Bill > A09087

This bill enacts the Community Solar Opportunity and Local Approval Reform (Community SOLAR) Act, which establishes standardized regulations for distributed generation energy facilities (solar photovoltaic systems or energy storage systems up to 5,000 kilowatts) across New York municipalities. The bill requires local authorities to establish consistent standards for siting and permitting these facilities, including specific setback requirements from community buildings, property lines, and roads, and limits on facility height and fencing. Municipalities must hold public hearings within 90 days of an application and make decisions within 30 days of the hearing, applying existing public utility standards. The bill prohibits municipalities from imposing overly restrictive regulations, such as limiting the number of facilities in agricultural or industrial zones, requiring unreasonable fees, or conditioning approvals on property value guarantees. Additionally, the bill mandates that solar project developers offer local residents the first opportunity to subscribe to the project at a discounted rate. The New York Department of Environmental Conservation is required to develop specific rules for siting solar facilities near wetlands, and the Department of State is tasked with enforcing these regulations and reviewing local laws to ensure compliance. Municipalities without existing solar laws can enact a single six-month moratorium to develop compliant regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9087