BILL NUMBER: S4571
SPONSOR: HARCKHAM
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the public authorities law, in relation to establishing
a floating solar incentive and education program
 
PURPOSE:
To establish a floating solar incentive and education program to promote
the development and adoption of floating solar technology in New York
State.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 adds a new section 1885 to the Public Authorities Law to
establish a Floating Solar Incentive and Education Program, defining
"floating solar" as solar photovoltaic systems mounted on floating
structures on bodies of water. The program will provide information,
technical assistance, access to industry standards, and financing
resources to municipalities, developers, and other stakeholders for the
construction of floating solar projects.
Section 2 states the effective date as 180 days after becoming law, with
provisions for necessary rulemaking before that date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Floating solar technology presents a unique opportunity to expand renew-
able energy generation while utilizing underutilized water surfaces such
as reservoirs, lakes, and canals. This bill seeks to incentivize and
educate stakeholders on floating solar projects, which offer multiple
benefits, including increased solar efficiency due to the cooling effect
of water, reduced land-use conflicts, and potential improvements in
water conservation and algae control.
By providing grants, technical assistance, and best practices for siting
and maintaining floating solar installations, the program will help
municipalities, developers, and other entities adopt this innovative
clean energy solution. Additionally, monitoring the environmental
impacts of floating solar ensures that projects are developed in an
ecologically responsible manner. Establishing this program will advance
New York's renewable energy goals, promote sustainable energy infras-
tructure, and support the state's ongoing efforts to combat climate
change.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
TBD.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect 180 days after becoming law.