Greenbacker Renewable Energy Company LLC announced on Wednesday the commencement of major construction activities at its 500-megawatt (MW) Cider Solar Farm, marking it as New York’s largest solar facility to date.

The large-scale solar complex, situated in Genesee County, is slated for commissioning by late 2026. Initial construction efforts will prioritize civil and mechanical work, including the installation of steel piling and racking systems to support the solar modules. Although preparatory work began in late 2024, Greenbacker expects all construction phases to be fully active by mid-summer.

The photovoltaic (PV) farm will span approximately 2,500 acres (1,012 hectares) and is designed to generate around 1 million megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity annually—enough to power about 120,000 average New York households each year. This sizeable output is a major step forward in New York’s push toward clean energy and renewable infrastructure.

Originally developed by Hecate Energy LLC, the project is now owned and financed by Greenbacker. The company secured $950 million in loans to facilitate the purchase, construction, and ongoing operation of the solar farm. Over the project’s expected lifespan, it is estimated to generate roughly $100 million in revenue for the local Genesee County community, providing a significant economic boost.

This development aligns with the broader trend of growing investments in renewable energy infrastructure nationwide. As the demand for clean power rises, projects like the Cider Solar Farm highlight the critical role of large-scale solar in transitioning to a more sustainable energy future.

“The start of major construction at Cider Solar is a significant milestone, reflecting our commitment to expanding renewable energy capacity in New York,” said a Greenbacker spokesperson. “We’re proud to contribute to the state’s clean energy goals while supporting local economic growth.”

With continued focus on sustainable energy projects and federal support for clean infrastructure, the Cider Solar Farm exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking investments essential for meeting climate targets and driving regional development.

Originally reported by Veselina Petrova in Renewables Now.