BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Siemens representatives updated the Binghamton City Council on amendments to a master energy performance contracting agreement that would expand LED and weatherization work across city buildings, reconfigure planned heat-pump and generator work, and alter the planned network of electric vehicle (EV) chargers.

Siemens Smart Infrastructure project lead Chris Catt said the company “made some changes, at request of council to ensure this project delivers on what’s best for the citizens of the city of Binghamton.” The amendments presented remove bipolar ionization at City Hall and remove emergency generator heat-pump work at the plant, and add a Level 3 fast charger at the Water Street garage, while reducing some Level 2 chargers.

The changes aim to prioritize a faster, more equitable rollout of EV infrastructure while completing building energy-efficiency upgrades. Siemens engineer Raj Selvaraj told the council the revised scope includes 37 Level 2 chargers “distributed across the city and 2 Level 3 chargers at the Water Street Garage.” The proposal also would finish LED conversions across the municipal building portfolio and add duct sealing, programmable thermostats, weatherization, and some solar film for high-heat windows.

Siemens said its financial estimate had shifted with recent interest-rate movement and tariffs. Catt reported the revised cash-flow shows the project “$140,000 to the positive,” but said that cash-flow figures are illustrative and will be updated and circulated to the council; Siemens has also modeled EV revenue but said the cash flow remains positive even without that revenue.

Council members pressed specifics about selected charger sites, including why First Ward Park was chosen for four chargers and whether Webster Street service is new or existing. A council member noted concern that First Ward Park may not generate frequent use compared with other park locations; Siemens and councilors said charger siting sought equitable geographic distribution and that locations can be adjusted if the council requests it.

Council members and Siemens discussed grant and incentive opportunities; Siemens emphasized the presentation data will support future state and other funding applications. Siemens also noted possible future items for council consideration, including on-site energy storage and expanded solar PV paired with battery storage.

The council did not take a final vote on the amended contract during the meeting; members asked that Siemens provide the updated financial package ahead of the next meeting so the council can consider authorization before further cost increases from tariffs or market changes.