Gov. Cuomo announces more than 2,400 solar projects completed through NY-Sun Solarize Initiative

New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced Wednesday that 2,439 solar projects have been installed or are under development as part of locally-organized campaigns supported by the NY-Sun Solarize Initiative.

The initiative, which launched in 2014, has supported 81 Solarize campaigns through its first three rounds of funding. In the most recent series, community solar projects were eligible for the first time. 175 residents and small businesses in the Southern Tier and Mid-Hudson Valley regions signed up for the program.

“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,” 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.”

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) provided $830,000 in technical and marketing support through the first three rounds of the initiative. The completed projects from all rounds equal a total of 19.47 megawatts of installed solar.

“Solar energy is thriving across New York, with increased numbers of installations at homes and businesses in every corner of our state,” Lieutenant Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “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.”

The fourth round of campaigns is now launching throughout the state.