Gov. David A. Paterson, D-N.Y., has announced that $15 million in federal stimulus funding has been allocated to the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) for residential and large-scale solar energy projects. The funding will assist LIPA in satisfying the significant demand it has experienced in its solar programs.
Awarded through the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), $8.3 million in funding will support LIPA's Solar Pioneer program, which offers rebates to homeowners who install new residential grid-connected solar electric systems. In addition, $6.7 million in funding will allow LIPA to connect to the electric grid solar panels installed on carports at railroad station parking lots and other facilities owned by Suffolk County. These panels are expected to deliver up to 17 MW of electricity.
Last month, due to increased demand which outpaced LIPA's budget, LIPA was forced to suspend the popular Solar Pioneer program. At the request of LIPA, several solar installers and elected officials worked with NYSERDA and LIPA to petition the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to approve an amendment to the state's spending plan for clean energy stimulus funds. The amendment allows $8.3 million to support residential solar and $6.7 million will continue supporting large-scale systems
The DOE has now approved the amendment, allowing LIPA to re-open the Solar Pioneer program on Dec. 1.
SOURCE: Long Island Power Authority
