Relates to transparency and other requirements for applications submitted to ORES for siting of major renewable energy and major electric transmission facilities.
Impact
The bill introduces a framework where ORES must determine the completeness of siting permit applications within a set timeframe and ensure that local municipalities are consulted prior to submissions. A significant aspect of the legislation is its provision allowing ORES to override local laws if those laws impede the state's ability to meet its climate and renewable energy targets. This aspect has raised concerns among local governments, as it could diminish their authority over land-use regulations, impacting their capacity to respond to local community concerns.
Summary
Bill S08519 seeks to amend the public service law to enhance oversight and transparency regarding the siting of major renewable energy facilities and major electric transmission facilities in New York. It mandates that the Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES) maintain a public dashboard with information about siting permits and applications, ensuring that the public has access to real-time updates on projects, including their status and community input opportunities. This move is aimed at increasing accountability in the siting process, which is crucial for meeting renewable energy targets.
Contention
Notably, there is contention surrounding the balance between state oversight and local control. Proponents assert that overriding local laws is necessary for advancing cleaner energy and avoiding delays in permitting processes. In contrast, critics argue that such provisions could lead to a lack of consideration for local environmental and social contexts, undermining community input. The bill also establishes procedures for public comment, which aim to ensure that community feedback is adequately documented and considered during the permit process despite the potential for state preemption of local regulations.
Same As
Relates to transparency and other requirements for applications submitted to ORES for siting of major renewable energy and major electric transmission facilities.
Relates to transparency and other requirements for applications submitted to ORES for siting of major renewable energy and major electric transmission facilities.
Authorizes municipalities to require a permit for the construction of a major renewable energy facility, major electric transmission facility or certain major electric generating facilities.
Authorizes municipalities to require a permit for the construction of a major renewable energy facility, major electric transmission facility or certain major electric generating facilities.
Repeals the major renewable energy development program, including the office of renewable energy siting and electric transmission; and amends various provisions of law relating thereto.
Requires renewable energy data resources provided by NYSERDA to include mapping of certain capital projects with a value of greater than one million dollars for purposes of providing public information on the viability of siting of solar energy arrays, major renewable energy facilities, or major electric transmission facilities.
Requires renewable energy data resources provided by NYSERDA to include mapping of certain capital projects with a value of greater than one million dollars for purposes of providing public information on the viability of siting of solar energy arrays, major renewable energy facilities, or major electric transmission facilities.
Requires the office of renewable energy siting and electric transmission to promptly publish applications for permits to site a major renewable energy facility or to site a major electric transmission facility.
Requires certain construction project contracts with a value of greater than or equal to five million dollars to include siting of renewable energy systems, qualified energy storage systems, or major electric transmission facilities.
Requires certain construction project contracts with a value of greater than or equal to five million dollars to include siting of renewable energy systems, qualified energy storage systems, or major electric transmission facilities.
Relates to qualified energy storage systems; authorizes energy storage permitting under the office of renewable energy siting and electric transmission.