New York is leading the nation in the fight on global climate change and the transition to a clean energy-powered economy. The Climate Act (https://climate.ny.gov/) has created the most aggressive climate change goals in the nation and requires an ambitious agenda that blends proven catalysts with innovative approaches while operating across a broader energy arena that is rapidly evolving. New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) is a driving force in realizing this agenda. NYSERDA works with stakeholders that span residents, business owners, developers, community leaders, local government officials, universities, utilities, investors, entrepreneurs, and more, to develop, invest, and foster conditions that:

　　Attract the private sector capital investment needed to expand New York’s clean energy economy.

　　Overcome barriers to using clean energy at a large-scale in New York.

　　Enable New York’s communities and residents to benefit equitably from energy efficiency and renewable energy.

　　The Distributed Energy Resources team is comprised of New York State’s solar energy ( NY-Sun (http://www.ny-sun.ny.gov/) ) and initiatives. In 2024 , the DER team will continue to implement these initiatives with a focus on increasin g equitable access to solar and energy storage . This work will expand activities and investments focused on low-to-moderate income (LMI) customers, affordable housing, and environmental justice, disadvantaged , and underserved communities , in line with the Climate Act ’s mandate to deliver 40% of program benefits to disadvantaged communities .

　　INTERNSHIP OVERVIEW

　　This is a paid internship for students at an accredited college. The pay rate is from $15 to $18 per hour based on current class year. This internship will begin in the Spring 2024 semester with the option of continuing through the summer to August 2024.

　　Interns must be located in New York State while working. It is expected that interns will follow our telework policy, with a combination of in-office and remote work. Interns work up to 18.5 hours per week during the semester, and up to 37.5 hours per week between semesters, when not attending classes.

　　PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

　　The intern will support the DER team with projects that combine project management assistance , stakeholder interaction, and research and analysis. The intern will assist program staff with continued implementation of the state’s commercial and residential solar and/or energy storage programs, including new programs outlined in the Solar Energy Equity Framework section of the NY- Sun July 202 0- 2030 Operating Plan (https://documents.dps.ny.gov/public/Common/ViewDoc.aspx?DocRefId=%7b6094AD89-0000-C134-AEF9-4685F6C3B7F2%7d) .

　　The intern will gain firsthand experience and exposure to New York’s clean energy industry, including participation in calls, meetings, workshops, and industry events. The final work product will be a written product (report, memo, or case study) that delves into one component of the NY-Sun program and provides recommendations. This will be accompanied by a final PowerPoint presentation that summarizes the intern’s project and findings. A detailed scope of the intern’s projects will be developed by the intern and project staff in the first 2-4 weeks of the internship and may shift based on program needs. The intern will also perform other responsibilities as assigned by the DER team and other NYSERDA staff.

　　Depending on the intern’s skill set and the program needs, responsibilities may include :

　　Comparative analysis of other state and federal programs .

　　Communicating with community partners, environmental justice organizations, owners of affordable housing, solar/energy storage project developers and customers.

　　Helping program staff address requests for support and information.

　　Developing materials to educate stakeholders about state policy and NY-Sun programs .

　　Collecting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data about solar project economics .

　　Minimum Qualifications

　　Current student at an accredited college.

　　Excellent skills with the Microsoft Office suite of programs .

　　Excellent written and oral communications skills .

　　Demonstrated ability and experience in communicating ideas and concepts to a wide range of stakeholders .

　　Genuine passion for addressing issues related to climate change, energy equity, affordable housing, and environmental justice. Comfort reading policy documentation on these topics is a plus.

　　Comfort reviewing and analyzing data to glean customer insights using data analysis tools.

　　Demonstrated ability to research primary and secondary sources .

　　Attention to detail, exceptional time management skills, excellent critical thinking skills, and experience effectively maneuvering shifting priorities and deadlines .

　　Skill in managing multiple activities, delivering on commitments, and operating with speed, accuracy, and strong judgment .

　　Self-motivation and strong work ethic .

　　Please submit two files, one for your cover letter and another for a resume. #LI-DNP