New York's Solar Capacity Grew 30 Percent in 2013

 A recent report says solar energy capacity grew 30 percent in New York in 2013. Photo Credit: Dave Dugdale via Flickr

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. -- Solar energy capacity in New York state grew by 30 percent in 2013, according to a report by Environment New York Research & Policy Center.

In 2013, solar capacity in New York grew from 175 megawatts to 250 megawatts.

“Solar energy is emerging as a go-to energy option here in New York and across the country,” Heather Leibowitz, director of Environment New York, said in a statement. “Thanks to the commitment of New York’s leaders, this pollution-free energy option is poised to play a major role in helping us meet New York’s goal of a 44 percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030.”

One of the biggest drivers in solar growth is the reduction in price. The price of installed solar systems fell 60 percent between the beginning of 2011 and the end of 2013.

Due to the growth, the solar industry is also creating new jobs. In 2013, there were more than 140,000 solar jobs in the U.S., including 5,000 in New York.

Source: http://armonk.dailyvoice.com/lifestyle/new-yorks-solar-capacity-grew-30-percent-2013