Spatial Analysis
We used advanced mapping tools to identify potential sites for large rooftop, ground-mounted, and carport solar — while avoiding important farmland, natural areas, and other places that are inappropriate for development. We compared these low-impact sites with current grid capacity to identify where new projects could go online now and where grid modifications would be needed to utilize additional solar resources.
Economic Research
We characterized the direct and indirect economic costs and benefits of solar development to the region, including jobs and other impacts the local economy, environmental and health benefits, and potential reduction in energy costs for low- to moderate-income (LMI) communities.
Social Science Research
Our social Science team conducted a survey of residential utility ratepayers that examined their perceptions, preferences, and priorities concerning mid- to large-scale solar development on Long Island (250 kW and larger). The survey asked respondents to consider specific installation types, financial models, and other aspects of solar development. Results of the survey have been published in two peer-reviewed journals:
The December 2019 issue of The Electricity Journal
The October 2020 special issue of the open access journal Energies