STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A recently announced MTA solar roof initiative could create a significant, new revenue stream while also generating sustainable, green energy.
Earlier this week, the agency announced it will look to lease millions of square feet in roof space to companies interested in generating sustainable solar energy.
“Green energy always had a dual benefit – it can help save the planet and it can be a big money-maker as well,” said MTA Chief Development Officer Janno Lieber. “The MTA is already one of the nation’s leading forces in reducing carbon emissions."
The MTA has identified over 10 million square feet of industrial roof space -- across 100 bus depots, train yards, repair shops and commuter lots -- that could potentially generate over 100 megawatts of emission-free energy, capable of powering over 18,000 NYC households.
“The recently approved Central Business District Tolling system will also reduce emissions and generate funds for the MTA, and this common-sense, innovative new program will further help the environment while generating a significant amount of new revenue for the MTA,” Lieber said.
A Request for Proposals (RFP), seeking companies interested in leasing and developing solar roofs on seven MTA properties, generating an estimated 6.5 million megawatts, was released on Earth Day 2019.
The following seven locations were determined by the MTA Department of Environmental Sustainability and Compliance, MTA Real Estate, and the individual operating agencies:
- Ulmer Park Bus Depot | NYCT Department of Buses
- Queens Village Bus Depot | NYCT Department of Buses
- Coney Island Maintenance Facility | NYCT Department of Subways
- Jamaica Maintenance Facility | NYCT Department of Subways
- Hillside Support Facility | Long Island Rail Road
- Cortlandt Station Parking Lot | Metro-North Railroad
- Wassaic Station Operations Lot | Metro-North Railroad
Tours of the first seven locations for interested developers will begin next month, with RFP negotiations expected to take place this fall.
“The MTA’s operations avert annual greenhouse gas emissions of more 17 million metric tons, and this initiative will take our environmental leadership to a whole new level,” said Projjal Dutta, MTA director of sustainability.
“We have contributed to the Earth’s wellness by keeping millions of daily commuters out of cars and engendering compact development. With the Solar RFP the MTA will also become New York’s newest home for significant renewable power generation," Dutta continued.
