In 2026, six states, including Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, Illinois, New York, and Colorado, have passed smart solar and storage policies to address rising electricity demand, lower power bills, and improve grid reliability. These policies, supported by SEIA, aim to deploy solar and storage, expand access to low-cost electricity, and save consumers billions of dollars over the next two decades. By investing in distributed energy resources and virtual power plant programs, these states are leading the way in modernizing their electric grids and demonstrating the effectiveness of clean energy solutions in meeting electricity demand, improving reliability, and reducing costs. Other states are also considering similar legislation to advance their clean energy goals.
Tag: New York
-
New York reaches 8 GW of distributed solar capacity
New York has exceeded its goal of 10 GW of distributed solar capacity by 2030, with 8 GW already installed thanks to the NY-Sun Program's financial incentives. The state set a record for solar installations in 2025 and has allocated $200 million for the program in 2027. To replicate this success in other states, experts recommend adopting proven models and establishing uniform statewide interconnection standards.
https://www.utilitydive.com/news/new-york-reaches-8-gw-of-distributed-solar-capacity/824867/
-
Hydropower Trips Up Trump’s Fossil Fuel Fantasy
The completion of the Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE) project in New York City in 2022 has connected ratepayers with clean hydropower resources in Quebec, reducing carbon emissions by 3.9 million metric tons per year and powering 1 million homes with renewable energy. Governor Kathy Hochul celebrated the project's completion, solidifying New York's position as a climate and clean energy leader and pushing gas power plants out of operation. The project showcases Hitachi Energy's HVDC Light technology, repurposes former fossil energy sites, and brings economic investments and job opportunities to disadvantaged communities. Additionally, a new report from the Department of Energy highlights the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of battery energy storage systems in improving hydropower facilities, further contributing to the energy transition in East Coast states. President Trump's support for hydropower projects, despite his opposition to other clean energy sources, is noted.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/06/17/hydropower-transmission-new-york-energy-policy/
-
$7,000 for Rooftop Solar Permitting!? Time to Automate It
Lawmakers in New York are pushing for automated permitting of rooftop solar power systems through SolarAPP+, a platform developed by the US government and the solar industry. This app-based system aims to streamline the permitting process, saving money and supporting the solar industry. The New York legislation would require municipalities with over 5,000 residents to implement automated solar permitting by June 30, 2027. The barriers to residential solar adoption in the US, such as slow and complex permitting processes, can add significant costs to installations. Kingston, New York, is highlighted as a leader in embracing automated permitting for residential solar, with the hope that other states will follow suit to continue growing SolarAPP+ adoption.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/06/14/7000-for-rooftop-solar-permitting-time-to-automate-it/
-
New York City’s hydropower contract kicks off
The Champlain Hudson Power Express transmission line is now delivering hydropower from Quebec to New York City, powering all of the city's government operations and 20% of its electric load. NYSERDA's purchase of renewable energy credits from Hydro Quebec will cut carbon emissions by 3.7 million tons annually, equivalent to removing 44% of vehicles from NYC streets. This project marks a significant advancement towards a sustainable energy future in New York, showcasing the potential for large-scale renewable energy solutions to combat climate change.
https://www.eenews.net/articles/new-york-citys-hydropower-contract-kicks-off/
-
As Fossil Fuel Costs Rise, Renewable Energy And Storage Shine
Renewable energy and energy storage are dominating new utility-scale power generation capacity in the US, providing opportunities for energy consumers to buffer against fossil fuel price spikes. New York and New Jersey are leading the way in developing robust renewable energy profiles, with a focus on incentives for homeowners and innovative projects like floating solar power plants. Virtual power plants are being utilized to coordinate demand and supply among small devices, helping utilities avoid costly new gas plant construction. States like Massachusetts are setting ambitious targets for offshore wind projects and new solar and storage capacity by 2035, aiming to achieve significant savings through renewable energy initiatives. Despite uncertainties surrounding factors like natural gas costs and federal energy policy changes, US states are continuing to promote renewable energy transitions with incentives for energy storage, virtual power plants, and new wind and solar projects.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/17/as-fossil-fuel-costs-rise-renewable-energy-storage-shine/
-
Trump’s Offshore Wind Nightmare Becomes Reality
Despite President Trump's attempts to halt offshore wind farm projects like Vineyard Wind and Revolution Wind, the development of multiple gigawatts of clean power on the Atlantic Coast is progressing. Vineyard Wind, with all 62 turbines now installed, is contributing to the growth of the domestic offshore wind industry. Revolution Wind, serving Rhode Island and Connecticut, reached a key milestone by sending electricity to the grid and is expected to save ratepayers up to $500 million per year. Other delayed projects, like Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind and Empire Wind, are also moving towards completion. With congestion pricing upheld in New York and the Sunrise Wind project progressing towards commissioning in 2027, the US offshore wind industry continues to grow, with multiple gigawatts of clean electricity heading for the nation's grid.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/14/trumps-offshore-wind-nightmare-has-become-reality/
-
The US Offshore Wind Industry Gets An Assist From Singapore
The Empire Wind offshore wind farm off the coast of New York, initially halted by President Trump, is back on track with the use of shuttle models and a Jones-compliant vessel from Singapore for construction. Seatrium has built a new WTIV for the US offshore wind industry, designed to handle large turbines and comply with the Jones Act. Despite challenges, including Trump's attempts to halt projects, the vessel is now in use at the Empire Wind project. The global offshore wind industry is growing, with advancements in technology and construction progressing worldwide, showcasing the potential for renewable energy industries to thrive.
-
Con Ed eyes $38B in capital spending through 2030
Consolidated Edison is planning $38B in utility capital investments over five years to support building and transportation electrification, with a focus on solar generation. They are seeing a significant increase in electric vehicle charging and electric heat requests, aiming to invest proactively to meet New York's clean energy goals. To address reliability challenges, Con Ed plans to add 22 new substations by 2034 and grow their investment base by 8.6% annually through 2030. Additionally, they are exploring joint ownership of large-scale renewable generation to advance the state's clean energy standard, with a decision expected by May.
https://www.utilitydive.com/news/con-ed-capital-spending-rates-earnings/812981/
-
Why regional manufacturing will power the next clean economy
The section discusses the importance of manufacturing in the clean energy transition, highlighting how regions like New York, Pittsburgh, and Los Angeles are leading the way in integrating industry and climate goals. New York's success in creating a foundation for climate manufacturing through initiatives like Industrial Action Plans and incentives for advanced industries demonstrates the potential for aligning industrial infrastructure, policy, and programs to drive the clean energy transition and economic growth. Similarly, Los Angeles is working towards becoming a durable climate manufacturing hub through coordinated programs and the development of a "Climate Manufacturing Compact" to align stakeholders around climate action and industrial growth. The Great Lakes corridor is also transitioning to become the nation's "Battery Belt," but faces challenges that can be addressed through a cohesive regional strategy with shared metrics and investments in climate manufacturing ecosystems. By working together, government, industry, and investors can create a "Climate Manufacturing Commons" where ideas, talent, and production flow across borders, proving that rebuilding industry and addressing climate change are interconnected projects of national renewal.
https://www.utilitydive.com/news/regional-manufacturing-clean-economy/808016/