New York Governor David Paterson has signed in new legislation that will encourage homeowners and businesses to install microgeneration and green roof technologies.

The legislation expands net metering so homeowners and businesses earn credits for any excess power they generate through wind turbines, solar panels or waste-based power generators.

Utility companies will be required to develop standard contracts with reasonable rates, terms and conditions for residential and non-residential customers, as well safety standards for connecting customers.

Now larger systems will be eligible to earn credits – businesses with solar power systems and wind turbines up to 2 MW can qualify, while homeowners can receive credits for solar power systems up to 25 kW and wind turbines up to 500 kW.

Buildings in New York City that install solar power systems or green roofs will also be eligible for property tax abatements.

“The generation of renewable energy and fuel sources has long been a priority of mine,” says Paterson. “By signing these bills, New York is taking a major first step to begin aggressively competing on a national renewable energy stage.”

Paterson says he hopes the legislation will drive investment by businesses and homeowners in renewable energy technologies in the region.

For further information:
www.ny.gov/governor/press/press_0808083.html
assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S07171&sh=t
assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S08415&sh=t
assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S08481&sh=t
assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S08145&sh=t
assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S07553&sh=t