The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has announced two agreements to explore the feasibility of developing renewable energy projects on underutilized sites in the Southern Tier and Western New York.
These memorandums of understanding (MOUs) involve collaborating with Tompkins County and Niagara County to assess the potential of a landfill and unused land surrounding an active airport for renewable energy projects.
Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (Tompkins County)
NYSERDA and Tompkins County have signed an MOU to evaluate the potential for a solar and battery energy storage system on a 67-acre area northeast of the airport runways. This project aligns with the airport’s sustainability goals and Ithaca’s Green New Deal plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
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Witmer Road Landfill (Niagara County)
The second MOU involves NYSERDA, Niagara County, the County of Niagara Refuse Trust, and the Town of Wheatfield. They will explore the feasibility of developing a solar project on the 60-acre Witmer Road Landfill, which has been capped and closed since 1976. This aligns with the county’s goal of utilizing landfills and brownfields for solar energy generation.
Building a Greener Future Through Collaboration
These MOUs will enable NYSERDA’s Build-Ready Program to conduct further due diligence and community engagement to evaluate the potential of these sites. If deemed feasible and accepted by the local communities, NYSERDA will initiate development activities, including detailed engineering, interconnection, and permitting.
Statewide Momentum for Renewable Energy Development
This announcement represents significant progress towards New York’s goal of generating 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. It also aligns with the State’s Accelerated Renewable Energy Growth and Community Benefit Act.
Supporting Quotes
Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of NYSERDA, emphasized the importance of the Build-Ready Program in accelerating large-scale renewable energy projects and stimulating economic growth. Senator Kevin Parker highlighted the importance of these agreements in achieving the state’s renewable energy goals and revitalizing communities.
Chair of Tompkins County Legislature Dan Kelin expressed enthusiasm for the project and its potential to support New York’s vision for a greener future. Marguerite Wells, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, praised NYSERDA’s efforts in removing barriers to renewable energy development. Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, emphasized the need for innovative approaches like the Build-Ready Program to achieve the state’s ambitious climate goals.
New York’s Nation-Leading Climate Plan
New York State is committed to a just and orderly transition to a green economy, with a focus on directing clean energy investments to disadvantaged communities. The state is advancing various initiatives, including the New York Cap-and-Invest program, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040.
NYSERDA’s Role
NYSERDA plays a crucial role in supporting New Yorkers to increase energy efficiency, save money, and utilize renewable energy. Through partnerships and innovative programs, NYSERDA is working towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for the state.
Call for Site Nominations
The Build-Ready Program is actively seeking potential sites for renewable energy development. Interested parties, including community members, elected officials, private companies, and environmental justice communities, are encouraged to nominate sites through the program’s Site Nomination Portal.