NYSERDA’s Response to COVID-19

NYSERDA Contractor and Construction Guidance

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is providing an update on the state’s response to COVID-19 as it relates to our clean energy programs. We understand this situation is rapidly changing, and our teams are here to help you navigate our programs during this unprecedented time.

The updated guidance reflects that on March 30, Governor Cuomo issued Executive Order 202.13 clarifying that only certain construction constitutes essential construction, and authorized the Empire State Development (“ESD”) to determine which construction is essential and thereby exempt from the in-person workforce prohibition.  ESD has posted Essential Construction Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions [PDF] for the energy industry, which defines for the energy industry what construction activity qualifies as essential or emergency-related.  

Accordingly, as set forth in Executive Order 202.13 and the Essential Construction Guidance, all program activity requiring in-person presence at a project site that is not defined as either essential or emergency-related shall pause until April 15, unless extended by future Executive Orders.  Please note this guidance applies to ALL NYSERDA programs and is effective immediately. 

We encourage you to review the Essential Construction Guidance, including with respect to the directive that all activities that do continue are in compliance with the Essential Construction Guidance and must maintain a clean and safe working environment, as well as appropriate social distancing, in accordance with guidance issued by the NYS Department of Health. 

We recognize the significant and difficult challenges businesses are facing right now, and NYSERDA stands ready to assist.

As new information becomes available, it will be posted on this page.

3/31/20 -- Updated NYSERDA Contractor and Construction Guidance [PDF]