KINGSTON, N.Y., Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Kingston, N.Y.-based Solar Energy Consortium would get $1.5 million in congressionally approved funding for solar power.

The non-profit said it will use the money to bring in a new manufacturing partner for the Hudson Valley area.

"That will grow the consortium as a whole and help strengthen the Hudson Valley's identity as the go-to place for solar energy," said Rep. Maurice Hinchey, D-N.Y.

The comments were reported by the Times Herald-Record.

President Bush is expected to sign the bill containing the funds into law in the coming days.

"The potential for this solar consortium is virtually unlimited. The Solar Energy Consortium will revitalize and strengthen New York's economy, make our state the leader in renewable energy research and development, and help solve the very serious problem of global warming," Hinchey said, according to the paper. "TSEC is truly a win for everyone: We will create thousands upon thousands of new jobs and save the planet at the same time."