270 MW Solar Electric Generating Facility to Bring Over $16 Million to Local Economy
Twelve Large-Scale Renewable Energy Projects Approved by ORES Since 2021
The New York State Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES or Office) issued a final siting permit for ConnectGen Chautauqua County LLC’s South Ripley Solar to develop, design, construct, operate, maintain, and decommission a 270-megawatt (MW) solar electric generating facility including a 20 MW battery energy storage system in the Town of Ripley, Chautauqua County.
This solar facility is expected to generate enough clean energy to power over 60,000 New York homes and reduce carbon emissions by over 280,000 metric tons, which is equivalent to taking nearly 65,000 cars off the road. This project and other major renewable energy facilities permitted and currently under ORES review are vital to meet the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act’s (CLCPA) aggressive carbon reduction and clean energy targets to combat climate change.
The Office’s decision for this facility follows a timely, detailed and transparent review process with robust public participation to ensure the proposed project meets or exceeds the requirements of Executive Law § 94-c and its implementing regulations.
Office of Renewable Energy Siting Executive Director Houtan Moaveni said, “The announcement today is another example of the State's continued commitment to supporting regional economic development and creating jobs. The Office remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders throughout the development of all major renewable energy facilities across the State.”
This solar facility is expected to provide over $16 million in the first 20 years to the counties, towns and school districts in in the form of payment-in-lieu of taxes (PILOT) and host community agreements to invest in infrastructure, additional services, and resources for residents in the communities hosting the facility. Further, this solar facility is expected to spur about $380 million in capital investment and create over 250 short and long-term jobs.