Peekskill, NY - New York State Senator Pete Harckham announced today that he has secured more than $300,000 for solar energy projects in the towns of Lewisboro, North Salem and Patterson. The projects are designed to generate clean energy and are expected to save taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars in spending.

“Investing in solar power isn’t just a smart environmental choice—it’s a strategic economic decision,” Harckham said. “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 businesses and homeowners build a more sustainable future.”

Harckham delivered $100,000 for each of the three towns.

The Town of Patterson will install solar panels and heat pumps for a new 2,400-square-foot EMS building. The Town has also received a State and Municipal Facilities Capital Program grant for $100,000 for the general construction of the building. The building will include bays for vehicle storage, sleeping quarters and administrative offices. 

“We are excited that the new home for Patterson’s ambulance service will include solar panels and other energy efficient improvements thanks to funding provided by Senator Harckham,” Town Supervisor Richard Williams said.  “These improvements will reduce the buildings’ dependency on NYSEG electricity and save tax dollars.”

North Salem plans to build a solar panel installation on the roof of its Highway Department garage, the optimal site for such an installation, which is expected to generate 168,499 kWh per year, enough energy 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,” Town Supervisor Warren Lucas said. “Solar energy presents a promising avenue for meeting the town's energy needs, while reducing its carbon impact.”

The Town of Lewisboro is planning a solar panel installation at Onatru Farm Park. The 56 panel, 24.36 kW DC system will be installed on an existing former barn and is estimated to produce 32,430 kWh/year. With the CREST grant, Federal Tax Credit and NYSERDA NY-Sun incentive the cost to the Town is estimated to be just $5,700. It is expected that the Town will recoup those costs in just one year from the savings of solar power generation. 

“I want to thank Senator Harckham for securing this important grant for the Town of Lewisboro,” Town Supervisor Tony Goncalves said. “This key investment will enable us to reduce the amount of electricity used by the town and thus lower our operating costs, and save residents money, as a result.”

The projects were funded through the Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability, and Technology (CREST) program. Harckham has secured $35 million in capital grants for the towns, cities and villages across Senate District 40 through CREST, the Local Community Assistance Program (LOCAP) and State Aid to Municipalities (SAM) grants since taking office in 2019.