The Vanderbilt Park co-op has just completed its 10.18 kilowatt solar array, which is the largest array in the neighborhood according the NYC Solar Map.  

The array provides green energy for approximately 85% of the power used in the co-op's common areas, as well as 100% of the power for one of the units in the building.  With federal and municipal rebates, the payback period is just over three years.  Being located in a landmarked district was an additional complication during construction, as the array was not allowed to be visible from the street, but Bret Heilig, the CEO of Fiveboro Solar as well as a resident of the co-op, embraced the challenge. 

"Putting solar where I live and work was a special project for me," he said. "We have local food and local beer in Brooklyn. Why not local power?"