Retool’24 highlights clean energy in the manufacturing sector

CELORON, NY — Retool’24 is part of a broader Western New York initiative to promote economic development through clean energy opportunities.

The conference and vendor presentation are made possible in part by a three-year grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, or NYSERTA.

“We’re making connections. Western New York, the Southern Tier and all of New York State have a role to play in this,” said Ellen Ditonto, business development coordinator at the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities.

The event includes companies like Nextcorps in Rochester, operators of Upstate New York’s statewide climate technology program.

Leaders are working with inventors to create the next generation of products that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the state.

“So it’s about economic development here in the region and throughout New York state. It brings new, clean products to help all of us live better lives,” said Mike Riedlinger, chief marketing officer at Nextcorps.

The event included other success stories from manufacturers like Viridi in Buffalo and panel discussions on supply chain opportunities.

Efforts consistent with the state’s recently passed Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which requires New York State to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 85 percent from 1990 levels. by 2050, placing the state at the forefront of clean energy initiatives.

“Whether it’s a new industry that’s coming in or a company that needs to look at transforming their production line so they can make parts for a clean energy company,” Ditonto said.