Solar PV Will Cool New York Hockey Arena

Albany County is partnering with NYSERDA, which is providing $240,000 for the project, and ETM Solar Works will install the 40 kW solar-electric system on the roof of the facility.

"The use of alternative energy sources, such as the PV system being installed at our ice rink, is a wise investment that will reduce our reliance on traditional energy sources," Michael Breslin, who is the County Executive for Albany, said. "The implementation of this renewable system will save energy and protect our environment, while resulting in cost-savings to our taxpayers."

The Albany County Hockey Facility PV system will be installed on its roof, and will be one of the largest PV systems in New York State. It is expected to offset 40,300 kWh of conventionally generated electricity usage annually. An additional 22,000 kWh of interactive energy savings will be realized as a result of the shading effect of the PV system, which will reduce the heat radiated through the roof onto the ice rink. When the system is fully installed, educational and site tours will be available for the public, school groups and interested business and government entities so they can increase their knowledge and awareness of solar energy.

"NYSERDA provided the County with the financial and technical incentive to take another step towards increasing the energy efficiency of our facilities," Breslin said.