NYPA wins utility-industry Technology Transfer Award from Electric Power Research Institute

State-of-the-art computer modeling tool by NYPA and other utilities will support integration of renewables and other clean energy

The New York Power Authority has received an award from the Electric Power Research Institute for its efforts to advance a comprehensive computer model to interpret how carbon-reduction strategies by utilities could affect New York.

EPRI presented the award to NYPA Feb. 10 during meetings of the institute's environment advisers in Charleston, South Carolina.

EPRI, which conducts research and development related to the generation, delivery and use of electricity, presented the Technology Transfer Award to John Kahabka, NYPA vice president of environmental, health and safety. NYPA teamed with 12 other utilities and EPRI in developing the U.S. Regional Economy, Greenhouse Gas and Energy (US-REGEN) model.

"I'm privileged to have worked on this initiative, for supporting a macro, holistic approach in the making of informed decisions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and diversifying clean energy sources," Kahabka said.

Kahabka, a long-time NYPA employee and a resident of Newburgh, led the Power Authority's US-REGEN contributions, which were critical to the design and development of the model, which is capable of providing insights concerning important electric power sector energy and environmental issues.

"We're very enthusiastic about this new analytical tool for providing complete information on the impacts of different energy options in reducing carbon emissions," said Gil C. Quiniones, NYPA president and CEO and vice chairman of EPRI. "This will add to our capability of exercising thorough due diligence in serving the public and is a demonstration of the effectiveness of our teaming with EPRI and other utilities in support of knowledge-sharing initiatives."

EPRI presented its 2014 Technology Transfer Awards for applied environmental research and development to 38 individuals, representing 24 electric power companies.

"The 2014 Technology Transfer Award winners made significant achievements in applying EPRI research results, or acting as champions for EPRI research programs," said Anda Ray, vice president of environment and chief sustainability officer at EPRI. "The commitment and collaboration demonstrated by these individuals and teams enables the power industry to continuously improve its safety, reliability and affordability, and be more environmentally responsible for the benefit of their stakeholders and society."