$54 million to fund large solar power projects across the state, New York

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$54 million to fund large solar power projects across the state
ALBANY - $54 million has been awarded under the NY-Sun initiative for 79 large-scale solar energy projects across the state. The new projects will add 64 megawatts to the state’s solar capacity. “With these major investments through the NY-Sun initiative, New York State is leading the nation in solar energy generation, addressing climate change and growing our clean energy economy,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said. “Not only will these projects benefit our environment by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and using renewable energy, but they are also creating well-paying jobs for New Yorkers. These are necessary investments for a bright future in our state.” The announcement on Tuesday includes awards made to 20 recipients to finance projects at 79 large-scale solar energy sites in 26 counties across the state. Installations will be located at businesses, factories, municipal buildings, colleges and other larger commercial and industrial companies and institutions. Some projects taking full advantage of this construction season may be on line by the end of this year, but most are expected to be completed in the first half of next year. As a result of the NY-Sun initiative, more photovoltaic (PV) systems are now being deployed in the state than in the prior decade. The $54 million from the State, awarded through a competitive program, leverages $120 million in private investment, resulting in roughly $174 million in infrastructure projects. The NY-Sun Competitive PV Program, which provides incentives for PV systems larger than 50 kilowatts, is administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Funding per project is capped at $3 million, and all projects require co-funding to leverage state resources. Today’s awards are made under the second of three rounds of the NY-Sun Competitive PV solicitation, which is a key component of New York’s Renewable Portfolio Standard program. Proposals for the third round are due August 29. Potential locations of solar energy sites, pending approval of permitting and other requirements, by region include: Capital Region: 10 sites, including Raymour & Flanigan stores in Clifton Park, Saratoga County, and Niskayuna, Schenectady County; Central New York: six sites, including one at SUNY Cortland in Cortland County; Finger Lakes: 11 sites, including one at Rochester Institute of Technology and one at Wegmans Food Markets corporate headquarters, both in Rochester, Monroe County ; Mid-Hudson: 23 sites, including Raymour & Flanigan stores in Suffern, Rockland County, and Middletown, Orange County; New York City: 15 sites, including Related Companies’ Bronx Terminal Market and HUB Retail and Office Center in the Bronx, College Point in Queens and Gateway Center in Brooklyn; and a Sunlight Clinton Realty LLC/Sunshine Lighting project in Brooklyn; North Country: two sites, including one at Clarkson University in Potsdam, Saint Lawrence County; Southern Tier: three sites, including one at Cornell University in Ithaca, Tompkins County; and Western New York: nine sites, including one at Cummins Inc.’s Jamestown Engine Plant in Chautauqua County.