Burst of Energy: 2025 Clean Power Guide Launch Party in Kingston

By   |     |  Clean Power Guide

On January 29, Upstate House and Sustainable Hudson Valley hosted the 2025 Clean Power Guide launch party at Kingston’s Fuller Building, drawing an engaged crowd eager to learn about the latest in clean energy solutions. The evening featured refreshments, spirited conversation, and a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Chrisso Babcock of Sustainable Hudson Valley.

The event began with mingling and the distribution of the Clean Power Guide, a comprehensive resource for homeowners and renters seeking to decarbonize their living spaces. Attendees were able to connect directly with the guide’s authors, local energy coaches, and sustainability experts.

Central Hudson tabling at the Clean Power Guide launch party.

The panel discussion highlighted the latest trends in clean energy, such as heat pumps, EVs, and home batteries, while also addressing practical concerns about consumer protection and incentive programs. Panelists included Marcy Cleveland, owner of Green Building Specialists and a Kingston-based clean energy advocate; Steve Wehr, an EV expert and coach; Melinda McKnight of Energy Conservation Services, a building performance specialist with expertise in historic preservation; Jeff Luoma of Northeast Energy Efficient Partnerships, who focuses on heat pump adoption; and Craig Hightower, a renewable energy consultant and president of New Energy Project Management.

A standout topic of the evening was the potential of virtual power plants and decentralized grid storage. Panelists explained how residential energy storage—such as home batteries or EVs—could be leveraged as an alternative to traditional peaker plants, stabilizing the grid during peak demand. School buses were particularly noted as untapped resources for grid storage, with their large batteries offering a compelling way to enhance energy efficiency during off-seasons.

Hot Water Solutions tabling at the Clean Power Guide launch party.

Audience members posed numerous questions about clean energy investments, particularly in EVs and heat pumps, reflecting a desire for reassurance amid shifting federal policies. The panelists emphasized the resilience of New York’s incentive programs and provided actionable advice, such as engaging energy coaches and prioritizing energy assessments.

As the event wrapped up, attendees left with a renewed sense of empowerment and practical tools to tackle their clean energy goals. The 2025 Clean Power Guide launch was more than a celebration—it was a rallying point for a community committed to sustainable living. Thanks to all who attended to learn about the latest clean energy news and to our sponsors: Hot Water Solutions, RYCOR, Central Hudson, WaterFurnace International, Lighthouse Solar, Energy Conservation Services, and Mid-Hudson Energy Transition.

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