Board supports solar energy, but not letter

NORTH EAST — Town Clerk Lisa Cope presented her monthly report at the board’s regular business meeting on Thursday, Aug. 13. At that time she asked the board if it would like to throw its support behind a letter to Gov. Andrew Cuomo regarding solar energy.

The letter urges the governor “to make solar energy a key element of New York’s energy future.

“By using solar energy to power our homes, businesses, schools, farms and government buildings, we can reduce pollution, reduce energy bills and boost local economies,” continued the letter. “Yet, a small fraction of New York’s power comes from the sun.”

The letter goes on to state that during the past three years solar capacity throughout the nation has grown by 63 percent per year, and that in the beginning of 2014 “more than half of the new electric power capacity installed in the U.S. was solar.”

It asked that those signing the letter support an initiative to commit the state to getting 20 percent of its power from the sun by 2025, growing solar energy by 47 percent per year.

“By committing New York to expanding solar, we are investing in a virtually limitless energy source with no fuel costs,” it stated. “For the sake of our environment, our health and the economy, we ask that you join us …”

As of the August meeting, 40 politicians from around the state had endorsed the letter. Poughkeepsie, Union Vale and Red Hook leaders were among them.

“My only concern,” said North East Councilman George Kaye, “is the only thing it does advocate for is solar, and I don’t think anybody is against solar as an energy package, but if we’re only advocating for solar we’re not taking into account other energy [options].”

Town Supervisor John Merwin noted that the letter is “not a local law or national energy solution by any stretch of the imagination.”

“Growth of 47 percent per year is pretty sizeable,” said Kaye.

“Would it be safe to say that we advocate for solar but at this time don’t wish to sign on?” asked Merwin.

“If it doesn’t commit us to anything,” said Councilman Ralph Fedele.

“No, I don’t think so,” said Cope. 

“I’m certainly not opposed to solar energy, but if we’re pushing for 47 percent per year that’s a pretty sizeable commitment,” said Kaye.

“That’s just what I said,” said Merwin. “We could not sign on but say we support solar energy. I hear what you’re saying and tend to agree.”