Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that 2,439 solar projects have been installed or are in development in communities throughout New York. These projects are part of locally-organized campaigns supported through the NY-Sun Solarize Initiative. Solarize is a vital component of Governor Cuomo's Clean Energy Standard, which requires that half of New York's electricity come from renewable sources by 2030. 

"New York leads the nation in advancing aggressive clean energy policies and by supporting local projects across the state, our communities are realizing the benefits," Governor Cuomo said. "Solarize campaigns are bringing renewable energy to residents and businesses at an affordable price while providing resiliency to the electric grid to ensure a cleaner, greener New York for all." 

"Solar energy is thriving across New York, with increased numbers of installations at homes and businesses in every corner of our state," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "Thanks to increased awareness and support for alternative energy in New York, we are growing this important sector of our energy economy. These innovative projects are helping to move New York's ambitious energy goals forward, cut carbon emissions, and provide New Yorkers with a greener environment and a healthier future." 

Launched by the Governor in 2014 and administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, the NY-Sun initiative has supported 81 Solarize campaigns through the first three rounds of funding, which include the 2,439 local projects statewide. In this latest round and for the first time, community solar was included as a component eligible for support, which resulted in 175 residents and small businesses in the Southern Tier and Mid-Hudson Valley regions signing up. 

NYSERDA has provided nearly $830,000 in technical and marketing support through the first three rounds of Solarize. Projects in all rounds (including community solar subscriptions) total 19.47 megawatts of installed solar - the equivalent of powering 3,241 homes per year. 

In total, campaigns have saved participants approximately $3.6 million in upfront purchase costs, for an average savings of $1,476 per installation.

NYSERDA | www.nyserda.ny.gov