Sen. Harckham secures funding for solar projects in Lewisboro and North Salem

Investing in solar power isn’t just a smart environmental choice—it’s a strategic economic decision.”

Sen. Peter Harckham

LEWISBORO, N.Y. - New York State Senator Pete Harckham announced earlier this month that he has secured more than $300,000 in state funding to support new solar energy initiatives in the towns of Lewisboro, North Salem, and Patterson, with each municipality receiving $100,000. The projects will help generate clean, renewable power and save local taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars in long-term energy costs.

“Investing in solar power isn’t just a smart environmental choice—it’s a strategic economic decision,” said Harckham. “Solar energy reduces monthly utility bills, increases property value, and offers tax savings. It’s a practical solution that delivers long-term savings while helping communities build a more sustainable future.”

In North Salem, the town plans to install solar panels on the roof of its Highway Department garage—the optimal site for maximizing sunlight and efficiency. The installation is projected to generate 168,499 kWh of power per year, enough to cover the majority of the town’s electricity needs.

“The Town Board is evaluating various sustainable energy solutions for North Salem, amidst growing environmental concerns and the need for clean renewable energy sources,” said Town Supervisor Warren Lucas. “Solar energy presents a promising avenue for meeting the town's energy needs while reducing its carbon impact.”

In Lewisboro, solar panels will soon be installed on a barn at Onatru Farm Park, where a 56-panel, 24.36 kW DC system is expected to produce about 32,430 kWh annually. Thanks to the CREST grant, along with the Federal Tax Credit and NYSERDA’s NY-Sun incentive, the project will cost the town an estimated $5,700, which officials expect to recoup in just one year through energy savings.

“I want to thank Senator Harckham for securing this important grant for the Town of Lewisboro,” said Town Supervisor Tony Goncalves. “This key investment will help us lower operating costs, reduce our electricity use, and ultimately save residents money while promoting sustainability.”

Harckham also delivered $100,000 to the Town of Patterson for solar and energy-efficient improvements to its new EMS building.

The projects are funded through the Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability, and Technology (CREST) program, which Harckham created to help municipalities invest in long-term, sustainable infrastructure. Since taking office in 2019, Harckham has secured more than $35 million in capital grants for towns, cities, and villages across Senate District 40 through CREST, the Local Community Assistance Program (LOCAP), and State Aid to Municipalities (SAM) grants.

Information courtesy of the Office of Sen. Peter Harckham.