Stony Brook University will receive funding to design and construct multiple solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays across campus as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement of $150 million in climate resiliency grants. The funding, allocated through the Environmental Bond Act, aims to advance sustainability and energy efficiency at public colleges across New York State.
Stony Brook was one of four SUNY campuses selected for funding, in addition to three CUNY campuses. The project will support operational efficiencies, reduce energy use, lower greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to the decarbonization of Long Island’s electric grid.
“New York’s higher education institutions play a significant role in leading by example to help advance a cleaner, greener future,” Governor Hochul said. “The $150 million in new investments from the Environmental Bond Act will allow SUNY and CUNY to take a significant step forward in electrifying campuses and integrating cleaner energy solutions to reduce pollution and help New York’s colleges become more energy efficient.”
The initiative aligns with New York State’s broader climate goals and complements Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget proposal, which includes more than $1 billion in funding for sustainability efforts. This investment represents the largest climate-related allocation in state history, aimed at reducing pollution, cutting energy costs and creating jobs.
“With thanks to Governor Hochul, SUNY’s campuses are leading the way in advancing sustainability and addressing climate change,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “This Bond Act funding for four SUNY projects will help achieve New York State’s ambitious decarbonization goals and build a more sustainable future.”
“We are thrilled to receive funding for a solar PV project through Governor Hochul’s Environmental Bond Act,” said Bill Herrmann, vice president for facilities and services at Stony Brook University. “Sustainability is one of the pillars of Stony Brook, and these solar installations will play an important role in our continued commitment to a more sustainable campus.
“By generating clean, renewable energy, the solar PV arrays will help us reduce our carbon footprint and improve air quality. They will also provide us with additional capacity for future campus growth,” added Herrmann. “We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her commitment to sustainability and for her support of our project. We look forward to working with our partners to design and construct the solar PV arrays and to seeing the positive impact they will have on our campus and the surrounding community.”
The installation of solar PV arrays at Stony Brook will support on-site renewable power generation, improve air quality and provide additional capacity for future campus growth.
“We appreciate Governor Hochul giving Stony Brook the opportunity to contribute to decarbonizing the electric grid and supporting local businesses,” said Tom Lanzilotta, assistant director of energy management and sustainability. “Once completed, this project will serve as a living laboratory for students, providing hands-on learning experiences. We are proud to play a role in the fight against climate change, one solar panel at a time.” Lanzilotta and his team are beginning a review process to determine the best placement for the solar PV arrays.
By investing in renewable energy infrastructure, Stony Brook strengthens its commitment to sustainability while contributing to statewide efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
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