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Another install just in time for the Holidays!

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LARGE PROJECTS DRIVE MONOLITH SOLAR'S GROWTH

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DONNA ABBOTT VLAHOS

Monolith Solar installed panels at 455 Patroon Creek Blvd., a major commercial space in… more

Steve Erby, vice president of Monolith SolarAssociates, has two ambitious goals for the solar company to reach within the next year: Move into the Vista Technology Park by January and add up to 50 employees.

"January is a very aggressive move-in date, but I'm a very big believer in setting goals," Erby says.

Since the company started in 2009, operating out of Erby's garage, the size of its solar projects has grown. Monolith's new location in the Vista Technology Campus will feature a 2 million-watt system. During Monolith's early years, the largest project the company completed was a 25,000-watt system.The company will hire between 40 and 50 people, adding to the 60 current employees. That growth is driven by a number of large projects, including a solar farm for Rensselaer County. Monolith is also working on solar farms for Schenectady County and the Sage Colleges, among others.

"People are realizing solar is here to stay and it"s in for the long haul," Erby says.

MONOLITH'S OFFICE SPACE IN RENSSELAER IS OVERCROWDED, ERBY SAYS. THE 16,000-SQUARE-FOOT OFFICE SPACE AT VISTA WILL BE FOUR TIMES LARGER THAN THE RENSSELAER LOCATION.

Our new black on black monocrystalline panels

Cambridge Central School District - First Solar in Washington County!!

CAMBRIDGE, N.Y. >> Cambridge Central School recently completed the installation of a solar panel array at both the District Offices/Bus Garage and the school campus. The solar array was installed by Monolith Solar, and represents the first large scale solar array installed at a public school in Washington County. The CCS Solar Power Project was part of the continuing efforts of the school's Energy and Sustainability Committee, which has worked over the past 9 years to make recommendations to the Board of Education on ways to make the school more energy efficient and sustainable.

The Solar Power Project came at no cost to the school district, as it was part of a power purchase agreement between CCS and Monolith Solar. This project had no impact on the taxpayer and has created the opportunity for CCS to purchase energy at a reduced rate, while also educating students about the benefits of renewable energy resources. The CCS Solar array is made up of two separate systems. One system is installed on the roof of the K-12 school building. This system is made up of 671 panels, with each panel producing 300 watts. The total system size is 201,300 watts and is expected to produce over 202,000 kilowatt-hours of energy annually. This will offset about 139 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, and will supply around 26 percent of the school's annual electricity needs.

The District Office/Bus Garage system is comprised of 275 panels, producing 82,500 watts. This array is expected to produce over 83,000 kilowatt-hours of energy annually. This offsets about 57.2 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, and will supply 100 percent of the building's electricity needs. Specific information about the solar panels, including real time data can be found at www.cambridgecsd.org.

It's always rewarding to hear that our customers are excited about solar! "Give me the warm power of the sun. Thank you, Monolith Solar!”

City of Troy Goes Solar

The city of Troy is  planning to install a 3 megawatt solar farm on several city-owned properties as part of a deal that could save the city $300,000 annually in electric costs.

Last month the city council authorized the mayor to sign a memorandum of understanding with Monolith Solar of Rensselaer to build the solar farm, which would be paid for up front by Monolith.

The city would enter into a 20-year power purchase agreement with Monolith to buy the solar power, which would net the city roughly $300,000 in annual credits from National Grid.

Floating Solar Panels Conserve Water While Flooding Grid With Energy « CBS San Francisco

Floating Solar Panels Conserve Water While Flooding Grid With Energy « CBS San Francisco

Perks of the Job: Getting to hang out with our local firefighters for our Solar PV Fire Safety Course. Big thanks to Stuyvesant Fire Company #1 and the 5 surrounding departments for letting us come for this class!!!

And the #solarjobs numbers are telling the story

New York is moving on up!!

New York Just Showed Every Other State How to Do Solar Right

"This is as exciting as the Public Service Commission gets."

—Tim McDonnell on Fri. March 6, 2015 7:30 AM PDT

Jose Campos/ZUMA

New York wants to get serious about solar power. The state has a goal to cut its greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050, and it's already among the nation's solar leaders. New York ranks ninth overall for total installed solar, and in 2013 alone it added enough to power more than 10,000 homes.

