ALBANY, NY – New York State has made significant strides in expanding its clean energy capacity with the approval of its 25th renewable energy project under Governor Kathy Hochul’s leadership. Over the past four years, the state has approved 3.6 gigawatts (GW) of large-scale renewable energy projects, which include solar and wind power generation.

White Creek Solar Project: A Landmark Achievement

The latest development is the White Creek Solar project, which will establish a 135-megawatt (MW) solar array in the towns of York and Leicester in Livingston County, New York. The solar array will generate enough clean energy to power over 18,000 homes while creating 150 local construction jobs during the building phase.

Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the importance of this project in the state’s clean energy transformation:
“The White Creek solar array in Western New York exemplifies New York State’s progress toward creating a clean energy economy. With refined siting protocols through the establishment of ORES four years ago, New York is expediting permitting for clean energy projects to achieve a clean energy economy while creating good-paying jobs that benefit communities throughout the state.”

The White Creek Solar facility will be equipped with not only the solar panels but also support equipment, an interconnection substation, fencing, access roads, and an operations and maintenance building. The energy produced will be transmitted to the New York electrical grid via a newly established point of interconnection on a Rochester Gas & Electric transmission line.

Community and Economic Benefits

In addition to green energy production, the White Creek Solar project brings a wealth of benefits to the local community, including:

• Permanent jobs during the operation phase
• Local property tax revenues
• Increased funding for local infrastructure, public services, schools, and community priorities
• Public road enhancements
• Host community agreements with York and Leicester that ensure local stakeholders directly benefit from the project without burdening municipal budgets.

Zeryai Hagos, Executive Director of the Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission (ORES), highlighted the balance between development and community engagement:
“With the issuance of the siting permit for White Creek Solar, ORES continues to advance New York’s nation-leading clean energy policies while being responsive to community feedback and protecting the environment.”

A Comprehensive Review Process

The approval of the White Creek Solar project follows a thorough, transparent review process, ensuring compliance with the New York State Public Service Law. Public participation was a cornerstone of the review, ensuring that the project meets all legal and environmental requirements. The permit process began with an application completion on July 21, 2024, followed by a draft permit issued on September 13, 2024.

The White Creek Solar project marks the 20th clean energy siting permit issued by ORES since its creation in 2021. Collectively, these projects represent over 2.9 GW of clean energy, playing a crucial role in meeting New York’s ambitious climate goals.

Driving Forward New York’s Clean Energy Agenda

New York’s climate agenda is clear: the state is committed to a clean energy future that is both affordable and just. The transition to a clean energy economy aims to create family-sustaining jobs, promote economic growth, and prioritize disadvantaged communities, with at least 35% of benefits directed to these areas. The state is also focused on achieving an emissions-free economy by 2050, with significant efforts across energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

Governor Hochul’s vision is transforming New York into a national leader in clean energy, where large-scale renewable projects like White Creek Solar contribute to both the state’s energy goals and its economic growth.

Looking Ahead

With a strong pipeline of future renewable energy projects, New York is setting the stage for an energy-efficient, clean future, while also providing economic opportunities and workforce development for communities across the state. The White Creek Solar project is just one example of how public-private partnerships, environmental stewardship, and job creation can work together to build a sustainable future for all New Yorkers.

For more information on the White Creek Solar project and other renewable energy initiatives, visit the Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission website at ores.ny.gov/permit-applications.

Originally reported by Governor Kathy Hochul.