The Solar Up Now New York (SUNNY) Act was recently passed in New York State.

The legislation exempts small-scale balcony or plug-in solar from interconnection and net metering requirements. It prohibits utilities from requiring customers to obtain approval for using such a device or paying any related fee.

This is a big deal because until now, millions of apartment dwellers have effectively been excluded from participating in the solar energy movement. If you rent, live in a multifamily building, or don’t own a suburban roof (like most of us in NYC), options have been limited.

This paradigm shift — from centralized to distributed, from expert-driven to citizen-enabled “Power in Our Hands!”— is what makes this story so exciting.

The bill is awaiting Governor Hochul’s signature.

06.27.26

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This post is an entry in Creative Toolbox • A Visual Diary where we share reflections — inspirations, insights, fun facts, or tips — gleaned from our spirited journey through the worlds of branding, marketing, presentation, and design.