Following is a statement from Rick Umoff, Director of State Affairs for the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), in response to todays remarks by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in his 2016 State of the State:

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Following is a statement from Rick Umoff, Director of State Affairs for the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), in response to todays remarks by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in his 2016 State of the State:

"Once again, Governor Cuomo is leading by example, and we applaud both his efforts and his long-term vision for New York.

"Under Gov. Cuomos leadership, solar capacity in New York has grown by over 200 percent and the state has launched key policies - such as the 50 percent renewable energy mandate - that attract investment, while improving the states environment at the same time.

"Todays pledge to expand the states solar training program and convert 150,000 homes and businesses to solar by 2020 will bring needed jobs and clean, affordable energy to even more Americans - further cementing the Empire State as a true American example of clean energy success."


About SEIA®:

Celebrating its 41st anniversary in 2015, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies to champion the use of clean, affordable solar in America by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.