NYPA Press Release

New Energy Curricula Engages Young People in Energy Technology and Innovation

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BRENTWOOD, N.Y. - As part of the New York Power Authority’s (NYPA) commitment to being a good neighbor, all seventh graders – 1,350 students – in the Brentwood School District are now learning about the basics of electricity and energy technology in a series of classes throughout December. The new STEM program is part of the state authority’s environmental justice outreach to underserved communities located near its power and transmission assets and facilities to help expose seventh graders to energy topics and better equip students to compete academically and professionally in the clean energy economy. This program involves students from the Brentwood community where NYPA has a power generation facility.

“The Power Authority is proud to provide energy-related, student-focused programs like this energy curriculum in Brentwood for all seventh graders that enhance educational equity and boost STEM competency in underserved neighborhoods throughout the state,” said Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll. “The Power Authority’s environmental justice program is continually establishing collaborative relationships with schools and community organizations to help ensure all New Yorkers have an opportunity to participate in the transition to a clean energy economy.”

The four-week Electricity Basics program, which discusses the different ways electricity is made and transmitted in New York State, runs through Dec. 20. Advanced versions of the curriculum are available for adults who are interested in learning about energy basics, reducing energy consumption and improving energy efficiency,

"The New York Power Authority's Electricity Basics program is a fantastic opportunity for our seventh-grade students to gain hands-on knowledge about energy technology and innovation. It’s inspiring to see their curiosity ignited as they explore foundational concepts in electricity—sparking an interest that could lead to future careers in the clean energy field,” said Brentwood Schools Superintendent Wanda Ortiz-Rivera. “These programs align seamlessly with our Graduation Plus+ vision, which aims to prepare students for success beyond high school by equipping them with knowledge and skills for emerging industries. We are deeply grateful for NYPA’s partnership, which reflects a strong commitment to our community and ensures our students have access to innovative and impactful educational opportunities."

State Senator Monica Martinez, who stopped by to visit the program, said, “STEM education is critical to equipping young students with the skills and curiosity needed to pursue rewarding career pathways. By fostering their interest at an early age, we are laying the foundation for a future workforce that is innovative, diverse and prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Much appreciation to the New York Power Authority for delivering this important program to the Brentwood School District and for educating 1,300+ seventh graders on electricity basics. I look forward to a continued partnership for residents in my district.”

Last year, the Power Authority developed a curriculum on offshore wind energy, with Stony Brook University, that was presented to all fifth-grade classrooms in Brentwood. Students learned about renewable resources and offshore wind energy and built floating wind turbine platform prototypes using test tubes, marbles and weights. Teachers within the district have since incorporated the OSW program learning outcomes and hands-on activity into their science classes.

NYPA’s environmental justice department is tasked with providing energy curricula to underserved communities located near NYPA power generation and transmission assets and strategic projects. In addition to the plant in Brentwood, NYPA has a power plants in Holtsville, also in Suffolk County.

The STEM curriculum is available to educators statewide through NYPA’s Virtual Learning Center.

New York State is deploying renewables such as hydropower, wind and solar to advance state goals for zero-emission electricity by 2040 and an 85% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 as mandated by the Climate Act. In November, NYPA hosted 12 public hearings to gather public comment on its draft Strategic Plan to build more renewables. Visit NYPA.gov/Renewables to learn more about the plan. 

About NYPA

NYPA is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information visit www.nypa.gov and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr and LinkedIn.