County license waived for solar contractors

The Westchester County Board of Legislators has eased licensing requirements for contractors installing solar energy systems at homes and businesses in the county.

Legislators this month approved a bill that relieves solar panel and solar heating installers and contractors from obtaining a county home improvement license before doing work. Those Westchester licenses carry a biannual fee of $300.

Solar installers still will need certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

The legislation, when signed into law by County Executive Robert P. Astorino, will allow licensed electricians and plumbers in Westchester who also have NABCEP certification to offer financial incentives for solar installations.