Bill > S00270

This bill amends the New York State environmental conservation law to create an exemption that allows municipalities to sell or use parkland for small-scale solar energy projects without requiring explicit legislative approval. Specifically, the bill permits the sale or disposal of airspace rights above existing parking areas for solar energy installations that do not exceed two megawatts in generating capacity. The exemption applies only to parklands outside of the Adirondack and Catskill parks, which are protected by separate regulations. By providing this exemption, the bill aims to facilitate the development of renewable energy infrastructure by simplifying the process for municipalities to utilize the airspace above parking lots for solar panel installations. The bill would take effect immediately and apply to parkland alienations for renewable energy projects from the date of enactment. Key terms include "alienation" (the transfer or sale of property), "generating capacity" (the maximum amount of electricity a solar installation can produce), and "airspace rights" (the right to use the space above a piece of land).

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S270