Bill > A04682

This bill requires public referendum approval for major renewable energy facilities and battery energy storage sites before a final siting permit can be issued. Specifically, the bill mandates that any proposed major renewable energy project must be approved by a majority vote (51%) of voters in the municipality where the facility is intended to be located. The referendum must be held within 60 days, but no earlier than 30 days after the Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES) makes its initial decision. The bill defines battery energy storage sites and systems in detail, classifying them into tier one (smaller capacity) and tier two (larger capacity) categories. It amends existing public service and public authorities laws to incorporate these new requirements, ensuring that local communities have a direct say in whether large-scale renewable energy projects can proceed in their area. The bill aims to balance the state's clean energy goals (referenced by the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act or CLCPA) with local community input and concerns about major energy infrastructure projects.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4682