State-supported solar power in New York has increased nearly 800 percent over the last five years, leveraging nearly $1.5 billion in private investment.

Governor Andrew Cuomo made the announcement today.

Nearly 65,000 solar projects were installed through December 2016, compared with about 9,000 through the end of 2011.

The largest increase in solar power was in the Mohawk Valley.

The governor committed $1 billion to the NY Sun initiative in 2014 to increase the number of solar electric systems across the state over ten years.

“New York is a national leader in clean energy, and the tremendous growth of the solar industry across this state demonstrates this renewal technology’s increased accessibility and affordability for residents and businesses," Governor Cuomo said. "Our investments in this clean energy resource create jobs, reduce carbon emissions, support economic growth, and help build a cleaner, greener New York for all."

Solar growth is critical to the Governor’s Clean Energy Standard that 50 percent of New York’s electricity come from renewable sources by 2030.

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