More than a dozen Brooklyn elected officials are urging New York State to support the bold new goal of powering one million New York households, including 100,000 low-income households, with solar by 2023. The effort is being organized by the Million Solar Strong Campaign, a movement of leading industry, environmental, clean energy and community organizations. The group, which held a Brooklyn Solar Town Hall earlier this week, is gaining momentum with a growing number of prominent state and local leaders endorsing the call for more New York solar. 

The elected officials quotes are listed alphabetically first by members, and members-elect, of the State Senate and then members, and members-elect, of the State Assembly. 

"I am excited to bring this Solar Strong Town Hall to my district and the larger Brooklyn community. The ability for us to reduce our carbon footprint and reliance on outdated energy sources, while creating good paying jobs and spurring the green collar economy is a win-win for our communities," said State Senator Kevin Parker. 

"One million solar-powered homes in New York - 100,000 of which are low-income - in the next five years is an incredible and worthwhile feat to accomplish. I support local efforts in building our solar strong state, all the while creating more jobs and a cleaner future," said State Senator Roxanne Persaud. 

"As New Yorkers, the devastation of Hurricane Sandy showed us that climate change is not a distant concern. We cannot afford to wait another day; we must take decisive action by supporting the Million Solar Strong Campaign in urging Governor Cuomo to invest in our future. I fully support the ambitious and necessary goal of powering one million New York households with solar energy by 2023," said State Senator-elect Julia Salazar.

"I would like to applaud all of the member organizations and elected officials for their drive in bringing more attention to the need for a cleaner environment through the Million Solar Strong Campaign. Having one million households receive solar panels that will create jobs in the community, reduce utility costs for homeowners, and cut harmful pollution just makes sense.  The inclusiveness of powering 100,000 low income homes by solar is certainly a step in the right direction and a win for us all. I would like to give special recognition to my colleague Senator Kevin Parker, the ranking member of the Energy and Telecommunications committee, for his leadership," said Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte.

"As the main sponsor in the Assembly of both the solar electric generating system and electric energy storage equipment property tax abatements, which passed both houses of the Legislature last year, I know that investing in solar is a major component to New York meeting its renewable energy goals. I am proud to support the Million Solar Strong Campaign, which sets an ambitious goal of powering one million New York households - including 100,000 low-income households - with solar by 2023," said Assemblymember Robert Carroll.

"Solar energy saves money and has the potential to help keep more low-income New Yorkers in their homes. It is important to support an initiative that not only has environmental benefits but will move forward our mission to preserve affordable housing and keep our communities stable," said Assemblymember Steven Cymbrowitz, Chair of the Assembly Housing Committee. 

"The Million Solar Strong Campaign sets the bar on the essential need for solar power amongst New York Households - leading New York into a clean energy future that is sustainable for the environment and affordable for many low income families, homeowners and renters. I support solar power as it aims to better our community," said Assemblymember Maritza Davila.

"Brooklyn families and businesses are ready to take part in our nation's growing clean energy economy. We're calling for Governor Cuomo and New York's commitment to one million solar homes to create good jobs, local investments, and healthier communities right here in our city. We want everyone in Brooklyn to benefit from a thriving solar industry," said Assemblymember-elect Mathylde Frontus.

"New York is now ready to "boldly go" where it's not ever gone before.  We have the clear vision that defines our need for clean energy, now we must set the goal on attaining it.  I look forward to creating bold objectives, particularly for stimulating urban solar projects as we move into the next legislative term," said Assemblymember Joseph Lentol.

"Building a better tomorrow takes more than just words, it takes action. New York has always been a leader and now it's time for us to once again be on the forefront of the renewable energy initiative. Increasing our energy from solar power is one of the ways we can lead the fight against climate change. I am proud to join The Million Solar Strong Campaign and embrace a bold vision for New York with one million homes powered by solar by 2023, including 100,000 low-income households. Expanding solar energy will create jobs, save New Yorkers on utility bills, cut harmful air pollution, and accelerate an equitable transition to our clean energy future.  It's time to dispel the myth that what is good for our planet is not good for our economy. Let's lead the charge of clean energy innovation while building a cleaner and stronger New York," said Assemblymember Walter Mosley.  

"New York should help lead the nation in solar power. As we strive to end our reliance on fossil fuels and work to improve Planet Earth and the environment, use of solar power and other methods will help us in so many ways. Let's do our part and pitch in. Powering one million New York households - including 100,000 low-income households - with solar by 2023 will make a major difference," said Assistant Assembly Speaker Felix W. Ortiz. 

"New York needs to stand-up to the Trump Administration's anti-climate and anti-clean energy attacks. Setting the bold goal of powering 1 million households with solar energy is exactly what we need. Expanding solar will create jobs, reduce and stabilize energy bills, clean-up air pollution and send the strong message that New York cares about climate and clean energy," said Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon.

"The Solar Strong program is an important component in the journey to the state's Clean Energy Standard. As the chair of the Subcommittee on Renewable Energy, I'm constantly advocating for the retrofit of solar panels for all communities. It just makes sense. The installation of solar panels lowers resident's energy bills and simultaneously reduces their carbon footprint," said Assemblymember Latrice Walker.

"I am happy to stand with the Million Solar Strong campaign as we strive to make clean energy accessible to more New Yorkers. New York must lead as an innovator and economic driver with investments in clean energy and the green economy. I look forward to working with my colleagues in government, business and community to grow this industry, " said Assemblymember Tremaine Wright.

Million Solar Strong Coalition | www.solarstrongny.org