By Frank Andorka, Senior Correspondent
New York’s Governor Andrew Cuomo has set lofty solar goals for his state as it tries to catch up to its Northeastern neighbors like Massachusetts and New Jersey. And in the Bronx, one organization is trying to help him meet them.
CleanChoice Energy, a renewable energy company that provides wind and solar energy products to customers across the country, has opened subscriber enrollment for the Altus Bronx Community Solar Farm. The new Community Solar Farm is located on a commercial building in the Parkchester neighborhood in the Bronx. With space available to more than 150 residents, it is one of the largest Community Solar enrollments ever opened in the Bronx. Residents across the Bronx, and all of New York City, can support local solar and save up to 5% off their utility bills by becoming subscribers to the Altus Community Solar Farm.
“Bringing Community Solar to the Bronx is hugely important. The Altus Bronx Community Solar Farm means that more people than ever can access clean solar energy while saving money on their utility bills,” said Tom Matzzie, CEO of CleanChoice Energy. “Community Solar allows New Yorkers to support local solar without a big upfront investment or a home construction project—instead they can sign up online in just a few minutes and save money on their utility bills.”
Altus Bronx Community Solar subscribers can live in any part of New York City and will receive credit on their electric bill for the power generated by the solar panels at the site. CleanChoice’s platform connects people to local community solar projects, allowing customers to sign-up in less than five minutes, and manages ongoing customer engagement–all fully digital and completely online. CleanChoice Energy Community Solar subscribers pay no upfront costs, have no maintenance, and do not need to own their roof—allowing anyone to support local solar even if they rent or do not have a roof suitable for solar panels.