Empire Clean Cities
Our Story
Empire Clean Cities (ECC) operates as an essential technical and social intermediary within the nation’s most dense transportation market. Designated by the U.S. Department of Energy in 2003, this standalone 501(c)(3) nonprofit serves New York City and the Lower Hudson Valley. Under the leadership of Executive Director Joy Gardner—a 2024 Clean Cities Hall of Fame inductee—the coalition translates high-level state environmental mandates into functional infrastructure and fleet deployments. ECC views the energy transition as both a technical hurdle and a matter of public health, prioritizing initiatives that mitigate air pollution in historically marginalized urban corridors while scaling charging networks to meet the demands of a $24$-hour city.
Core Capabilities
Like all Clean Transportation Network members, Central Texas Clean Cities offers a core set of capabilities to stakeholders.
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High-level proficiency in conducting fleet data analysis (AFLEET) and creating long-term transition roadmaps.
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Experts in organizing "Ride & Drives," webinars, and community listening sessions that demystify new technology for the public.
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Experienced in serving as a Principal Investigator and subrecipient on federal and state grants.
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Providing deep-dive support for charging/fueling infrastructure and first responder safety training.
Coalition Impacts in 2024
Energy Impact
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Over 11.6 million Gasoline Gallon Equivalents (GGE) displaced annually.
Greenhouse Gas Reductions
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Prevented more than 70,000 tons of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG).
Stakeholder Network
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Management of over 200 active partners across the public and private sectors.
Regional Focus
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Specialization in high-density urban logistics and equitable micromobility.
Major Projects & Accomplishments
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The Atlas Project
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The Echo Project
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The Brightline Project
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The Northgrid Project
Urban Density Subject Matter Expertise
Navigating the extreme spatial and utility constraints of New York City requires more than standard engineering. ECC provides the technical scaffolding for curbside charging and heavy-duty electrification in an environment defined by congestion and limited real estate.
Equitable E-Mobility Integration
Through The E-Mobility Project (TEMP), the coalition addresses "mobility deserts" by integrating e-bikes, pedicabs, and micro-transit into the regional transportation fabric. This focus ensures that decarbonization reaches beyond vehicle-owning populations to benefit all commuters.
Workplace Charging Mastery
ECC participates in the EMPOWER and Charge@Work initiatives, bridging the gap between commercial real estate and fleet electrification. By coordinating with major regional utilities, the coalition streamlines the deployment of workplace EVSE, which is critical for urban adoption.
Coalition Governance and Leadership
Directed by a nationally recognized Hall of Fame leader, ECC offers a proven framework for managing complex federal and state funding. The organization functions as a neutral, trusted convener that aligns the goals of OEMs, government agencies, and private fleets.