Intro
This page provides a brief summary of solar options for the local Kirkland and Clinton area. A good overview and guide to solar within New York State is from NYSERDA: https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/NY-Sun
Another good source of information is the Cornell Cooperative Mohawk Valley energy hub: https://www.mohawkvalleyenergychoices.org/
Rooftop or Ground-Mounted Solar
If you own a home, business, or multifamily property, you can generate your own affordable clean energy by installing rooftop or ground-mounted solar at your property. Solar can lower your electric bill, reduce your carbon footprint, and even increase your property value.
Of the three options shown here, this provides the most power and provides the biggest impact on lowering your electricity bill, but is also the most expensive option. To counter this, there are incentives, tax credits, and low-cost loans to help offset the cost (See here for details). It typically requires a licensed contractor for installation and electrical work.
Installation often requires a permit from local authorities. To apply for a solar installation permit in the Town of Kirkland, NY, you must submit an application through the Town of Kirkland Planning Office located at Lumbard Hall. The town utilizes the expedited New York State Unified Solar Permit process for qualifying residential and small commercial projects. The Village of Clinton has a similar process. If you live within the Clinton Historic district, you likely also need approval from that Commission.
When paired with battery storage system, it’s possible to protect against power outages, and to have a source of power even when the sun isn’t shining.
There are numerous contractors who can install solar and guide you through the process. A tool to find certified contractors is at: https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/NY-Sun/On-site-Solar/Homes/Choosing-a-Contractor/Residential-Installers
Community Solar
When you can’t install rooftop solar because you’re in a rental unit, condo, or nearby trees or unsuitable rooftop orientation make it impossible, community solar can provide some of the benefits.
Community solar projects generate renewable energy on behalf of multiple customers, who receive credits on their monthly electric bills for their share of the clean electricity that’s produced.
As a client of one of the community solar firms which work with National Grid and still have subscriptions available for Kirkland residents, you will receive at 10% rebate on your National Grid bills. Certain income-eligible residents may qualify for a 15% rebate.
Here are several companies that, as of early August, 2026, still have subscriptions available for our region. This search tool from NYSERDA finds companies that currently have subscriptions available.
Plug-in Solar
Plug-in solar uses one or two small solar panels that hang on a balcony, front porch, wall, or may be mounted on the ground. It plugs into a standard wall outlet, no electrician or permit required. It provides a relatively small amount of energy, but helps to lower your electricity bill. The cost is relatively modest, perhaps a few hundred dollars. In addition a battery may be attached, so that power can be supplied at night. In NY, the maximum output would be limited to 1200 W.
A good overall source of information is: https://www.brightsaver.org/about
The New York Legislature has approved a bill to make plug-in solar legal in New York, but as of August, 2026 the Governor has not signed this bill. Even if she does, it will require appropriate regulations to be enacted before it becomes legal.