Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the launch of a $10 million program aimed at expanding the use of clean heating and cooling solutions in New York. The Clean Heat for All: Window Heat Pump Demonstration program is now accepting applications from manufacturers and vendors interested in qualifying and demonstrating packaged window heat pumps (PWHPs) in multifamily buildings throughout the state. The initiative is intended to increase consumer confidence in heat pump technology, following the positive outcomes of a pilot project conducted with the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA).
“Making clean energy more affordable is key to ensuring every New Yorker can benefit from our transition to a greener future,” Governor Hochul said. “Clean Heat for All demonstrates how strong partnerships and proven solutions can accelerate that transition, helping families save energy costs, improving comfort in their homes and reducing harmful emissions across the state.”
The program will be managed by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). It offers financial incentives to approved manufacturers and vendors who install PWHPs for demonstration purposes in selected multifamily buildings with more than five units.
Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of NYSERDA, stated, “The success of the Clean Heat for All program brought ground-breaking technology into the homes of New Yorkers to experience the benefits of clean, efficient heating and cooling. Through these demonstration projects, more residents and building owners will be able to experience greater comfort, control, and air quality from heat pump technology and feel confident in the switch to these low emission solutions.”
The application process includes two phases. In Phase One, starting immediately, manufacturers and vendors whose products meet certain technical standards can apply for qualification. Those approved may then proceed to Phase Two, where they are eligible for incentives covering up to 50 percent of costs (up to $1,500 per unit) at market rate sites or up to 75 percent (up to $2,250 per unit) at low- or moderate-income sites.
Applications for Phase One must be submitted by January 30, 2026; incentive applications are due by June 30, 2027.
Performance data collected during Phase Two will help inform building owners, tenants, operators, utilities in New York State—and potentially other areas with similar housing needs—about the effectiveness of PWHPs as an option for retrofitting space heating systems.
This new program adds to NYSERDA’s existing Clean Heat for All portfolio alongside other initiatives like the Packaged Terminal Heat Pump program. It builds on collaborative efforts among NYCHA, NYSERDA, and the New York Power Authority (NYPA), which previously piloted cold-climate window heat pumps.
Justin E. Driscoll, President and CEO of NYPA said: “Through the Power Authority’s strategic partnership with NYCHA and NYSERDA, the Clean Heat for All program led to the development of energy-efficient heat pumps that can be easily installed in multifamily buildings. The continued investment in this innovative technology will make it more affordable to implement, improving comfort and climate control for New York residents.”
RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal commented: “Expanding access to clean, efficient heating and cooling is essential to improving the quality of life for residents across New York, including those who live in affordable multifamily developments. The $10 million Clean Heat for All Pilot program supports HCR’s mission to preserve and improve our existing housing stock, and ensure safe, sustainable, affordable homes for all New Yorkers. By embracing and funding innovative technologies like packaged window heat pumps, we’re helping to build a healthier, more resilient housing stock for the future.”
Lisa Bova-Hiatt, Chief Executive Officer at NYCHA added: “NYCHA is proud to have been the catalyst and proving ground for this innovative program. The success of the initial Clean Heat for All pilot…demonstrates the viability of these window heat pumps as a key solution for providing reliable heating and cooling while improving energy efficiency. We are thrilled to be involved in driving a market transformation that will serve to benefit not only NYCHA residents but New Yorkers statewide.”
John Mandyck from Urban Green Council said: “We applaud NYSERDA’s new Window Heat Pump Demonstration program. It will expedite technologies that will fill important gaps in the industry and provide affordable electrification solutions for more New Yorkers.”
NYSERDA has invested over $5.6 billion through various programs aimed at decarbonizing buildings across New York State by supporting high-efficiency electric heating technologies such as room heat pumps.
The funding comes from proceeds generated by participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative—a cooperative effort among Northeast states aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions from power plants.
New York’s broader climate agenda targets an emissions-free economy by 2050 through investments designed both to foster economic growth via green jobs as well as direct benefits toward disadvantaged communities.
