In a significant move towards bolstering renewable energy resources, the New York Power Authority (NYPA) has taken full control of a solar power initiative in Fort Edward, Washington County. This 20 megawatt (MW) project marks NYPA’s first venture under its newly expanded authority, a milestone in New York State’s ambitious renewable energy expansion plan.
NYPA’s Strategic Solar Expansion
The Somers Solar project, now wholly owned and operated by NYPA, aligns with the state’s renewable strategic plan, which targets a 3 gigawatt growth in renewable energy. Governor Kathy Hochul spotlighted the acquisition as a pivotal step towards a greener and economically robust New York, stating, “The project reflects New York’s efforts to create a greener, more resilient energy system that benefits all New Yorkers, and demonstrates our focus on driving economic growth in local communities while creating good-paying union jobs.”
Justin E. Driscoll, President and CEO of NYPA, emphasized the importance of this development, noting, “Our first new renewable energy project as part of NYPA’s expanded authority will be the 100% NYPA-owned and NYPA-operated 20 MW Somers Solar project in Washington County. Our role is to bring this project to execution and ensure its efficient and safe operation for generations; that is what NYPA does best.”
Project Development and Job Creation
Planned on a 150-acre site approximately 50 miles north of Albany, the large-scale solar initiative is expected to generate over 100 union jobs during its construction and operational phases. The project was initially developed by CS Energy, based in Edison, N.J., which will redirect its resources to other future renewable projects following this acquisition.
Eric Millard, Chief Commercial Officer of CS Energy, expressed pride in contributing to New York’s clean energy goals: “We are proud to play a key role in advancing New York’s clean energy transition with the development of this solar project. Our commitment to building a clean and sustainable future aligns with New York’s ambitious energy goals, and we look forward to continuing to support it.”
NYPA’s Broadened Renewable Authority
The expanded mandate, enabled by the 2023-24 Enacted State Budget, empowers NYPA to accelerate the development of renewable energy, contribute to workforce training, support decarbonization efforts, and phase out smaller natural gas plants in urban areas. This move is part of a broader commitment to providing clean, affordable power while expanding the state’s transmission network.
In January 2025, NYPA released its first Renewables Strategic Plan, outlining 37 potential projects with a combined capacity exceeding 3 gigawatts. This strategic document incorporates input from a wide range of stakeholders and sets priorities for advancing projects over the next two years.
Support and Economic Impact
Assemblymember Didi Barrett hailed the acquisition as a milestone in NYPA’s renewable endeavors, stating, “NYPA’s ownership will ensure affordable energy for New Yorkers while creating good paying union jobs and helping us reach our ambitious climate goals.” Echoing this sentiment, Assemblymember Carrie Woerner remarked on the project’s potential to boost job creation and deliver clean energy to Washington County.
New York’s Climate Vision
New York State’s climate agenda envisions a just and affordable shift to a clean energy economy, aiming for emissions-free status by 2050 across various sectors including energy, construction, transportation, and waste management. Investments in green initiatives are designed to fuel economic growth while ensuring that at least 35 percent of benefits reach disadvantaged communities.
About NYPA
As the largest state public power organization in the United States, NYPA operates 17 generating facilities and maintains over 1,550 circuit miles of transmission lines. Approximately 80 percent of its electricity production is derived from clean, renewable hydropower. For more details, visit www.nypa.gov and follow their updates on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, and LinkedIn.
Original Story at www.governor.ny.gov