Senator Kenneth P. LaValle today announced that commercial businesses will be able to save money in energy costs as a result of several renewable energy initiatives that have been signed into law. The bills expand net metering to include businesses that install solar or wind technologies to generate energy, as well as expand the amount farm service and residential generators are allowed to net meter.
"The rising cost of energy has made it difficult for many businesses on Long Island to sustain their economic viability," said Senator LaValle. "The installation of alternative energy sources will help businesses meet their demand for power at a reduced cost and pass that savings on to their consumers."
According to Senator LaValle, net metering allows an energy consumer with an on-site electric generating system to send excess power back to the utility and receive credit against their own usage. Currently, state law allows net metering for solar and wind systems on residential properties, and farm waste and wind systems on agricultural properties. Under the new legislation, the net metering laws have been expanded to include businesses that generate electricity through on-site net metered solar or wind technologies. This creates greater incentives for businesses to install alternative energy generating systems that reduce dependence on traditional energy sources. The cleaner energy sources not only save businesses money, but protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
"More and more businesses are looking to invest in alternative energy systems, particularly those with high energy demands," said Senator LaValle. "By amending the net metering law to include businesses, we will expand New York’s energy resources, reduce our reliance on nonrenewable technologies, and create green collar jobs throughout the state."
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