Date: May 2026
In early 2026, the Mid-Hudson Regional Clean Energy Hub and Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Smart Energy Choices partnered with Sullivan Allies Leading Together (SALT) to launch the Healthful Cooking Pilot Project, an initiative designed to improve access to safer, healthier, and more efficient cooking options for Sullivan County residents.
The project's goal is ambitious: distribute 500 portable induction cooktops, along with compatible cookware and utensils, to individuals and families throughout the county. Thanks to SALT's extensive outreach and its Sullivan Fresh Community Cupboard mobile food pantry, to date, nearly 350 induction cooktops have been distributed to local households.
Through the Sullivan Fresh Community Cupboard, SALT reaches approximately 700 households each week, providing an ideal opportunity to connect residents with resources that can improve both health and household energy use.
Why Induction Cooking?
Many households in Sullivan County rely on propane, hot plates, microwaves, or older cooking appliances to prepare meals. The Healthful Cooking Pilot Project introduces residents to induction cooking technology as a cleaner, safer alternative.
Unlike traditional gas stoves, induction cooktops use electricity to generate an electromagnetic current that directly heats compatible cookware. Because the cookware itself becomes the heat source, induction cooking is highly efficient and allows for faster, more precise temperature control.
Gas appliances, which burn natural gas, propane, or butane, can release pollutants into the home, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and other combustion byproducts. These pollutants contribute to poor indoor air quality and can increase respiratory health risks, particularly for children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Building Awareness of Clean Energy Solutions
For many participants, the cooktop they receive through the program is their first experience with induction technology. The pilot project provides an opportunity for residents to see firsthand how clean energy solutions can improve comfort, convenience, and health in everyday life.
As the Mid-Hudson Regional Clean Energy Hub continues to support communities throughout the region, partnerships like this one demonstrate how practical, accessible technologies can help households save money, improve indoor air quality, and participate in New York's clean energy transition.
Here’s what participants are saying:
“I was so afraid that there may be an accident with my gas stove. Now I use this induction cooktop all of the time and it feels much safer” - Sullivan County Resident
“This cooktop is a savior because my stove is broken!” - Sullivan County Resident
“I had been cooking with just a microwave and have much better cooking options now with the induction cooktop!” - Sullivan County Resident
“I’m really happy with it. It is really easy to use.” - Sullivan County Resident
With over half of the project's cooktops already distributed, the Healthful Cooking Pilot Project is helping hundreds of Sullivan County families experience the benefits of clean cooking, one meal at a time.
Visit the link below to learn more about the project:
https://www.saltcares.com/healthful-cooking-pilot-project-2026