ALBANY, N.Y. (WRGB) — The University at Albany’s Atmospheric Sciences Research Center hosted its third annual Renewable Energy Pathways Conference this week, focusing on the impact of weather on energy development and innovation. The event, titled “Navigating a Weather-Driven Energy Sector,” featured over 30 speakers who explored the role of weather in the development and integration of renewable energy sources into the electric grid.
Officials and influential leaders discussed energy policy and ways to grow the energy economy. The conference began in 2023 with around 130 energy industry executives. It highlighted solar and wind power as the most abundant and affordable energy resources. According to the conference co-chair, integrating renewable resources into the electric grid will help reduce electricity costs.
Bruce Bailey, Executive in Residence with the Atmospheric Sciences Research Center at the University of Albany, said, “Well, we just had a panel talking about energy storage systems, short-term, long-term storage, also hydrogen system, as well as an alternate fuel.”
He added, “We also have other groups who are talking about how better weather information can better inform utilities to manage their system because with more wind and solar, those are variable resources, so the ability to predict those resources accurately is essential.”
In March, the university announced a $30 million decarbonization project aimed at reducing fossil fuel consumption. The initiative includes replacing two gas-fired absorption chillers at the university’s central power plant, changes to domestic hot water systems in over 25 buildings, and the installation of new hot water piping in the athletic facilities.
The conference comes amid pushback from New York Republican lawmakers on renewable energy plans and as New Yorkers face rising National Grid bills.