How are we achieving this? Because we are not alone. New York State actively supports the advancement of GHP, with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offering a range of programs and incentives that support projects from the smallest homes to the largest commercial buildings. 

In addition, New York’s utilities provide customer incentives and rebates, and are piloting innovative UTEN projects across the state. Our success comes from persistent advocacy and close collaboration with NYSERDA, utilities, the Public Service Commission, and state agencies like the DEC and DPS to make GHP the premier solution for heating and cooling in New York.

NY-GEO’s advocacy has driven key legislative wins, including the creation of the Geothermal Tax Credit—currently under review for an increase from $5,000 to $10,000—and the “500' rule,” which expands GHP access in urban areas. We continue to push for policies that support New York’s climate goals, including Cap and Invest to hold major emitters accountable, and the NY-HEAT Act to improve energy affordability by ending outdated rules like the 100-foot gas line extension and the obligation to serve gas.

“NY-GEO is the leader in promoting the widespread adoption of geothermal heating and cooling in New York State,” said Bill Nowak, NY-GEO Board member. “We’re proud of how far we’ve come, but there’s still much work ahead to ensure that all New Yorkers can access this clean, efficient, and cost-effective technology.”

A skilled workforce is essential to the growth of the GHP industry—and a key priority for NY-GEO. But there's a challenge: we need more projects to attract workers, and we need skilled workers to complete those projects. NY-GEO is actively partnering with organizations like IGSHPA and the Geothermal Drillers Association to break this cycle and build a strong, motivated workforce.

Our annual conference plays a major role in this effort, drawing over 1,500 attendees in 2024–2025. With educational tracks curated by NY-GEO Board Member and Conference Co-Chair John Ciovacco, the event delivers valuable insights and expertise from across the industry.

NY-GEO’s first Downstate Conference, held in Brooklyn in 2024, spotlighted the unique geothermal needs of dense urban areas like NYC. Highlights included site tours of major GHP projects—from 1 Java and a large NYCHA retrofit in the Bronx to Energy Piles at 555 Greenwich and the geothermal system at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. With Sinatra’s "New York, New York" echoing in my head, we delivered. Mark your calendar for an even better Downstate Conference, March 23–26, 2026!

In honor of Earth Day, the 2025 NY-GEO Conference will debut a new Field Day and Drilling Demo, featuring hands-on experiences with borehole drilling, piping, grouting, Drift Monitoring, Thermal Conductivity Testing, Mud School, Drones and Drilling, and more. Pre-conference geothermal site visits will also be offered.

Why Membership Matters

Being a NY-GEO member means more than just a conference discount—it’s a statement of your commitment to job growth, decarbonization, and electrification in New York. Your support helps solidify GHP as the smart alternative to fossil fuels.

The more members we have, the stronger our voice. A larger membership base gives weight to our advocacy—whether we’re backing legislation, submitting comments, or joining rate cases.

We encourage all industry professionals and supporters to join NY-GEO and be part of this powerful movement. Together, we can accelerate the shift to clean, renewable heating and cooling across the state.

As the geothermal industry grows, NY-GEO leads the way—driving progress one borehole at a time. Don’t miss NY-GEO 2025, a must-attend event to connect, learn, and help shape the future. We’re stronger together. LET’S GO GEO!

Click here to join NY-GEO.

Editor's note: Christine joined NY-GEO in July of 2022.  Previously, Christine was the Chief Operating Officer for the New York State Tourism Industry Association and an Association Manager with the Association Development Group. She is very active in supporting and growing NY-GEO's membership. Christine leverages her experience in event planning to enhance the success of the NY-GEO annual conferences.  On a national level she plays a key role with the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA) Advocacy and Communication Task Force (ACT), bringing much-needed attention to the advances in the geothermal heat pump industry.