The Gardiner Library has taken a significant step toward its sustainability goals with the completion of a new rooftop solar energy system that will reduce operating costs while generating clean, renewable electricity.

“We are pleased to announce that our solar photovoltaic system is up and running,” said Lindy Weaver, President of the Gardiner Library Board of Trustees. “A total of 129 rooftop panels have been installed and are engineered to produce more than 64,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.”

The library spent more than $12,000 on electricity in 2025. The new solar installation is expected to significantly reduce those ongoing energy costs over time, while producing pollution-free electricity from the sun.

“The completion of this project represents an investment in both the library’s future and the community,” said Library Director Nicole Lane. “By reducing our operating expenses, we can dedicate more resources to serving our patrons while also demonstrating our commitment to environmental stewardship.”

Nicole credited New York State Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha for helping make the project possible.

“When we approached Assemblymember Shrestha for assistance, she immediately understood the importance of this project and worked diligently to help us secure the funding,” Nicole added.

Through Assemblymember Shrestha’s advocacy, the library secured a $180,500 state grant to fully fund the solar energy system.

“It is only with major public investments that we can take fossil fuels off the grid, empower workers during a just transition, and reap the benefits of a clean and sustainable economy. And yet, access to installing rooftop solar still remains more challenging than one would think,” Shrestha said. “We were thrilled to hear of Gardiner Library’s plans to install solar and were able to secure a $180,500 grant to fund the project. Not only are the estimated $10,000 in annual savings significant for libraries that exist to provide a public good under strained budgets, but a strong network of distributed solar—relying on a sun that shines and roofs that already exist—can minimize our reliance on fossil fuels, cut waste and emissions, and increase grid reliability.

“As we continue to push for state policies that make it easier to switch to renewable sources of energy and decarbonize buildings, we thank the Library Board for its diligence and partnership throughout the application process.”

The solar array was designed and installed by Lighthouse Solar, based in New Paltz.