The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has unveiled plans for a $200 million expansion to its NY-Sun residential and commercial solar program, officials announced Oct. 14.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the new funding as part of the New York State Fiscal Year 2027 Enacted Budget, representatives say. Coming through the state’s Sustainable Future Program, the infusion of funds aims to expand access to affordable solar across the Empire State, supporting more than 565 MW of new photovoltaic developments.

“With Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment, NY-Sun continues to be a national model for growing distributed solar in a way that is affordable and reliable for all New Yorkers,” says NYSERDA president and CEO Doreen M. Harris. “This funding delivers bill relief to the households that need it most and helps businesses lower their energy costs with rooftop projects that also strengthen the grid – providing power during peak load.”

The program’s new funding will provide enough new solar to power more than 90,000 homes across New York, according to NYSERDA officials. The program also includes incentives, the organization says, that promote solar siting on rooftops, parking canopies, and “other developed sites” within New York’s already-built environment.

“New York’s investment in the NY-Sun Program demonstrates how states can advance smart, affordable clean energy solutions like rooftop and community solar to lower electricity costs, keep the lights on, and create good-paying jobs,” says Tim Pawlenty, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).

“It’s a win for consumers, communities, and the state’s economy.”

Breaking down the new funding

NYSERDA officials say approximately $116 million of the funding — about 58% — will support about 450 MW of commercial and community solar projects around New York. This funding includes “expanded incentives for Statewide Solar for All,” according to NYSERDA, which aims to deliver bill savings for low- and moderate-income households.

The funds also account for $31 million to support about 75 MW of midsize commercial, governmental, and multifamily projects, NYSERDA says. This accounts for enough generation to power over 12,000 homes and businesses, officials add.

“As New Yorkers continue to face high energy costs and rising fossil fuel prices, expanding access to affordable, renewable solar power is more important than ever,” says Sen. Pete Harckham. “The NY-Sun Program has been instrumental in advancing New York’s clean energy goals, and this $200 million investment is exactly the kind of smart, forward-looking investment we need.”

Another $20 million will go toward onsite solar for low- and moderate-income households, NYSERDA says. The organization adds that $33 million will be allotted to high-demand sectors, through a flexible market funding channel.

“Rooftop and community solar are powerful tools to lower New Yorkers’ energy bills while meeting rising electricity demand quickly and cost-effectively,” says Noah Ginsburg, executive director of the New York Solar Energy Industries Association (NYSEIA). “By investing in the NY-Sun Program, New York’s leaders are expanding access to local solar, delivering targeted relief to residents and businesses.”

As of 2026, NY-Sun has brought distributed solar and community solar projects online, powering more than 1.3 million homes across the state.

Tags: Community Solar, funding, legislation, New York, NYSERDA, policy, Residential Solar