades provides communities across the state with a critical foundation for a sustainable future.”