While that's great news for solar companies and environmentalists, it's a bit of a problem for electric utilities. Until recently, the business model of electric companies hadn't changed much since it was created a century ago. (The country's first electric grid was strung up by Thomas Edison in Manhattan's Lower East Side in the 1880s, and some parts of it continued to operate into the 2000s.) Utilities have depended on a steady growth in demand to stay ahead of the massive investments required to build power plants and the electric grid. But now, that tradition is crumbling—thanks to the crazy growth of rooftop solar and other alternative energy sources and some big advances in energy efficiency that have caused the overall demand for electricity to stop growing. Meanwhile, utilities in New York are also required to buy the excess power from solar buildings that produce more than they need—a policy called "net metering".

But here's the thing: Even the most ardent climate hawks agree that we can't afford for utilities to go out of business altogether. Someone needs to maintain and manage the grid. Hardly any solar homes are actually "off the grid," since they still depend on power lines to soak up their excess electricity during sunny afternoons and deliver power at night. In fact, net metering is a key factor in making solar economically viable to homeowners.

The question of how to aggressively slash carbon emissions without completely undermining the power sector (and simultaneously raising the risk of blackouts and skyrocketing electric bills) is one of the big existential questions that climate-savvy lawmakers are now trying to figure out. And last week in New York, they took a huge step forward.

Under a new order from the state's Public Service Commission, utility companies will soon be barred from owning "distributed" power systems—that means rooftop solar, small wind turbines, and basically anything else that isn't a big power plant. (There are some rare exceptions built into the order, notably for giant low-income apartment buildings in New York City that small solar companies aren't well-equipped to serve.)

"By restricting utilities from owning local power generation and other energy resources, customers will benefit from a more competitive market, with utilities working and partnering with other companies and service providers," the commission said in a statement.

The move is part of a larger package of energy reforms in the state, aimed at setting up the kind of futuristic power system that experts think will be needed to combat global warming. The first step came in 2007, when the state adopted "decoupling," a market design in which a utility's revenue is based not on how much power it sells, but on how many customers it serves. (Remember that in most states utilities have their income stream heavily regulated by the state in exchange for having a monopoly.) That change removed the incentive for utilities to actively block rooftop solar and energy-saving technology, because lost sales no longer translate to lost income. But because utilities could still make money by recouping the cost of big infrastructure projects through increases to their customers' bills, they had an incentive to build expensive stuff like power plants and big transmission hubs even if demand could be better met with efficiency and renewables.

Now, under New York's most recent reform, a utility's revenue will instead be based on how efficiently and effectively it distributes power, so-called "performance-based rates." This, finally, provides the incentive utilities need to make decisions that jibe with the state's climate goals, because it will be to their advantage to make use of distributed energy systems.

But there's a catch, one that had clean energy advocates in the state worried. If utilities were allowed to buy their own solar systems, they would be able to leverage their government-granted monopoly to muscle-out smaller companies. This could limit consumer options, drive up prices, and stifle innovation. That, in turn, could put a freeze on consumers' interest in solar and ultimately slow down the rate at which it is adopted. But if small companies are allowed in, then the energy market starts to look more like markets for normal goods, where customer choice drives technological advances and pushes down prices.

"New York's approach to limit utility ownership balances the desire for more solar with the desire to have competitive markets that we expect to continue to bring down the costs of solar," said Anne Reynolds, director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York.

The upshot is that solar in New York will be allowed to thrive without being squeezed out by incumbent giants like Con Edison and National Grid.

"This is as exciting as the Public Service Commission gets," said Raya Salter, an attorney with the Natural Resources Defense Council in New York who worked with state regulators on the plan. "These are bold, aggressive changes."

The policy puts New York on track for a new way of doing business that many energy wonks now see as inevitable. In the past, the role of electric utilities was to generate power at a few central hubs and bring it to your house; in the near future, their role will be to facilitate the flow of power between countless independent systems.

"We need to plan for a primarily renewable system," said John Farrell, director of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, which advocates for breaking up the old utility model as a key solution to climate change. "We want to pay [utilities] for doing things we want, rather than paying for their return on investment for the things they build."

So far, the response from utilities has been receptive; a spokesperson for Con Ed said the company looks forward to developing details for how the order will move forward.

The change in New York could become a model for other states, Reynolds said. Regulators in Hawaii are already considering a similar policy.

"Everyone is watching to see what's happening here," she said. "It's really a model of what a utility could be in the future." 

Another happy solar customer. Marion's panels are producing clean, green electricity in these wintery days up North in Olmstedville!

