As New York City stands on the cusp of a transformative clean energy revolution, the New York Solar Energy Industries Association (NYSEIA) has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap for Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani to dramatically accelerate solar and energy storage initiatives in the metropolitan landscape.

Just days before the holiday season, NYSEIA released a groundbreaking 'playbook' detailing ten strategic recommendations that could radically reshape the city's renewable energy infrastructure. The proposals aim to lower electricity bills, improve urban air quality, and enhance citywide resilience through innovative solar and storage solutions.

At the heart of the recommendations is an ambitious target to raise NYC's solar capacity to 2 gigawatts by 2035 and energy storage to 2 gigawatts by 2030. The organization also supports the Accelerate Solar for Affordable Power (ASAP) Act, which would elevate New York's statewide solar goals, signaling a bold commitment to sustainable urban development.

Key policy suggestions include aligning the New York City Fire Code with state regulations to facilitate safe residential battery installations, supporting state legislation to make solar property tax abatements refundable for nonprofits and income-restricted housing, and creating innovative pathways for buildings to comply with Local Law 97 through solar and storage credits.

The playbook also calls for practical administrative improvements, such as expediting electrical inspections through self-certification options, expanding Department of Buildings and Fire Department staffing, and streamlining permitting processes for community battery systems. Additionally, NYSEIA recommends engaging Con Edison to provide transparent access to the electric distribution system for battery energy storage systems.

Perhaps most importantly, the recommendations emphasize scaling solar and storage on public buildings while launching robust educational programs to assist building owners, renters, and homeowners in adopting cost-effective clean energy solutions. This holistic approach demonstrates a commitment not just to infrastructure, but to community engagement and environmental literacy.

As New York City looks toward a greener future, Mayor-Elect Mamdani's administration has a clear, actionable pathway to position the city as a national leader in urban renewable energy transformation.