1. 1 Sunlight hits the solar panels.
2. 2 Direct current (DC) flows from the panels to an inverter that turns it into alternating current (AC).
3. 3 Transformer increases voltage of electricity.
4. 4 Electricity travels through transmission lines.
5. 5 Transformer decreases voltage of electricity.
6. 6 Electricity travels through collection lines.
7. 7 Electricity is delivered to customers.

New York State has set ambitious targets to generate up to 70% of its electricity from renewable sources and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. New York is starting with a significant base of renewable energy generation. Sources such as hydropower, solar, and wind generated approximately 30% of New York’s electricity in 2022. To reach 70%, New York is committed to installing more wind, solar, and renewable generation and improving efficiency to reduce electricity consumption. We are committed to helping New York reach these goals.

As of December 2023, over 5,500 MW of solar energy was operating in New York, generating enough electricity to power over 900,000 New York households. This generation offsets the need to import or burn other fuels, helping to reduce fuel prices and air emissions.

Solar energy and other renewable energy projects generate substantial economic benefits for New York. According to SEIA, there are more than 11,000 solar jobs in NY, and solar energy projects have invested over $11.7 billion dollars in New York businesses, landowners, and municipalities.