New York Approves 500-MW Cider Solar Park Project

Feb 4, 2025 12:30 PM ET
  • Experience a green revolution as Cider Solar Farm, with 500 MW capacity, powers New York's renewable energy future and drives sustainable change for cleaner skies.
New York Approves 500-MW Cider Solar Park Project

The New York Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Transmission (ORES) has approved the construction of the Cider Solar Farm, which will have a capacity of 500 megawatts. This project is developed by Hecate Energy LLC and is now owned by Greenbacker Renewable Energy Company LLC.

This green initiative aims to contribute significantly to the state's renewable energy goals. Once operational, the Cider Solar Farm is expected to generate substantial amounts of clean energy, further advancing New York's commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.

How will the Cider Solar Farm impact New York's renewable energy goals?

  • Boosting Renewable Energy Capacity: The Cider Solar Farm, with its 500 megawatt capacity, will substantially increase New York's renewable energy output, contributing to the state's ambitious target of achieving 70% renewable energy generation by 2030.
  • Job Creation: The construction and operation of the solar farm are expected to create numerous jobs, both during the building phase and in ongoing maintenance, supporting local economies and contributing to workforce development in the renewable energy sector.
  • Reduction in Carbon Footprint: By generating clean energy, the solar farm will play a crucial role in helping New York meet its climate goals, which include a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels by 2030, and a net-zero emissions goal by 2050.
  • Integration with Existing Power Infrastructure: The Cider Solar Farm will utilize existing transmission infrastructure, facilitating the efficient distribution of solar energy to the grid, thus enhancing the stability and reliability of New York’s energy supply.
  • Local Community Benefits: The project may provide financial incentives for local municipalities, including tax revenues and potential community investment initiatives, promoting economic development and enhancing local infrastructure.
  • Promotion of Energy Equity: The development of large-scale solar projects like Cider can help diversify energy access and reduce energy poverty by promoting affordable renewable energy solutions to underserved communities in New York.
  • Support for Technological Advancements: As one of the larger solar initiatives in the state, Cider Solar Farm can serve as a showcase for innovative solar technologies, encouraging further investment and development in clean energy research and improvements.
  • Alignment with State Policies: The project aligns with New York's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, emphasizing the state's commitment to advancing renewable energy as a core pillar of its climate strategy.
  • Encouraging Public and Private Partnerships: The collaboration between Hecate Energy LLC and Greenbacker Renewable Energy Company LLC exemplifies successful partnerships that can drive the growth of renewable energy projects, inspiring further investments by the private sector.
  • Enhancing Energy Security: By diversifying the energy mix through large solar installations, New York can improve its energy security, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating risks associated with energy supply disruptions.