This week, Nassau County and the New York Power Authority (NYPA) announced a partnership that would save taxpayer money by lowering energy costs through energy efficiency and clean energy projects.

The first project announced was the installation of an 80 kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) project at Nassau County Public Safety Center. NYPA estimates this project will lower greenhouse gas emissions by 46.8 tons or 93,548 pounds annually.

"This is an exciting beginning to a journey to make Nassau County more efficient and energy independent," said newly elected Nassau County Executive, Ed Mangano. "It will save taxpayer dollars and help lower power plant emissions."

NYPA will also be giving the county a $812,000 grant for the installation of LED (light-emitting diode) energy efficient lighting technology in county-owned traffic signals. The $8.75 million project, affecting more than 1,300 intersections located throughout the county, is expected to commence this summer and be completed by Spring or Summer 2011. The county estimates the savings in energy, parts and labor costs to be almost $1.1 million annually.

To learn about other steps Long Island governments can take to improve energy conservation, check out the NYLCV Education Fund's 2010 Long Island Policy Agenda.