http://www.energyefficiencynews.comAfion Media Ltd New York paves way for microgeneration and green roofs <p><a href="http://www.ny.gov/" rel="external">New York Governor David Paterson</a> has signed in new legislation that will encourage homeowners and businesses to install microgeneration and green roof technologies.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>Now larger systems will be eligible to earn credits &ndash; 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.</p> <p>Buildings in New York City that install solar power systems or green roofs will also be eligible for property tax abatements.</p> <p>&ldquo;The generation of renewable energy and fuel sources has long been a priority of mine,&rdquo; says Paterson. &ldquo;By signing these bills, New York is taking a major first step to begin aggressively competing on a national renewable energy stage.&rdquo;</p> <p>Paterson says he hopes the legislation will drive investment by businesses and homeowners in renewable energy technologies in the region.</p> <p>For further information:<br /> <a href="http://www.ny.gov/governor/press/press_0808083.html" rel="external">www.ny.gov/governor/press/press_0808083.html</a><br /> <a href="http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S07171&amp;sh=t" rel="external">assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S07171&amp;sh=t</a><br /> <a href="http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S08415&amp;sh=t" rel="external">assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S08415&amp;sh=t</a><br /> <a href="http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S08481&amp;sh=t" rel="external">assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S08481&amp;sh=t</a><br /> <a href="http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S08145&amp;sh=t" rel="external">assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S08145&amp;sh=t</a><br /> <a href="http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S07553&amp;sh=t" rel="external">assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S07553&amp;sh=t</a></p> http://www.energyefficiencynews.com/policy/i/1086/ 2008-08-15T00:00:00-00:00 US policy, New York, microgeneration, renewables, building and design