NEWBURGH—The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has awarded $320,000 in grants to the Town of Newburgh focused on the Roseton and Danskammer sites in Newburgh, NY, as part of the Just Transition Site Reuse Planning Program.
Each site will receive $160,000 toward redevelopment planning including site reuse feasibility, workforce development strategy, and market analysis tied to clean technology. The NYSERDA grant awards were announced by the Orange County Partnership of Goshen.
The grant funding for the studies does not indicate plant closures, it provides resources for proactive strategic planning, Orange County Partnership officials noted. The NYSERDA grant announcement builds on the recent allocation of nearly $4 million in federal funding to the Educational and Cultural Trust Fund of the Electrical Industry. These funds will support the establishment of a Global Wind Organization (GWO) onshore and offshore wind safety training facility in Newburgh, aimed at preparing New Yorkers for careers in the growing clean energy sector.
The Orange County Partnership has been focused on supporting emerging sectors, including the offshore wind manufacturing supply chain. The funding will enable detailed planning efforts to reposition these sites, with a focus on attracting offshore wind supply chain manufacturers and clean energy.
Conor Eckert, Vice President of the Orange County Partnership was optimistic about the potential uses of the Roseton and Danskammer sites, stating, "These grants are a dynamic first step toward positioning Orange County and the Hudson Valley as a clean technology hub and a key location for the offshore wind supply chain. The sites have heavy power, rail access, and maritime infrastructure—all unique attributes that are attractive for clean tech investment and job creation. We thank NYSERDA for their continued partnership.”
Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus also commented on the announcement, emphasizing the economic potential of the project. “The redevelopment of the Roseton and Danskammer sites presents a unique opportunity for Orange County to lead in the emerging clean energy sector. The economic impact of attracting offshore wind supply chain manufacturers to our region could be substantial, bringing new jobs and investment to our community. We are grateful for NYSERDA's support and look forward to working with our partners to make this vision a reality,” he said.
The Roseton and Danskammer sites, which currently house active power plants, are ideally situated to become key components of New York's clean energy future. The planning process, supported by these grants, will explore the best uses for these sites, focusing on sustainable development that supports both the local economy and New York State's climate goals.