ASC's Intersections Newsletter — August 23rd, 2024
Nora’s Note
Electrifying the future. New York is advancing electrification of buildings and transportation across the State, with a focus on affordability for all. This week, the Public Service Commission approved a low-income pilot program offering tailored bill assistance to about 1,000 customers, ensuring energy costs don't exceed 6% of their annual income. Simultaneously, a new grid planning process is being developed to accommodate rising electricity demand due to electrification, and utilities are focusing on long-term planning processes and urgent grid upgrades. The State’s latest efforts, in tandem with funding made available through the Inflation Reduction Act and Empower+ (NYSERDA program), will ensure grid expansion and energy efficiency savings initiatives contribute equitable benefits to all New Yorkers.
Transportation
Airports to get $566M more for improvements. The Federal Aviation Administration announced 296 Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) to modernize airports in 47 states last week. This latest round of funding comes as air travel reaches record levels following the pandemic. Some projects that received funding include a solar microgrid at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, fire safety equipment at New York's Plattsburgh International Airport, and a people mover at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Read more to learn about the AIG program. (Source: Route Fifty)
CBS News: NJ Transit will offer free rides to all passengers from Aug. 26-Sept. 2
Smart Cities Dive: Largest intercity bus operator in US sees bright future for bus travel
ABC 7: Car-free zones, remote work being explored as ways to address traffic in LA during 2028 Olympics
Climate
East Harlem ‘Passive House’ Apartment Complex is the Nation’s Biggest Ultra-Green Development Yet. Sendero Verde, a 709-unit passive-house in East Harlem, provides affordable housing with energy-efficient design, cutting utility costs, and offering cleaner air and stable temperatures. For Black and Hispanic communities with higher street temperatures and a higher risk of heat-related illnesses and death, passive housing adds vital comfort. A $15 million fund aims to create 3,000 energy-efficient homes, doubling NYC’s passive projects since 2014. Read more about federal, New York state and city incentives for electrification and energy-efficiency. (Source: The City)
Smart Cities Dive: The US has its first national heat strategy. Here’s what to know.
Grist: How food banks prevented 1.8 million metric tons of carbon emissions last year
GovTech: Washington Lab Looks to Fast-Track Battery Storage Research
Economic Development
HUD’s latest affordable housing push is $100M for communities. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has launched a $100 million grant program to help communities overcome barriers to affordable housing, such as zoning and land-use policies. Going through a second round of funding, this Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) program aims to boost housing production and reduce costs. Applications are open until October 15. Read more to learn about the common themes and barriers identified by HUD. (Source: Smart Cities Dive)
Digital
FCC proposes new rules for AI-generated robocalls and robotexts. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed new rules to regulate AI-generated phone calls and texts. The proposal aims to clearly define AI-generated calls and enhance consumer protection by requiring companies to disclose when AI is used in communications, intending to help consumers identify and avoid potential scams. The FCC also seeks to safeguard legitimate AI uses, particularly for assisting individuals with disabilities. Read more about the FCC's ongoing efforts to curb the misuse of AI in robocalls and texts. (Source: Engadget)
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