Approval Granted for Northern Franklin County Solar Facility

ALBANY — In a significant move towards bolstering New York’s clean energy infrastructure, Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Friday that the New York State Office of Renewable Energy Siting has granted a final siting permit to Brookside Solar LLC. This permit paves the way for the development, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and eventual decommissioning of a 100-megawatt solar energy facility. The facility is set to be located in the towns of Burke and Chateaugay in northern Franklin County.

Once operational, this solar facility is poised to make a substantial impact on New York’s energy landscape. It is projected to generate enough clean energy to power over 16,500 homes across the state. In terms of environmental benefits, the facility is expected to reduce carbon emissions by over 131,000 metric tons. This reduction is equivalent to removing nearly 29,000 cars from the roads, marking a significant stride in the state’s efforts to combat climate change and reduce its carbon footprint.

The project is not just about clean energy; it’s also a significant economic driver. The construction and operation of the solar facility are expected to create more than 130 full-time equivalent jobs, contributing to the local economy and providing new employment opportunities in the region.

Governor Hochul, in a press release, emphasized the broader implications of this development. “New York is taking yet another step forward in building a clean economy,” she stated. “By issuing this final siting permit, we’re creating jobs, providing New York families and businesses with clean and sustainable energy, and building a better future for generations of New Yorkers to come.”

This latest announcement is part of a larger trend in New York’s renewable energy initiatives. The Brookside Solar project marks the 15th major renewable energy facility permit issued by the Office of Renewable Energy Siting since 2021. Collectively, these permits account for over 2.3 gigawatts of new clean energy, underscoring the state’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio.

Local leaders have expressed strong support for the project. Chateaugay town Supervisor Don Bilow, in a release, shared his enthusiasm for the Brookside Solar Project. “We support the state’s plan to increase the supply of green energy and lessen our dependence on fossil fuel,” Bilow said. He highlighted the importance of renewable projects in balancing the effects of greenhouse gases and pollution and expressed gratitude towards leaders who take the threat of global warming seriously.

In summary, the approval of the Brookside Solar LLC project in northern Franklin County represents a significant milestone in New York’s journey towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. The project not only contributes to the state’s clean energy goals but also brings economic benefits and job opportunities, all while addressing the critical issue of climate change. This development is a testament to New York’s ongoing commitment to renewable energy and environmental stewardship.