Seia Applauds New York Psc Decision To Raise Nem Cap Move Community Solar Forward

WASHINGTON, DC - In another step forward for clean, renewable solar energy, the New York Public Service Commission (PSC) has approved raising the net energy metering (NEM) cap from 3 percent to 6 percent for all utilities. At the same meeting, the PSC announced plans to advance Community Shared Renewables, an innovative concept that could enable renters and millions of other New York energy consumers to go solar for the first time. "This is a huge step forward in New York's efforts to create new jobs, reduce pollution and fight climate change," said Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). "Governor Cuomo and the PSC deserve a lot of credit for being forward looking and for understanding the importance of market certainty. With 338 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity already installed across the state, this action puts New York on a clear trajectory to become one of the nation's leading solar states." The 338 MW of solar energy currently installed in New York ranks the state 9th in the country in installed solar capacity. There is enough solar energy installed in the state to power 57,000 homes. In 2013, 343 million was invested in New York to install solar for home, business and utility use. This represents a 12 percent increase over the previous year and is expected to grow again this year.Nationwide, the solar industry employs 143,000 Americans, pumps nearly 20 billion a year into the U.S. economy and helps to protect the environment. ### ABOUT SEIA: Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2014, the Solar Energy Industries Association(R) is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA(R) is building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies to champion the use of clean, affordable solar in America by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org. MEDIA CONTACTS: Ken Johnson, SEIA Vice President of Communications, kjohnson@seia.org (202) 556-2885Samantha Page, SEIA Press Officer and Communications Manager, spage@seia.org (202) 556-2886