(Queens, NY) — During a recent session called to consider a variety of environmental bills in recognition of “Earth Day,” State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens) noted that legislation (S.2522) passed by the State Senate, which he co-sponsors, would significantly expand the development and use of solar power in New York.
“In recent years, New York has begun to make strides in encouraging greater use of clean, alternative sources of energy, including solar power,” said Addabbo. “There is no question that we must reduce our
dependence on foreign all, work harder to protect our environment from pollution and move forward with creating good jobs in the new ‘green’ economy. This forward-thinking proposal addresses all of these vital goals.”
The legislation approved by the State Senate would expand the NY Sun program initiated by Governor Cuomo for 10 years through 2023 – demonstrating to businesses involved in solar power that New York is
committed to making greater use of this clean energy. The measure would also establish a new tax credit program to attract new large-scale solar and photovoltaic battery manufacturing plants to the
state.
“This plan would most definitely assist in revitalizing our economy, provide new jobs, seek to invest in clean and economical energy, and reduce our reliance on power plants that can release poisonous
emissions and substances into our air, land and water,” said Addabbo. “We need to continue to do more research and development in the area of solar energy to make sure that it becomes more accessible,
affordable and on the radar screen for all New Yorkers who want to use the rays of the sun to help power their homes and businesses.”
Addabbo noted that a greater use of solar energy could be particularly important during especially hot weather when tremendous demand is placed on traditional power plants. “By harnessing and storing the
power of the sun, we could help avoid blackouts, brownouts and other negative consequences at peak electrical demand times,” he said. “This bill will advance the goal of solar energy storage and help
attract businesses that develop, manufacture and install the tools we need to take full advantage of this limitless natural power resource.”
Addabbo noted that solar energy storage generally refers to the process whereby sunlight, often through installed solar panels, is converted through photovoltaic batteries into standard electrical
current and then used as a power source.
“Now that this solar incentive bill has been approved by the State Senate, I am hopeful the State Assembly will soon pass this bill in their chamber,” said Addabbo. “New York needs to continue coming out
of the darkness and into the light by fully embracing the promise of solar power and recognizing its significant economic and environmental benefits.”
