New York Renewable Energy Projects Review and Approval

under review

State Senator Joseph Griffo and members of the Senate Republican Conference are calling for greater transparency in how New York reviews and approves renewable energy projects. They requested detailed information on projects under review or expected to be approved, especially those that could impact protected lands, environmentally sensitive areas, and farmland. The letter emphasizes a balanced approach to protect natural resources and respect residents, maintaining public trust while advancing energy innovation. The Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES) oversees these approvals, created under the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. The RAPID Act of 2024 aims to speed up permitting while maintaining protections, but has faced opposition for potentially overriding local control. Senator Griffo plans to reintroduce legislation to eliminate ORES and return decision-making to municipalities.