The Solar Energy Power Association (SEPA) recently named Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation among the top ten investor-owned utilities in support of solar energy during 2007. Central Hudson ranked eighth nationally among investor-owned utilities in total solar electric capacity installed by its customers, and fifth nationally in installed solar electric capacity by its customers as a percent of all customers.

“Central Hudson is working cooperatively with solar energy providers in the Hudson Valley to help meet New York State’s renewable energy targets,” said Carl E. Meyer, President and Chief Operating Officer. “We’re pleased to be recognized for our efforts, which are part of our overall efforts to help our customers manage their energy costs and create a more sustainable energy future.”

Central Hudson’s parent corporation, CH Energy Group, Inc., is actively involved in renewable energy projects outside of the Hudson Valley, including projects that produce electricity from wind, biomass and landfill gas and municipal waste. Through the state energy planning process, Central Hudson is proposing a greater utility role in developing renewable energy sources as part of their electricity procurement activities.

Currently, 296 Central Hudson customers have installed “net-metered” solar systems, with 74 additional systems pending and awaiting installation. Together, they have the potential to prevent nearly 1,600 tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually.

In 2007, Central Hudson was also honored by the New York Solar Energy Industries Association as “Utility of the Year.” For more information on Central Hudson’s Net Metering program, visit www.CentralHudson.com; for information on special incentives and rebates for solar powered systems offered through the New York State Energy Research & Development Authority, visit www.PowerNaturally.org; and for more information on SEPA and to view the ranking report, visit www.solarelectricpower.org.

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