New York utility installs 1,000th solar PV system

HICKSVILLE, New York, USA, July 4, 2007. The Long Island Power Authority has dedicated the installation of the 1,000th solar roof on the New York suburb.

The 9,180 watt PV system will generate 10,384 kWh a year, which will save its owners US$2,100 per year, says LIPA. The utility’s ‘Solar Pioneer’ program has rebated $26 million for 5,781 kW of solar panels.

The cost for a typical 54-panel PV system ranges from $68,850 to $73,440. LIPA, through its ‘Clean Energy Initiative.’ provides a rebate of $34,425 and homeowners may further reduce system costs from federal and state tax incentives, which could total $7,000, and by selling excess electricity back to LIPA.

“Solar installations on Long Island have been growing at a steady pace,” says Richard Kessel of LIPA. “The 1,000th solar roof represents an increasing awareness on Long Island that we can take control of our energy future and work toward energy independence by using more alternative energy technologies.”

“Renewable Energy Long Island had a goal to see 1,000 solar roofs installed on Long Island by the end of 2007, and we are thrilled to have reached this important solar milestone six months ahead of schedule,” adds Gordian Raacke of the not-for-profit RELI. “Thanks to attractive LIPA cash rebates, sizable tax credits, and the work of our tireless SolarCorps volunteers and solar homeowners, a record number of Long Island Solar Pioneers are doing their part to lower emissions, create local jobs and cut our dependency on fossil fuels.”

LIPA has rebated the installation of 5,781 kW of solar panels on 954 residential and 46 commercial roofs. In addition, it has accepted 271 pending PV applications for a total of $7.2 million in rebates for 1,841 kW of additional solar-generated energy.

“I have a special love for this place and, with Long Island’s abundant sunshine, it is the perfect location for using solar energy,” says homeowner Christie Brinkley. “We are finally stepping up to the plate in the battle against global warming by using renewable energy for a brighter future.”

LIPA is a non-profit municipal utility that provides electric service to 1.1 million customers in Nassau and Suffolk counties and the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens. It is the third largest municipal electric utility in the U.S. in terms of customers served and the sixth largest in terms of electricity delivered.

Earlier last month, it issued a solicitation for proposals to provide 25 MWh of non-firm unit contingent energy from existing wind-powered generating facilities for a period of one year. LIPA seeks prices for energy to be delivered during each of three specified time periods: off-peak, peak and super peak, with responses to the RFP due by August 7.

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