Jasmine Graham from Mid-Hudson Energy Transition and Brad Tito from Power Market.
The Town of Poughkeepsie Town Board has recently greenlit the implementation of a community solar program, to benefit an estimated 7,000 households within the town. This initiative aims to increase access to solar energy, offering savings of up to 20% on electricity bills. The two solar projects connecting to the program are located in Esopus and Milan, New York.
The program is tailored to residents eligible for various assistance programs, including the Central Hudson Bill Discount Program, EAP, HEAP, LIHEAP, Section 8, SNAP, or Medicaid. Whether you rent or own your home, you qualify to enroll in the community solar program, providing an accessible pathway to embrace renewable energy without the need for costly solar panel installations.
A standout feature of the program is its flexibility. Residents have the liberty to join and withdraw from participation at their discretion, providing convenience and control over their energy decisions.
The origination of this initiative can be traced back to the Town of Poughkeepsie Climate Smart Taskforce, which initially proposed the adoption of the community solar program. By embracing this sustainable solution, residents stand to realize savings of up to 20% on their electric bills, a substantial reduction with tangible implications for household finances.
Beyond the direct benefits to residents, the Town's engagement in the program carries broader ramifications. Through its participation, the town becomes eligible for grants from NYSERDA's Clean Energy Communities program, contingent upon the level of resident involvement in the community solar program. These grants, potentially exceeding $200,000, can be allocated towards energy-saving endeavors and infrastructure enhancements, ultimately benefiting the entire community and alleviating the financial burden on local taxpayers.
The community solar program is offered in collaboration with Power Market and Mid-Hudson Energy Transition, leveraging their expertise and resources to ensure its success. As implementation progresses, the Poughkeepsie Weekly will deliver more information on the program rollout.
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