Finger Lakes Times op-ed on solar energy proposal in NY

Summary:

New York’s Solar Up Now New York (SUNNY) Act (S8512C / A9111C) legalizes plug-in "balcony solar" panels, removes utility red tape, and expands clean energy access for renters. The bill passed both the New York State Assembly and State Senate on May 28, 2026, and is currently awaiting Gov. Kathy Hochul's signature. 

According to the current New York State Assembly directory:

Brian Manktelow — Assembly District 130, Jeff Gallahan — Assembly District 131, Phil Palmesano — Assembly District 132, Andrea Bailey — Assembly District 133 

So, the four Assembly members represent four consecutive districts 130, 131, 132, and 133, covering a broad stretch of the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes region.

This is particularly relevant to the Finger Lakes Times column because the author pointed out that all four local Republican Assembly members voted against the SUNNY Act, while the New York State Senate passed the measure unanimously, 62-0. https://www.eany.org/news/eany-statement-on-assembly-passage-of-the-sunny-act

This bill is something that I, Phillip Fleming, support.

John Gilbert argues that Gov. Kathy Hochul should sign the SUNNY Act, legislation that would allow New Yorkers to use small, plug-in solar panel systems connected to standard household electrical outlets.

The author highlights several potential benefits:

Greater access to solar energy: Plug-in or "balcony" solar could make solar power available to renters, apartment and condominium residents, and homeowners who cannot install rooftop systems.

Lower electric bills: Depending on the size of the system and sunlight exposure, households could potentially save up to about $50 per month, particularly in New York, where electricity costs are high.

Consumer choice: The legislation would prevent utilities from interfering with customers' use of approved plug-in solar systems.

Growing adoption: Gilbert points to Germany, where he says approximately 10% of households have adopted such systems, as well as U.S. states including Virginia, Utah, and Maine that have enacted similar policies.

Potential economic benefits: The author suggests that systems costing several hundred to more than $1,000 could potentially pay for themselves in roughly two years, while increased adoption could eventually drive prices down.

Gilbert acknowledges legitimate safety concerns, particularly the possibility of electricity flowing back into the grid during outages, risks involving ground-fault interrupters, electrical shocks, and fire hazards. He notes that the legislation requires independent safety certification and argues that these concerns can be addressed, pointing to Germany's experience as evidence.

The column also becomes political, criticizing local Assembly members Gallahan, Manktelow, Palmesano, and Bailey for voting against the legislation. Gilbert says he attempted to get an explanation from Gallahan but received no response. He questions whether their opposition was based on substantive concerns or opposition to solar energy more broadly.

Bottom Line:

Gilbert's central argument is that the SUNNY Act would democratize access to solar energy by giving ordinary New Yorkers—especially those who cannot install rooftop panels—an affordable way to reduce their electricity bills and participate in the transition to renewable energy. He believes Gov. Hochul has an opportunity to demonstrate environmental leadership by signing the bill, provided appropriate safety standards are maintained.

Sources:

https://www.fltimes.com/opinion/guest-appearance-a-sunny-proposal/article

https://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09111&term=&Summary=Y&Actions=Y&Votes=Y&Memo=Y&Text=Y

Posted on 02 Aug 2026, 17:48 - Category: News