Assemblymember Cahill Fights to Protect Hudson Valley Solar Funds from Budget Ax

February 4, 2009

Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D – Ulster, Dutchess), Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee, announced that the $5 million in economic development funding specifically dedicated to attracting the solar industry to the Hudson Valley was not cut as a part of the Deficit Reduction Plan that passed last night. Mr. Cahill fought to secure this money in the 2008-2009 State Budget and is now encouraging its immediate release.

"In order to get our economy moving again, we must continue our commitment to invest in green jobs," said Mr. Cahill. "Solar power is going to play a critical role in our energy future and economic development in our region. I look forward to partnering with Governor Paterson and entities like The Solar Energy Consortium to make sure this funding is dedicated quickly and effectively."

“In this economic environment, the solar industry is going to go to where the money is, so the quicker we get these funds out the door, the faster we can begin creating good, green jobs, in Ulster County and throughout the Hudson Valley,” stated Vince Cozzolino, CEO of The Solar Energy Consortium.

“We can’t afford to wait for the Federal stimulus package, we need to act now,” said Mr. Cahill. “The funding is already in place, it is time to start using it so we can get people back to work.”

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