This is a photo of the world’s first solar array. It is based on gold coated Selenium at roughly 1% efficiency. It was built by Charles Fritts in 1884 and installed on a New York City rooftop.

Special Congrats to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for going Green in Greenwich, NY.

Monolith Solar Associates and NYSUT partnership achieves milestone

December 02, 2014

Caption: Solar panels on the roof of NYSUT headquarters in Latham. Photo by El-Wise Noisette.

LATHAM, NEW YORK - After forming a beneficial partnership that has resulted in solar panel systems at NYSUT locations across the state, Monolith Solar Associates and the New York State United Teachers are proud to announce a major milestone in the energy-saving project; the completed installation of a 200-kilowatt solar system at NYSUT headquarters.

Monolith Solar, in partnership with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), supplied the necessary investment capital for the installation of statewide systems ranging from the Buffalo and Syracuse regional offices to Potsdam and Williamsville. Plans are underway for solar at NYSUT's Rochester, Utica and Kingston regional offices.

• RELATED ARTICLE: NYSUT headquarters in Latham goes solar
• PHOTO GALLERY: Solar panel installation at NYSUT headquarters

The system at NYSUT's flagship location will result in immediate savings on energy bills in the first year of operation. Those savings will increase yearly as utilities companies rates continue to rise. Under the installation agreement, Monolith Solar will save NYSUT more than $70,000 over the next 20 years at their headquarters alone.

New York State United Teachers is a statewide union with more than 600,000 members in education, human services and health care.

"This initiative embodies NYSUT's commitment to energy conservation and vigilant stewardship of resources," said NYSUT President Karen E. Magee, noting that is responsive to resolutions passed by the unions policy-making representative assembly.

"Our members are individuals who dedicate themselves to a life of service," said Martin Messner, NYSUT secretary-treasurer. "By making the decision to go solar with Monolith, we will see immediate reductions in our energy costs, and those savings will continue for years to come, ensuring that additional resources are allocated to supporting our members."

"First, we'd like to thank NYSUT for providing unrivaled support for these valued members of community who make such a significant difference daily," said Mark Fobare, President and CEO of Monolith Solar Associates. "For an organization with such an expansive footprint across New York State that includes several locations, rising energy costs present a huge issue."

"Thanks to the new solar panel installations, NYSUT is able to look forward to reaping the benefits of lower energy costs for decades. We commend their forward-thinking decision to go solar, showing their organization is both on the cutting edge of technology, and personally invested in utilizing their funding to further their mission."

"As we approach the winter months, many organizations are already deducting much-needed funds from their budget in order to merely light and heat their facilities," said Steven Erby, Vice President of Monolith Solar Associates. "Our commercial solar panel programs are truly for everyone, and our priority is raising awareness about the overwhelming positive effect solar can have on the bottom line."

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About Monolith Solar Associates: Founded in 2008, Monolith Solar Associates provides solar solutions to a wide variety of private and public institutions and individuals. Today, the company's projects together generate over 10MM kilowatt-hours of renewable energy each year, enough to power 2,000 homes.

About NYSUT: NYSUT is more than 600,000 people who work in, or are retired from, New York's schools, colleges, and healthcare facilities. We are classroom teachers, college and university faculty and professional staff, school bus drivers, custodians, secretaries, cafeteria workers, teacher assistants and aides, nurses and healthcare technicians.

A picture from our holiday party this weekend! Wishing everyone a happy #HappyHolidays - Monolith Solar family

New Revolution in Solar Panels

Check out our NEW Trina Smart Panels ... it's time to take full advantage of the SUN!!

First tech tenant on campus promises jobs, economic boost

Monolith Solar Co-founders, from left, Mark Fobare and Steven Erby at the announcement of the company’s new headquarters moving to the Vista Technology Campus in Slingerlands. Also pictured are Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Kenneth Adams and Colombia Development President Joe Nicolla.

Governor Cuomo Announces Monolith Solar to Expand Operations in Vista Technology Campus

Expansion Will Allow Company to Increase Production to Meet Customer Demand and Create 76 New Jobs

Albany, NY (October 15, 2014 )

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced Monolith Solar, which delivers best-in-class engineering, design and installation of solar energy modules for residential, commercial and non-profit customers, is expanding its operations in the Capital Region. The company will build its new headquarters, and research and development and manufacturing facility in the Vista Technology Campus in Slingerlands. This high-growth project will retain 49 existing jobs and create 76 new jobs in the region. In addition, Monolith will install a solar farm adjacent to its new facility, producing enough electricity to power the majority of the tech park.

