New York and California pass solar policies

The federal government may be dragging its feet when it comes to renewing or extending valuable US tax incentives for renewable energy projects, but states continue to adopt innovative policies.

The latest examples comes from New York, where the governor has signed a series of solar tax exemptions, and California, which is preparing to debate legislation that would help support development of community solar projects.

New York State Adopts Solar Tax Exemptions

In New York, Governor Cuomo approved a series of measures that will ease the tax burden for individuals and businesses investing in solar energy.

Connecticut launches Energy Savings Initiative

The State of Connecticut has launched an innovative energy savings performance contracting program that allows state agencies and municipalities to enter into performance contracting agreements with energy service companies. This program will upgrade facilities, reduce energy costs for the state and municipalities, create jobs, and drive investment in Connecticut’s economy. The program has a number of support mechanisms – like pre-approved contractors, on-call advisors, standardized contract templates, and targeted financial assistance – which will help ensure that state agencies and municipalities see positive results from this program.