Avangrid Networks Proposes Excelsior Connect to Power New York’s Future

By AVANGRID, Inc. | May 12, 2021


To meet the state’s clean energy goals, we must address the tale of two grids – moving clean renewable generation in upstate New York to the downstate region where it is needed.

Avangrid Networks’ Excelsior Connect project provides the solution.

A 108-mile, state-of-the-art underground transmission line that contributes environmental, economic, social and infrastructure benefits to New York, Avangrid Networks proudly submitted Excelsior Connect yesterday in response to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) Tier 4 Request for Proposals.

 

THE POWER OF NEW YORK

Excelsior Connect is the Power of New York, proposing to transmit 1200 MW of wind and solar energy generated in upstate New York through a highly efficient High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) line to New York City.

Addressing New York State’s requirement to generate 70 percent of its power from renewable sources by 2030, the Excelsior Connect project provides value to consumers by avoiding costly generation premiums and seeking to partner with the most cost-effective generators available.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

Operating in the Empire State for more than a decade and recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by the Ethisphere Institute, Avangrid Networks brings global expertise in this leading transmission technology and value to New Yorkers – all New Yorkers.

Teaming with Minority/Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) and making meaningful connections with Environmental Justice (EJ) communities and advocates, Excelsior Connect supports the state’s plan to ensure that at least 40 percent of Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) benefits accrue to disadvantaged communities. A prime example of this commitment can be seen in the creation of good-paying careers that help advance upward mobility.

Plus, by locating the underground transmission line largely in existing right of way, Excelsior Connect will protect communities and preserve the Hudson River.

 

ECONOMIC BENEFITS

Excelsior Connect is more than a solution to today’s energy problems – Excelsior Connect will power New York’s economic future.

By taking renewable energy generated in upstate New York to New York City, this proposed clean energy underground superhighway will create thousands of jobs throughout different regions of the state and help train the next generation of clean energy workers.

The project is teaming with educators and labor, leveraging Avangrid Networks’ expertise to advance and co-fund the SUNY/CUNY Clean Energy Jobs Consortium – a new energy training program.

With the Excelsior Connect Fund for NY, the project is committing millions of dollars to support community development projects along the project route, with a particular focus on Environmental Justice (EJ) communities.

 

EXCELSIOR CONNECT

Renewable. Responsible. Resilient.

Avangrid Networks’ Excelsior Connect is more than a promise realized.

It’s the Power of New York.

 

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About AVANGRID

AVANGRID, Inc. (NYSE: AGR) is a leading, sustainable energy company with approximately $36 billion in assets and operations in 24 U.S. states. With headquarters in Orange, Connecticut, AVANGRID has two primary lines of business: AVANGRID Networks and AVANGRID Renewables. AVANGRID Networks owns eight electric and natural gas utilities, serving more than 3.3 million customers in New York and New England. AVANGRID Renewables owns and operates a portfolio of renewable energy generation facilities across the United States. AVANGRID employs approximately 6,600 people. AVANGRID supports the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals and was named among the World’s Most Ethical Companies in 2019 and 2020 by the Ethisphere Institute. For more information, visit www.avangrid.com.

 

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