Solar electric systems, or photovoltaics (PV) have little environmental impact, making them one of the cleanest energy technologies available today.

While operating, PV systems produce no air pollution, noise pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, or hazardous waste.

The Hudson Valley region consumes electricity generated primarily by the burning of coal and other fossil fuels which releases pollutants into our air such as Sulfur Dioxide, Nitrous Oxides, fine particulates, CO₂, and Mercury.

A major by-product of fossil fuel combustion, Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) is the single biggest contributor to global warming.

Global warming is causing a rise in sea levels which will lead to a loss of coastal wetlands, erosion of shorelines, and increased flooding in coastal areas. Climate shifts due to global warming will have severe impacts on ecosystems and agriculture.

Ground level air pollution affects our environment as well as our health. Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) and Nitrous Oxides (NO_x) are known to be responsible for acid rain.

Nitrous Oxides also react with other airborne chemicals to produce ground level ozone, more commonly known as smog. Smog reduces visibility and makes it difficult for many of us and our neighbors to breathe.

Airborne Mercury settles and makes its way into our water supplies where it accumulates in the soil and in fish. Progressing up the food chain, Mercury poses a serious neurological threat to humans and animals.

The average home in New York State consumes approximately 7,300 kWh of electricity annually. The generation of this energy results in the release of approximately 1,734 tons of greenhouse gas and other pollution into our atmosphere. This is about the same as driving an SUV all year long.

The adverse effects of strip mining have been widely exposed in recent years. Coal mining operations literally blow off mountain tops to access productive veins. The millions of tons of waste is used to fill valleys and "flatten" the natural terrain. This man-made contouring of the earth's crust buries streams and river beds, clear cuts forests, causes flooding, displaces communities, and destroys countless ecosystems.