FENNER, N.Y. — A large solar project planned for Madison County is moving forward, even as local leaders say they feel sidelined by the state’s decision.

Cypress Creek Renewables, the developer behind the Oxbow Hill Solar project in the Town of Fenner, received the final go-ahead this month from the State Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission (ORES). The permit allows construction of the utility-scale solar array that developers say will power about 23,000 homes and create 330 temporary construction jobs for the region.

But the green light comes amid strong objections from local officials and some community members.

“We are all for renewable energy, but we’re not all for having it without our rules and regulations to regulate it,” said Jim Cunningham, Chairman of the Madison County Board of Supervisors, in an interview with the I-Team.

Cunningham added his frustration grew when the county learned about the state’s decision through a press release instead of direct communication.

“It is very frustrating to learn from a press release that the Oxbow Hill solar project got a green light from New York State,” he said in a statement, noting the project will occupy roughly 20% of the Town of Fenner’s total acreage.

Local Pushback, State Response

Earlier this spring, Cunningham and 25 other county leaders wrote directly to Governor Kathy Hochul, urging the state to reconsider fast-tracking large renewable projects by easing regulations that make it easier for out-of-town companies to develop wind and solar installations on local farmland and open space.

“ORES responded back thank you for the letter,” Cunningham said. “It felt like they didn’t care.”

Despite the pushback, a spokesperson for ORES defended the permit decision, stating that the approval came only after a “robust” public comment and review process and that the project “meaningfully advances New York’s clean energy goals.”

What Comes Next

Construction on Oxbow Hill Solar is expected to begin in 2026, with the build projected to last 12 to 18 months. Once operational, the panels could help supply local power needs for up to 40 years.

Cypress Creek Renewables says the project aligns with New York’s aggressive climate targets, which aim for 70% of the state’s electricity to come from renewable sources by 2030.

Local residents remain divided — some see the project as a necessary step toward a clean energy future, while others worry about the lasting impact on rural landscapes and farmland.

The Madison County Board of Supervisors says it will continue to press for more local oversight in future renewable developments and hopes the state will reconsider how it balances statewide energy goals with rural community concerns.

Originally reported by Mary kielar in CNY Central.