Tools

New State Law Aims for Surge in Solar Power Use

Story Published: Aug 19, 2012 at 8:06 PM EDT

Story Updated: Aug 19, 2012 at 8:06 PM EDT

Governor Andrew Cuomo hopes homes and businesses across the state will benefit from a newly signed law designed to make solar power more affordable.

The law gives tax breaks to individuals who buy or lease solar equipment.

It's meant to help the state achieve the New York Sun Initiative, which calls for twice the amount of solar installation in 2012 than happened in 2011.

Jeff Smith, a Watertown City Council Member whose QuikMed Urgent Care business on Washington Street uses solar energy, says this law should help consumers afford the initial cost of installation and enjoy the long term benefits. 

"Last month, with two main tenants occupying our building at Quikmed Urgent Care - Quickmed on one floor, allergists on the second floor - we didn't have an electric bill last month," Smith explained.

"And that's with a hot summer, with air conditioning going, so that's a substantial savings," he added.

Consumers can begin harvesting the power of the sun for cheap now, as the law goes into effect immediately.
 
Sunday, May 26, 2013
, Watertown, NY

On Demand

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

What's On TonightFull Schedule

On Wall Street