SEIA Applauds Initiative to Expand Solar on NYC Schools

WASHINGTON, DC - Calling it an “important step forward,” the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is applauding a new initiative announced by New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio to install more than 6,000 kilowatts (kW) of solar power on public schools across the city.

“This strong commitment from Mayor de Blasio represents an important step forward in ongoing efforts to expand solar deployment across New York City,” said SEIA president and CEO Rhone Resch. “Increasing the use of solar power on public schools can help save money for textbooks and teachers’ salaries, while reducing carbon emissions and fighting climate change.  That’s a win all the way around.”

This announcement comes on the heels of a comprehensive new report on solar power in U.S. schools that demonstrates the significant cost savings and environmental benefits of installing solar on school roofs. Prepared by the Solar Foundation – with data and analysis support from SEIA – the report found that New York City alone can save $209 million by capitalizing on the solar potential of its public schools.

The initiative will be funded by the City of New York and the New York State Energy Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) and will include installations at 24 different school facilities. The new projects will effectively triple the amount of solar currently on City-owned buildings, and will reduce New York’s carbon emissions by 2,800 metric tons per year.

Today, solar is the fastest-growing source of renewable energy in America, generating enough clean, affordable electricity to power more than 3.2 million homes.

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About SEIA:

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2014, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies to champion the use of clean, affordable solar in America by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.

Media Contact:

Ken Johnson, SEIA Vice President of Communications, kjohnson@seia.org (202) 556-2885
Samantha Page, SEIA Press Officer and Communications Manager, spage@seia.org (202) 556-2886