New York ranks 7th so far this year in solar added

Media Contacts
Heather Leibowitz

New York, NY– A new analysis released today by SEIA/GTM Research shows New York ranks 7th for solar installations in the first quarter of 2017. Nationally, solar accounted for 30 percent of new energy capacity in that time.

The report comes as New York Governor Andrew Cuomo unveiled a $1.65 billion investment in renewable energy, following the U.S. decision to withdraw from the Paris Accord. 

New York’s 7th place first quarter ranking puts the state ahead its 12th place ranking for annual solar installations in 2016.

Today, the U.S. has nearly 15 times more solar energy capacity installed than in 2010, with enough solar to power the equivalent of over 8.7 million homes and reduce 55 million metric tons of carbon emissions annually.

The data comes from the quarterly U.S. Solar Market Insight Report by SEIA/GTM Research.

Heather Leibowitz, Director of Environment New York, released the following statement in reaction to today’s report:

“The data released today is clear: solar power continues to boom in New York.

“If our state and local leaders keep up their commitments to solar power, New York’s environment and our health will benefit from cleaner air, water and a safer climate.

“These figures also show that even while President Trump withdraws from the Paris Climate Agreement and rolls back American commitments to act on climate change, state and local governments stand ready to ramp up renewable energy at record speed.

“In order to reach 100 percent renewable energy, we can and must continue the wave of solar adoption currently underway in our communities.

“We urge New York’s leaders to stand with us for a clean, bright solar future.”

Heather Leibowitz, Director of Environment New York, with State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins