WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – The New York Power Authority is becoming the majority owner of the upcoming 240-megawatt Rich Road solar project in the town of Canton.
Under the deal, NYPA owns 51% of the project, with the initial developer, EDF Power Solutions, owning the rest. EDF will remain involved in the project’s development and oversee construction at the 1,400-acre site.
NYPA says its ownership stake will help support a program that provides bill credits to low-income New Yorkers.
Canton Town Supervisor Jim Smith said he had mixed emotions following news of NYPA’s involvement.
“We had an early indication this might be happening. We just weren’t sure when it was going to happen,” Smith said.
“When you get a new player in this late, it makes you a little nervous, but seeing how it’s NYPA, NYPA has been very good to local communities where they’re working,” Smith said.
Assemblyman Scott Gray believes NYPA’s involvement in this project stems from state legislation directing NYPA to expand renewable energy sources in New York. Gray was against the legislation at the time but sees NYPA’s involvement as a positive given the circumstances.
“They have more of a responsibility to the taxpayers and local elected officials, whereas a developer may not necessarily have that sense. They may do it out of the desire to be a good corporate citizen, but they don’t have as much obligation,” said Gray, who represents the 116th Assembly District.
Smith doesn’t think NYPA’s involvement will affect the town’s role in the project.
“That is yet to be seen, but it’s my understanding nothing is changing as far as where we’re at,” Smith said.
NYPA declined to comment on the cost of the deal. Construction is expected to begin late next year, with the solar farm operational by 2029.
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