Technical Assistance and Workshops

NYSERDA works directly with local governments one-on-one to help them meet their clean energy goals. Free technical assistance is available to local governments on clean energy zoning, permitting, property taxes, procurement, State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR), or any other question your municipality may have. Below is our listing of free workshops, available for continuing education credits, that are available for local governments. 

For counties participating in NYSERDA’s Clean Energy Communities (CEC) Program, hosting county-wide workshops is a High Impact Action that can help earn points toward grant funding and designation. Find more information about the CEC Program.

Request Technical AssistanceIf you would like to request a free training for your municipality or have questions you can email [email protected] or fill out our technical assistance form.

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Workshops for Continuing Education Credits

Clean Energy and Your Comprehensive Plan

Annual Training for Planning & Zoning Board of Appeals Members: 1.5-2 hours in length

Provides an introduction to best practices and strategies for incorporating clean energy goals and objectives into a new or updated municipal comprehensive plan. Information presented in the course ranges from introductory planning and clean energy basics to detailed comprehensive planning strategies.

Overview of the Model Solar Energy Law

Annual Training for Planning & Zoning Board of Appeals Members: 1.5-2 hours in length

Offers a review of the Model Solar Energy Law developed by NYSERDA as a best practice guidance. NYSERDA reviewed solar laws statewide and nationally to develop an all-inclusive model for municipalities to use to adopt a solar law.

Overview of the Model Battery Energy Storage Law

Annual Training for Planning & Zoning Board of Appeals Members — 1.5-2 hours in length

Offers a review of the Model Battery Energy Storage Law developed by NYSERDA as best practice guidance. This course also reviews battery energy storage technology basics, along with important code considerations with regard to siting battery storage projects.

Understanding Solar PV Permitting and Inspecting in New York State

Accredited by: NY Dept. of State Division of Building Standards & Codes (DOS BSC) 2 in-service hours

Provides an in-depth review of the entire process of permitting and inspecting solar systems in New York State from start to finish, including the NYS Unified Solar Permit. Workshop includes topics on code enforcement and administration, uniform fire prevention, and building code.

Battery Energy Storage for First Responders

Accredited by: NY Dept. of State, Division of Building Standards & Codes (DOS BSC) — 2 in-service hours

Identifies potential hazards and safety considerations associated with battery energy storage systems. This course covers fire prevention, compliance with the updated New York State Uniform Code, and emergency response considerations