In this episode of OneDER Cast, Linda Tatlow, Director at NineDot Energy, takes us inside the ambitious world of deploying community-scale batteries in New York City. NineDot focuses on developing battery storage systems that support the grid in densely populated urban areas, where space is limited and renewable energy solutions like large solar farms aren't generally feasible. Linda shares how NineDot has carved out a niche in clean energy by addressing the city's energy needs with innovative battery projects that can be seamlessly integrated into the tight urban landscape, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and provide more stable, reliable energy to local communities.

Linda also emphasizes the strategic role of community-scale batteries in replacing the need for highly polluting peaker plants, which are used during times of peak energy demand. By charging batteries overnight when energy is cheaper and cleaner, and discharging them during the city's busiest hours, NineDot's solutions help reduce strain on the grid while making it more sustainable. This transition is particularly important in New York City, where space constraints limit the use of large renewable projects, but smaller, efficient battery deployments can make a significant impact.

As puzzle lovers at heart, NineDot embraces complex challenges. Linda discusses the hurdles the company has faced navigating New York’s complex permitting processes, collaborating with community stakeholders, and working with local organizations.

One standout example is NineDot’s Bronx project, where NineDot deployed a 3 MW / 12MWh community-scale battery system on a site previously used for storage. While developing the project, NineDot proactively involved the community from the start, providing education about the initiative, addressing their questions, and gathering valuable feedback. NineDot also worked with a nearby middle school to support a STEM after-school program and collaborated with the nonprofit ArtBridge, which brings public art to industrial sites, to create a mural that now decorates the battery site.

The episode offers a fascinating glimpse into how NineDot is driving New York City's clean energy future by blending cutting-edge technology with meaningful community involvement, all while tackling the unique challenges of urban energy storage.

Learn more about NineDot Energy here --> https://nine.energy/

Learn more about ArtBridge here --> https://art-bridge.org/

To try the NineDot puzzle go here --> https://www.permadi.com/fpcgi/9dots/

Learn more about about NY's 6 GW Energy Storage Roadmap here --> NY's 6 GW Energy Storage Roadmap

In this episode of OneDER Cast, the team dives into the story of Switch Maritime, a company that builds and leases zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell-powered maritime vessels. The podcast features Pace Ralli, CEO and co-founder, who shares the exciting journey of launching the first zero-emission ferry in San Francisco. He discusses how his background in energy efficiency, fundraising and his passion for clean technology led to the idea of decarbonizing the maritime industry, specifically to address the pollution caused by small, smoke-spewing ferries he would see on the East River in New York City.

Pace tells us about the many challenges they faced, including funding, navigating regulations with the U.S. Coast Guard, and securing hydrogen supply chains. Despite the struggles, they have successfully launched their ferry in San Francisco, proving that hydrogen fuel cells can offer a cleaner alternative for public transportation. One of the unique features of the ferry (besides it being quiet and smoke-free) is the team installed a drinking fountain on board where passengers can drink the pure water produced by the fuel cells.

Looking ahead, Pace reveals the company's plans to expand to New York City, hoping to bring clean energy ferries to the NYC Ferry system. He emphasizes the importance of public support in pushing for zero-emission transportation and invites listeners to be part of the clean maritime movement. Tune in to hear about the innovation behind Switch Maritime and the future of sustainable ferry transportation!​

Check out Switch Maritime here --> https://www.switchmaritime.com/

Check out the article "US' First Hydrogen-powered Ferry Sea Change Cleared to Enter Service" --> https://www.marinelink.com/news/us-first-hydrogenpowered-ferry-sea-change-513901

Have you ever wondered how grassroots organizations can spark massive changes in our communities? In today’s episode, we dive into the story of the Binghamton Regional Sustainability Coalition, now known as NEST. Founded in 2008, this dynamic group originally focused on economic, equity, and environmental sustainability. They quickly took a stand in New York's fracking debate, before evolving their mission to spearhead the Solarize program. This initiative wasn’t just about solar panels—it was about igniting a community-wide shift towards clean energy.

Join me as I talk with Adam Flint, NEST's Executive Director and we explore how NEST has navigated the complexities of clean energy adoption, from tackling political and economic hurdles to battling the interests of well-funded fossil fuel companies. Discover how they are transforming the Southern Tier of New York by promoting heat pumps, insulation, and solar power, while fostering new organizations like the Tier Energy Network and the Southern Door Community Land Trust.

We’ll delve into NEST's strategy of empowering disadvantaged communities, partnering with trusted contractors, and educating the public about clean energy incentives and technologies. Plus, hear about their push for smart investments and effective incentive programs to support low and moderate-income households. And don't miss our discussion on the exciting career opportunities in the clean energy sector—NEST is not just changing energy consumption, they’re shaping the future workforce. Tune in to find out how one organization is making clean energy accessible and paving the way for sustainable communities!

Find out more about NEST here --> https://www.nynest.org/