NY Achieves 6 Gigawatts of Solar

In New York State, the sun shines for everyone.

More than six gigawatts (GW) of solar energy has been installed in New York State – enough to power one million homes and businesses. This robust solar energy infrastructure enables a resilient electric grid that supports local jobs, healthier communities, and access to renewable energy for more New Yorkers.

This milestone also marks the early achievement of New York State’s goal of deploying 6,000 megawatts of distributed solar energy by 2025, set by the Climate Act .

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$9.5 billion in private investment

14,000 clean energy jobs in solar

800+ community solar projects

at least 35% of benefits to disadvantage communities

GHG emissions reductions equivalent to taking 800,000 cars off the road

A Brighter Future With Solar

New York is the national leader in community solar, a program that allows renters, low-income residents, small businesses, and homeowners to tap into the benefits of solar energy without installing their own panels.

By 2030, New York is expected to be home to more than 10 GW of distributed solar energy. This includes ground-mounted and roof-top solar on residential and commercial properties, as well as community solar projects.

New York’s transition to an increasingly renewably powered energy system is creating economic opportunities and more resilient communities statewide.

An Enhanced, More Resilient Electric Grid

Solar projects, especially when combined with energy storage, enhance the grid’s ability to provide reliable electricity during extreme weather events and peak demand.

Solar reduces the overall load on the electrical grid, particularly on hot summer days when there is the greatest demand for electricity. This means fewer brownouts or blackouts and more resilient energy systems for all consumers, even those who don’t have solar panels installed.

Producing more renewable energy closer to where it’s consumed with a mix of on-site solar, community solar, and utility-scale solar means that less electricity is lost in transmission and distribution in the grid. Creating a more decentralized grid powered by numerous solar, wind, and energy storage projects reduces the risk of grid interruptions and outages.

Rooftop solar on a grocery distribution center in Bronx, NY.

Rooftop solar on a multifamily property in Brooklyn, NY..

Residential rooftop solar in Brooklyn, NY.

Residential rooftop solar in Gardiner, NY.

Agrivolatic solar project in Newfield, NY integrates livestock grazing with renewable energy generation.

Agrivolatic solar project integrates livestock grazing with renewable energy generation.

Solar project in Rome, NY.

Solar project sited on Pine Avenue Landfill in Niagara Falls, NY.

Cleaner and Healthier Communities

Burning fossil fuels, such as natural gas and oil, to produce electricity releases air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions that harm public health and contribute to climate change. Installing more solar energy directly supports the transition away from fossil fuel-based power generation to a clean electricity grid.

New York’s six GW of solar capacity is the greenhouse gas emissions reduction equivalent of taking nearly 800,000 passenger vehicles off the road. Accelerating the transition away from fossil fuel-powered generation, especially in disadvantaged communities, can reverse historic health inequities and ensure all New Yorkers benefit from the clean energy transition.

Economic Growth and Clean Energy Jobs

Solar energy projects are driving economic development and job growth in New York’s clean energy economy. To date, these projects have created 14,000 solar jobs and leveraged $9.5 billion in private investment in communities across New York State. These economic benefits contribute to the state’s overall economic well-being, position New York as a national hub for solar, and bring energy cost savings to residents and businesses statewide.