The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has recognized 12 contractors across the state who have demonstrated outstanding commitment in 2013 to helping low-income homeowners reduce their energy bills and improve the energy efficiency of their homes. The contractors, all participants in the EmPower New York program, were recently acknowledged at regional contractor meetings. 

For the second year running, top honors went to NYS Energy Audits of Brooklyn—named Contractor of the Year for continuing to reach out to underserved residents, using training as an opportunity to enhance its client offering and reflecting the quality that is the heart of the EmPower mission. 

Other contractors that received Outstanding Contractor awards are:

• Adirondack Community Action Program, Elizabethtown
• Energy Management Technical Services, New Hartford
• Pro Action of Steuben and Yates Inc., Bath
• Wayne County Action Program Inc., Lyons
• Town Building Systems, Sanborn
• New Buffalo Impact, Tonawanda
• Ideal Energy Solutions, Aurora
• Home Energy Consultants, Pleasant Valley
• MBT Design, Bridgeport
• Green Home Logic, Hempstead
• Community Environmental Center, Long Island City

“Congratulations to all of the winners for their exemplary performance in delivering this valuable program to homeowners and renters,” said John B. Rhodes, President and CEO, NYSERDA. “EmPower New York underscores Governor Cuomo’s commitment to helping improve the lives of low-income families through homes that are more energy efficient, comfortable, healthier and safer.” 

More than 150 contractors participate in the EmPower New York program. NYSERDA staff determines award winners based on quality assurance inspections, work turn-around time, production levels and overall responsiveness and compliance with the program. 

EmPower New York services are free to income-eligible households and anyone eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) (those earning 60 percent of the state median household income). Services include installation of high-efficiency lighting and replacement of inefficient refrigerators and freezers with new ENERGY STAR^®certified models; heating efficiency services, such as insulation and air sealing; and health and safety testing to ensure the home is properly ventilated and combustion gases are not escaping into the living space.

About NYSERDA

NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and funding to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. NYSERDA professionals work to protect our environment and create clean-energy jobs. NYSERDA has been developing partnerships to advance innovative energy solutions in New York since 1975. For more information, visit http://nyserda.ny.gov or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram.