The New York Power Authority is offering subsidies for half the cost of installing solar panels.
NYPA says it can probably help fund 50 to 80 solar photovoltaic systems as large as 10 kilowatts for businesses and residences.
Authority spokeswoman Christine Pritchard says there's an estimated $2 million for the program and residential solar energy systems typically cost $25,000 to $50,000.
The subsidies will be offered through 51 municipal electrical systems and rural cooperatives. The eligible utilities, all customers of NYPA low-cost hydropower, are in the Southern Tier, western New York, northern New York and Long Island.
The agency expects to review applications by the end of the year.