Round 2 encourages community projects that make solar accessible for low- and moderate-income consumers
WASHINGTON, D.C. – September 18, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) announced today the second round of support for Solarize campaigns is now open. Under Andrew M. Cuomo’s NY-Sun Community Solar NY program, Solarize campaigns make solar easier and more affordable through community-driven initiatives and are an essential component of Reforming the Energy Vision (REV).
Community Solar NY provides support for community education and marketing of group solar purchasing projects. In this round, NYSERDA is encouraging projects that make solar more accessible for low- and moderate-income participants, and provides opportunities for renters, homeowners, low-income residents, schools and businesses to join together to set up shared renewable energy projects resulting in healthier and stronger communities.
Local governments, school districts and other community partners are eligible to participate in Community Solar NY. Applications for this round will be accepted through November 16, 2015.
“Community Solar NY is building awareness of the benefits of clean, renewable solar power, simplifying the process of choosing a solar installer and driving down costs,” said John B. Rhodes, President and CEO, NYSERDA. “It aligns with Governor Cuomo’s REV strategy by helping to increase renewable energy in the state and reducing energy costs.”
Solarize campaigns bring together groups of potential solar customers through widespread outreach and education, and help customers choose solar companies that offer competitive, transparent pricing. The campaigns generally run for between six and nine months, including planning and outreach. By educating the local community, streamlining marketing efforts and aggregating customers, Solarize campaigns help make solar a more accessible and affordable energy option.
In 2015, communities across New York State launched more than 30 Solarize campaigns with support from NYSERDA. These local campaigns have drawn thousands of New Yorkers to attend solar workshops and community events, resulting in hundreds of households and businesses going solar.
For information on how to enroll in the second round, visit Solarize your community. A Community Solar NY Solarize Round 2 webinar will take place on September 22 at 12 noon. Please register here. The webinar will be recorded and posted on the NY-Sun web site.
NY-Sun is Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s $1 billion initiative to advance the scale-up of solar and move New York State closer to having a sustainable, self-sufficient solar industry. The growth of solar in the State has increased more than 300 percent from 2011 to 2014, twice the rate of U.S. solar growth overall.
About Reforming the Energy Vision
Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) is New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s strategy to build a clean, resilient and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers. REV is transforming New York’s energy policy with new state-wide initiatives and regulatory reforms. REV will grow the state’s clean energy economy, support innovation, ensure grid resilience, mobilize private capital, create new jobs, and increase choice and affordability for energy consumers. REV places clean, locally produced power at the very core of New York’s energy system. This protects the environment and supports the State’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% while generating 50% of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2030. Successful initiatives already launched as part of REV include NY-Sun, NY Green Bank, NY Prize, K-Solar, and a commitment to improve energy affordability for low-income communities. To learn more about REV, visit www.ny.gov/REV4NY and follow us @REV4NY.
About NYSERDA
NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and funding to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. NYSERDA professionals work to protect the environment and create clean-energy jobs. NYSERDA has been developing partnerships to advance innovative energy solutions in New York State since 1975. To learn more about NYSERDA’s programs and funding opportunities, visit nyserda.ny.gov or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, or Instagram.
Contact(s)
Dayle Zatlin, Assistant Director of Communications
Phone : 518-862-1090, Ext. 3359
Email : dayle.zatlin (at) nyserda.ny (dot) gov
