Stony Brook University will receive $22 million as part of New York’s $1 billion Sustainable Future Program to design and build two geothermal network projects on its West Campus and at Stony Brook Southampton. The announcement was made by Governor Kathy Hochul during the U.S. Climate Alliance roundtable on September 24.
The Sustainable Future Program represents the largest climate investment in New York’s history. It aims to accelerate capital projects that support the state’s transition to cleaner energy, create jobs, lower energy costs, and reduce emissions.
“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,” Governor Hochul said. “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.”
A total of $200 million from the program is allocated to expand thermal energy networks across municipal and state-owned buildings. This includes several projects within the State University of New York (SUNY) system such as those at Stony Brook.
“We’re grateful for Governor Hochul’s ongoing dedication to advancing New York’s clean energy future,” said William Herrmann, vice president for facilities and services and chief sustainability officer at Stony Brook University. “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.”
At Stony Brook Southampton, the funding will be used to expand an existing geothermal system at the campus library to additional buildings. On the main campus, it will establish a new network connecting the Multidisciplinary Engineering and Neuro-AI buildings with the existing engineering complex.
“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,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “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, stated: “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.”