Sprocket Power, a leading provider of clean energy solutions, has made significant strides in advancing sustainable practices within the automotive industry. The company recently installed state-of-the-art microgrids at three Westchester County, NY auto dealerships: Vail GMC Hummer, Croton Auto Park, and Yonkers Honda. These innovative systems represent a major leap forward in energy efficiency and resilience, marking a turning point for both the New York State energy grid and the future of auto dealership operations.
The microgrids are equipped with solar power, battery storage, building and EV charging station control, and comprehensive facility management, creating a self-sufficient energy ecosystem. By harnessing the power of the sun and storing it for later use, these dealerships have achieved a remarkable feat, demonstrating a model that offers substantial savings, enhanced energy independence, and a significantly reduced carbon footprint.
Mark Schienberg, President of the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA), commended these dealerships for their commitment to sustainability. “Dealerships have been at the forefront of transportation electrification and finding innovative ways to incorporate technology to reduce strain on the power grid,” he stated. “These three business owners are leading the way with these forward-thinking installations, showcasing how sustainable practices can benefit both business strength and the New York energy system.”
This initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Sprocket Power and Con Edison. “As more of our customers adopt electric vehicles, we are looking for innovative ways to meet the growing demand for charging infrastructure,” said Britt Reichborn-Kjennerud, Director of E-mobility at Con Edison. “This project demonstrates a model for achieving cost-efficient and widespread charging solutions while advancing New York State’s clean transportation goals.”
The benefits of these installations extend beyond immediate cost savings. The microgrids significantly enhance energy resilience, guaranteeing that the dealerships can maintain operations even during power outages. This reliability is crucial for maintaining customer service and operational efficiency in an industry where uptime is essential.
The environmental impact of these projects cannot be overstated. By reducing their reliance on non-renewable energy sources, Vail GMC Hummer, Croton Auto Park, and Yonkers Honda are significantly cutting their carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future for all. Each project involved the active collaboration of local sustainability groups. The project at Vail GMC Hummer also involved students at SUNY Purchase, who designed an interactive display to educate visitors on the system’s real-time operations and its impact on business, community, and climate.
For Sprocket Power, this initiative is a testament to their commitment to developing solutions with systemic benefits for New York State. As Maria Fields, Sprocket Power CEO and cofounder, stated, “We are addressing concerns over the ability of the electric grid to support the needs of Electric Vehicle charging. It is exciting to demonstrate the benefits of a system that not only alleviates those strains but also supports the local grid. These projects wouldn’t have happened without the leadership of each of our partners – it will pave the way for others.”
This innovative approach to energy efficiency and sustainability is poised to transform the automotive industry, setting a precedent for others to follow. The microgrids installed by Sprocket Power are not just a technical marvel; they are a testament to the power of collaboration and a vision for a cleaner, more resilient future.
