Clean Energy Career Pathways Training

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is seeking proposals for clean energy career pathways projects that prepare new workers for entry-level clean energy careers. These projects must include clean energy technical training combined with career preparation, wraparound services, and job placement support. The funding is designed to build or expand training infrastructure and capacity to create an equitable and inclusive pipeline of skilled talent for New York's clean energy labor market.

All training funded under this solicitation must be industry-driven and meet a demonstrated business need. Eligible training focuses on five clean energy technology areas: energy efficiency and building electrification; renewable energy; energy storage; smart grid; and electric vehicle charging stations (installation, operation and maintenance). Energy efficiency and building electrification (EE/BE) are the primary focus, with approximately 80 percent of the funding reserved for EE/BE technology areas. In 2025, the New York State Public Service Commission directed NYSERDA to serve as the single program administrator in workforce development, emphasizing that training curricula and program designs align with contractor needs to create a pipeline of trainees for EE/BE contractors.

Eligible activities include delivery of technical training; equipment purchases for hands-on training or training labs; training of trainers; test and certification fees; internships; career preparation and wraparound services; and job placement services including New York State Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeships. All training must take place in New York State and serve New York State residents. Multiple submission deadlines are available throughout 2026 and 2027: Round 1 (May 20, 2026), Round 2 (July 22, 2026), Round 3 (September 23, 2026), Round 4 (November 23, 2026), Round 5 (January 20, 2027), Round 6 (March 24, 2027), Round 7 (May 26, 2027), Round 8 (July 21, 2027), Round 9 (September 22, 2027), and Round 10 (November 23, 2027).