BILL NUMBER: S6882
SPONSOR: HARCKHAM
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the general municipal law, in relation to siting of
carport-mounted solar energy systems
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
Establishes legislative intent to encourage development of solar energy
systems and provides regulations for application of systems with regard
to local government zoning laws. Construction and installation of commu-
nity solar projects shall not be prohibited by local zoning ordinances
under certain circumstances.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 creates new article 5- M of the energy law to establish legis-
lative intent, application, and define community energy projects. Allows
community energy projects to not be prohibited by local zoning ordi-
nances.
Section 2 states the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
With over 5,500 MW of photovoltaics currently installed, New York State
is a leader in solar energy production. In order to meet the ambitious
goals set by the CLCPA, it is imperative that New York communities
continue to invest in solar infrastructure. Increasing the development
of solar energy projects will benefit public health by reducing harmful
emissions from fossil fuel power plants, diversify regional and state
energy supply, and create economic benefits through new jobs. The
misconception of solar projects taking over valuable real estate has
been disproved by the resourceful use of rooftops and vehicle parking
lots, and other areas that would otherwise be neglected.
Community energy projects provide an affordable way for New Yorkers to
participate in clean energy. Community solar projects are installed at
an offsite location, and many credit the subscribers' electric bill for
the clean energy produced. This legislation would diminish obstacles to
developing renewable energy projects and bring the State of New York
closer to its clean energy goals.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2023-2024: S8914A/A9810 - Died in Finance
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
TBD
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the first of January next succeeding the
date on which it shall have become a law.