Pittsburgh-based Optimus Technologies, a manufacturer of biodiesel fuel systems, has been named the $1 million grand prize winner of the 76West Clean Energy Competition in New York.
Optimus designs and manufactures biodiesel fuel systems for medium- and heavy-duty diesel trucks to operate on up to 100% biodiesel, thereby reducing fuel costs and greenhouse-gas emissions. With this new recognition, Optimus will expand its operations to New York State’s Southern Tier.
The 76West Clean Energy Competition supports growing clean energy businesses to foster economic development. There was also a $500,000 award winner and four $250,000 award winners for other clean energy technologies, such as energy efficiency.
“We cannot successfully combat climate change without innovative technologies such as those being developed by 76West winners,” says Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, D-N.Y. “Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and increasing energy efficiency in our buildings are critical strategies in this fight. I congratulate Optimus Technologies and all of the 76West winners for their commitment to a cleaner future and new economic opportunity.”
In this year’s 76West competition, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authroity received 169 applications representing 14 countries and 21 states. Of these, 18 semifinalists were chosen and participated in a two-day pitch session this summer at Binghamton University. As a condition of the award, companies must either move to the Southern Tier or establish a direct connection with the Southern Tier economy, such as a supply chain partnership, job development with Southern Tier companies, or other strategic relationships with Southern Tier entities that help spur economic development and create jobs.
