This is great news and something we [...]]]> Solar energy just got some serious financial backing in New York. Governor David Patterson announced recently that the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority will award a $6 million grant to the Long Island Power Authority in support of Long Island’s solar energy programs.

This is great news and something we need to start having happen all over the world. The funding will assist homeowners and businesses purchase and install solar photovoltaic systems. The growing demand for solar panels in the region are helping push this along.

The funds will also assist the power authority in increasing its renewable energy portfolio to meet Governor Patterson’s goal of achieving 45 percent of New York’s electricity needs through improved energy efficiency and renewable resources by 2015.

Now, who is going to be doing the heavy lifting here? BP Solar International Inc. and EnXco Development Corporation are the cats in charge.

There is increased talk about collaboration between Long Island and New York on an offshore wind project in the near future as well. This is all very positive news.