is nyc ready for a solar revolution?

IS NYC READY FOR ASOLAR REVOLUTION?

BCB PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

In the past few years, New York City has

made significant strides to meet Mayor de

Blasio’s 2014 commitment to decrease

greenhouse gas emissions 80% by 2050,

as well as Gov. Cuomo’s goal to source

half of statewide electricity from

renewable energy by 2030.

But the challenges obstructing

New York City’s bid to go solar can

make the process seem convoluted

for homeowners and expensive for

building owners, since the

installation is an investment.

The most apparent obstacle is the

scarcity of sunlight–the result of tall and

densely-packed buildings constantly

casting each other in shadow.

Aside from that obvious drawback, installing

solar panels requires applying through the

Department of Buildings (DOB), negotiating

with massive utility companies like ConEd,

and complying with fire codes.

Each of these issues, however, has

recently been addressed.

Installation costs can be significantly offset

through rebates and tax credits, and reduced

further by joining a solar purchasing group.

The wait time for the DOB application process has

been minimized from months to weeks. And the

role utility companies will play has been carved

out by the New York Public Service commission.

And the role utility companies will play

has been carved out by the New York

Public Service commission.

Brooklyn SolarWorks has even developed a

workaround for the tricky problem of

applying solar panels to flat rooftops without

violating the fire code: a canopy system that

raises the panels above roof level.

In September, de Blasio showed off a solar

panel system at the Brooklyn Navy Yards.

Currently, most solar systems in New York

City are attached to suburban single-family

homes, although building owners and

management companies are beginning to come

on board for the long-term cost-savings.

And earlier this year, the city introduced

Solarize NYC, a campaign to make solar

energy more affordable and accessible.

While challenges remain, the solar movement

in New York City seems to be picking up speed.

And check out CUNY’s NYC Solar Map

if you’re considering going solar.

Use Google’s Project Sunroof to see how much

solar energy can save you.

Visit EnergySage’s New York Solar Marketplace

to evaluate your installation options.

W W W . B C B P R O P E R T Y M A N A G E M E N T . C O M