Plug-in hybrids in New York

The state of New York is in the process of adding plug-in hybrid vehicles to its state fleet, through the purchase of new units and the conversion of its current fleet to electric power.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, NYSERDA, is a public benefit corporation created in 1975 under Article 8, Title 9 of the State Public Authorities Law through the reconstitution of the New York State Atomic and Space Development Authority. Their goal is to reduce New York Emissions and create/research new technologies to do so.

The Electric Power Research Institute(EPRI) conducts research relating to the generation, delivery and use of electricity.

NYSERDA has begun a study on the effects of plug-in hybrids on the power grid; plug-in hybrids save a lot of gas around 100 mpg, but plugginh them into the grid outs a lot of pressure on the grid and makes it hard and aggravating on the power grid. The study include:

Some quotes from workers at these organizations about this study: "Our analysis will develop the definitive assessment of the impact of both introducing and the widespread use of plug-in hybrid vehicles onto the transmission and distribution systems," said Arshad Mansoor, vice president of power delivery and utilization at EPRI. "This grid assessment is another crucial step that will lead to commercialization of plug-in hybrid vehicles," he said, "and NYSERDA deserves a lot of credit for taking this important initiative."

On August 2, 2006, New York Governor George E. Pataki and State Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno announced plans for a new $10-million State program to convert vehicles in the State fleet to plug-in hybrids. Inside the $10 million is 600 state hybrids that will be converted to plug-ins. Also the New York State Alternative Fuel Vehicle Research Laboratory will conduct testing for technologies such as fuel cell systems, alternative fuels, and greenhouse gas reduction technologies. In addition, focus will be given to the public transportation systems to make them more efficient. The first Plug-in hybrid was added to the fleet on December 20, 2006.

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Wikipedia