In a significant leap toward a sustainable future, New York State has surpassed expectations by installing eight gigawatts (GW) of distributed solar energy, positioning itself well ahead of its 2030 goal of 10 GW. This achievement has spurred approximately $12.2 billion in private investments while creating over 16,000 jobs across the state.
Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, “New York continues to set the bar high as we mark another milestone for solar within our communities across the state.” She highlighted solar energy’s role in providing low-cost, reliable energy solutions that benefit New York’s economy, environment, and energy diversity.
The state’s distributed solar capacity, driven by community solar projects and the NY-Sun Program, now powers more than 1.3 million homes and businesses, including those in disadvantaged areas. With over 276,000 solar projects already operational and an additional 2.7 GW in development, solar energy is expanding rapidly. Community solar initiatives enable broader access to solar power without requiring personal property installations.
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris remarked, “New York is home to 35 percent of the nation’s community solar generation – securing its position as the top community solar market in the country.” Harris noted solar energy’s reliability in reducing overall energy costs, benefiting all New Yorkers.
Public Service Commission Chair and CEO Rory Christian highlighted the immediate advantages of solar power: “We are seeing the benefits of New York’s solar assets in real time. Solar is reducing the strain on our electric grid, while providing significant reliability benefits especially during periods of peak demand.”
Solar energy’s impact was evident last summer when it helped save New Yorkers an estimated $90 million by easing the electric grid’s demand during peak usage. On June 3, 2026, solar energy reached a new high by contributing 29 percent of the state’s electricity demand during the noon hour, showcasing its growing significance.
New York initially met its six-gigawatt solar target a year early, in 2024. The state set a record by installing 1.28 GW of solar in 2025 alone. Through the Statewide Solar For All Program, New York continues to be a leader by enabling renters and low-income residents to reap the benefits of solar energy. Governor Hochul has also secured $200 million in the 2027 budget to further solar expansion and enhance energy affordability.
State Senator Pete Harckham praised the achievement, stating, “Today’s announcement that eight gigawatts of distributed solar have been installed across New York is great news… There are brighter days ahead for renewable energy here in New York!”
Assemblymember Didi Barrett added, “Distributed solar is a win-win-win — lowering New Yorkers energy costs, creating good-paying union jobs, and reducing emissions.” Barrett commended the $200 million dedicated to the NY-Sun Program for simplifying solar project implementations.
Assemblymember Deborah Glick acknowledged the success of New York’s solar initiatives, noting that they offer cost savings and environmental benefits while reducing fossil fuel dependency.
New York Solar Energy Industries Association Executive Director Noah Ginsburg recognized the dual financial and environmental advantages of solar energy, emphasizing its role in powering the local economy and communities across the state.
Coalition for Community Solar Access Northeast Regional Director Kate Daniel celebrated the achievement, remarking on the contribution of distributed solar to lowering energy costs and maintaining grid reliability. “We look forward to continued progress in the nation’s top state for community solar,” Daniel said.
New York’s NY-Sun Program provides incentives to make solar more affordable and accessible to homes, businesses, and communities while lowering their energy costs.
Original Story at www.governor.ny.gov