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New York has achieved a significant clean energy milestone, with 6 gigawatts (GW) of distributed solar now operational across the state. This achievement marks the early fulfillment of a key goal set by the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), a year ahead of schedule. The new capacity is enough to power more than a million homes, reinforcing New York’s leadership in solar energy deployment.
Governor Kathy Hochul celebrated the accomplishment, emphasizing its importance in building a resilient, zero-emission grid. “Reaching the 6-GW milestone brings us closer to a reliable, emissions-free energy future. Distributed solar plays a crucial role in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and delivering tangible benefits for our health, environment, and economy,” she said.
The announcement was made by New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) President and CEO Doreen M. Harris at a solar project site in the Town of New Scotland. The project, developed by New Leaf Energy and owned by Generate Capital, includes a 5.7-megawatt array, capable of powering nearly 1,000 homes annually. It is also part of the state’s “Solar for All” pilot program, providing energy savings to low-income households.
New York’s solar industry has flourished, creating more than 14,000 jobs statewide and attracting $9.2 billion in private investment. The achievement of the 6-GW goal, supported by the state’s $3.3 billion NY-Sun initiative, positions New York well on the path toward its next target of 10 GW of solar by 2030.
Doreen M. Harris lauded the state’s progress, noting that New York’s model for community solar has made clean, low-cost energy accessible to more consumers. Public-private partnerships have been key to the state’s rapid solar expansion, which benefits not only homeowners but also disadvantaged communities.
New York should set higher goals for solar, and policies to help us reach them
The solar milestone has drawn praise from stakeholders across the energy sector, with many highlighting the role of solar in delivering economic and environmental benefits. Generate Capital’s Managing Director Peggy Flannery commended New York for its commitment to clean energy, while other industry leaders, including the New York Solar Energy Industries Association, emphasized the broad impact of distributed solar in lowering energy bills, creating jobs, and reducing emissions.
New York’s success has solidified its status as the national leader in community solar, with the state ranking first in total installed capacity. The state’s Solar for All program, which ensures low-income residents benefit from clean energy savings, has been expanded statewide and is driving further growth in community solar projects.
Looking ahead, New York remains committed to its ambitious climate goals. The state is targeting 70% renewable energy generation by 2030 and a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, all while maintaining a focus on equitable access to clean energy for disadvantaged communities.
With continued momentum, New York is expected to exceed its initial solar targets, cementing its role as a national leader in the clean energy transition.
Source: NYSERDA
