Solar Panels to Drastically Reduce Bellmore Businessman's Electric Bills

Bellmore resident and business owner Michael R. Sumersille recently partnered with The Long Island Power Authority and EmPower Solar to install a 117kW solar panel installation system on the roof of his New Hyde Park-based construction and renovation company.

The system, will help Piece Management, Inc. reduce CO2 emissions by over 92 tons over the course of a year, which was made possible through LIPA's Solar Entrepreneur Program.

According to a LIPA press release, the new PV system will reduce PMI's electric bill by 75 percent annually, while "continuing to reap significant environmental benefits which equal planting 2,200 trees or removing 17 cars from our local roads annually." Upon completion of the solar panel installation, Piece Management will be one of Long Island's largest solar producers.

"Not long ago, 'going green' was a movement we only read about," said Sumersille, president of Piece Management. "Thankfully, today, most of us have wised up and joined the cause, and in fact, Piece Management has spent the past year pursuing the road to green. Environmental responsibility is an ongoing and long-standing commitment for all and a cornerstone of Piece Management's philosophy."

LIPA provided a $237,563 rebate for the $734,000 PV system, which dramatically reduced out-of-pocket expenses for the renovation and construction company. Additionally, PMI may be able eligible for federal and state tax incentives to help further offset costs.

"I am proud to partner with Piece Management Inc. and EmPower Solar on the largest commercial solar installation under our nationally recognized solar programs," said LIPA President and CEO Kevin S. Law. "Projects like this one demonstrate my commitment to Long Island and LIPA's customers to invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency, to reduce our carbon footprint, and to stimulate the local economy by creating new clean energy jobs."

(Editor's Note: The president of Piece Management Inc., Michael Sumersille, is the editor's father-in-law.)