Bill > S03671

This bill authorizes local municipalities and political subdivisions to have final say on renewable energy power plant siting within their jurisdictions, introducing several key provisions to increase local control and transparency. The bill establishes strict conflict of interest standards, requiring local elected officials or government employees who would personally benefit from a renewable energy project to recuse themselves from voting or participating in project discussions. It mandates that the Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmissions (ORES) create a public, electronic database displaying unredacted host agreements and land contracts for renewable energy facilities. The legislation also requires renewable energy project applicants to conduct pre-application meetings with local municipal leaders and provide detailed documentation of their engagement efforts. Additionally, the bill introduces new regulations for renewable energy solicitors, prohibiting deceptive practices such as impersonating law enforcement or government officials, and establishes misdemeanor penalties for violations. The bill aims to provide municipalities more autonomy in reviewing and approving renewable energy projects while increasing transparency and preventing potential conflicts of interest in the siting process.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3671