NY FUNDS NET METERING FOR NEW ENERGY

Bill would encourage solar, wind power
Dan Heath, February 26, 2010 (Plattsburgh Press Republican)

"A measure to promote expanded use of solar- and wind-powered electricity-generation systems has been approved by both legislative chambers in Albany…[The bill] changes the current net-metering law to remove restrictions that prevented many non-residential customers from taking part.

"Net metering allows those producing and using renewable energy to send excess electricity to their power company for a credit…The bill will be forwarded to Gov. David Paterson’s office for final approval."

Make that 44 states. (click to enlarge)

"The law was amended in 2008 to allow non-residential customers to take part. But the amendment contained peak-load limitations that prevented the larger systems needed by many businesses, schools, municipalities and nonprofit organizations from being eligible. Systems of up to 2,000 kilowatts are now allowed.

"The New York Solar Energy Industries Association issued a statement in support of the legislative action…The change is expected to spur greater investment in solar electrical systems and create more jobs in green technology fields, such as solar and wind power…[because it] allows customers willing to invest in on-site systems as a hedge against future energy prices an opportunity to do so…[and moves the state] toward meeting [its] goals of 2,000 megawatts by 2020 and 5,000 megawatts by 2025…"