Cornell Cooperative Extension

Cayuga County
Solar Panels on top of Taitem Engineering, Ithaca NY

Solar panels on a residence

Solar Energy

Cornell Cooperative Extension provides consumers with unbiased, research-based information to enable them to make informed decisions for themselves and their families. In this section, you will find information on solar energy that may help you to decide whether solar is right for you and your home.

For more information on state incentives, as well as general information about solar, visit NYSERDA's NY Sun program site. There, you can also find information about how the solar credits show up on your electric bill.

Solar panels on the roof of CCE Tompkins

About Solar Energy

Solar energy is simply energy derived from the sun, which we can then convert to electricity or thermal energy. Since sunlight is relatively infinite, solar energy is one of our most promising renewable resources.

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2 men on a roof installing a solar panel

Finding Installers

To be eligible for incentives and financing through NYSERDA, you must choose a participating contractor to install your solar system. Learn more about finding a contractor here.

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Cornell University's Dryden solar farm sits next to fields hosting cows and is partially grazed by sheep.

Ag & Solar

Find information here from Cornell University on solar development and land use, with a focus on commercial solar and its impact on agriculture in New York State.

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solar farm; rows of solar panels on a hill side

Solar Land Leasing

If you own land you'd like to lease, solar developers are contacting farmers and landowners in NY State to secure leases on 10-30 acre parcels.

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Household electric meter, USA

Net Metering

Net metering is the mechanism by which you get credit for the power your solar system produces. Whenever the sun is shining on them, your solar panels are producing power.

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Solar water heating on roof in Washington, D.C.

Solar Thermal Systems

Solar thermal systems convert solar radiation to thermal energy. A solar water heater can meet 90-100% of your hot water needs in the summer.

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Last updated March 7, 2024

Solar Energy

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