"Monolith's decision to expand in the Capital Region is another example of how our focus on the upstate economy is translating into jobs and new opportunities in the region," Governor Cuomo said. "Upstate New York is a prime location for high-tech companies like Monolith that want to grow and thrive, and with this expansion project the region is continuing to move forward as a hub for clean energy technologies. I am proud that our team was able to play a role in making this expansion project a reality, and I look forward to seeing it drive the local economy well into the future."

Monolith will construct and outfit a 16,000 square foot building in the tech park that will house its headquarters and back office operations, as well as a connected 10,000 square foot research and development and manufacturing facility. The $4.9 million expansion will include the purchase of machinery and equipment and employee training, and allow Monolith to meet increased customer demand.  As part of the expansion, Monolith will also incorporate a 10 acre solar farm featuring approximately 6,700 solar panels, which will produce approximately two megawatts of power. The farm is in addition to the solar wall that will be located on the headquarters building. Solar features on Monolith's facility will generate approximately 400 kilowatts of power. High-resolution renderings of the Monolith expansion are available HERE.

"Monolith Solar was born in New York, has thrived in New York and now, we're expanding in New York," said Mark Fobare, Co-Founder and CEO of Monolith Solar. "Our business has grown from an operation in the garage of Steven Erby, my fellow Co-Founder, to a multi-regional leader in the high-tech sector, and this new, built-to-suit headquarters will allow us to continue to grow. This wouldn't have been possible without Governor Cuomo's commitment to economic development and growing renewable energy in New York. State initiatives make keeping our business and the dozens of high-tech jobs in New York an easy decision."

To support the expansion project, Empire State Development is providing the company with a $400,000 grant and $400,000 in Excelsior Jobs Program performance based tax credits, which are tied directly to job creation and investment commitments.  In addition, Monolith has met with the Town IDA staff and intends to submit an application for IDA benefits.  

Columbia Development is the developer of Vista, a 440-acre mixed-use site positioned in the heart of Tech Valley, with proximity to I-90, I-787, the  College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering and GE Global Research. Located in the Town of Bethlehem, Vista offers a wide range of first-class office and retail space and a location that makes it easy to work more efficiently and for companies to grow.

Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Kenneth Adams said, "The Capital Region is a well-known hub for the high-tech industry and Monolith will add to this growth.  ESD's support will result in creation of 76 new, good-paying jobs in the community and spur future investment in the tech park."

Joseph R. Nicolla, President of Columbia Development, said, "We are proud to welcome Monolith Solar to the Vista Technology Campus. We had companies like Monolith in mind when we first began planning Vista, and I know Governor Cuomo's economic development initiatives were crafted with the intent of supporting and retaining these high-tech, alternative energy enterprises."

Senator Neil Breslin said, "The expansion of Monolith Solar is further proof that New York is committed to helping clean-tech industries flourish and expand their operations. These are the types of businesses that will help our economy continue to grow in the 21st century and I am thrilled to see that Monolith Solar will expand their headquarters right here in the Capital Region."

Assemblywoman Patricia Fahy said, "This is just the type of local business development we need on multiple fronts; Monolith Solar will be creating good paying jobs with career ladder opportunities in the renewable energy field. It's exactly what's needed in order to achieve long term environmental sustainability. This is the future and I commend the Town of Bethlehem for their leadership in bringing Monolith to Vista Park."

Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said, "I am proud to have been involved in the discussions, not only to keep Monolith Solar in New York State, but to relocate their headquarters here to the town of Bethlehem. 76 new jobs are being created and this new facility is being built with growth in mind.  That is a signal of a brighter future."

Bethlehem Town Supervisor John Clarkson said, "After years of planning, we are very excited to welcome Monolith Solar to Vista. This is the type of technology business that we want to attract, and I hope that this is the first of many announcements of this type."

Town of Bethlehem IDA Thomas P. Connolly said, "This is great news for the Town of Bethlehem. Monolith Solar is the type of technology tenant envisioned for Vista. I know the IDA is excited to review their application and I look forward to working with them in the future."

About Monolith Solar Associates

Founded in 2009, Monolith Solar Associates provides solar solutions to a wide variety of private and public institutions and individuals. Today, the company's projects together generate 9.6 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy each year, enough to power 1,200 homes, or the equivalent of 23 rail cars of coal from being burned annually.