The Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency (TCIDA) adopted an off-site commercial solar policy on October 12, 2017. The policy will make available a property tax incentive to promote community solar projects. Community solar projects allow anyone to purchase renewable energy generated from the sun without the high cost of installing solar on their own roof. Property taxes have been one of the hurdles for community solar in New York State and the TCIDA is hoping the policy will jumpstart solar development. This policy supports consumer choice for renewable energy generation, Tompkins County’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050, and the State’s goal to generate 50% of New York’s electricity from renewables by 2030.
“The IDA is playing an important role in making community solar a financially viable energy choice for hundreds of local residents.” – Jim Dennis, Chair of the TCIDA and Tompkins County Legislator
The TCIDA has approved six projects totaling 12 megawatts of solar power, enough to power 2,400 to 3,600 homes. Three projects are located in the Town of Newfield, two are in the Town of Enfield, and one is in the Town of Ulysses. Each of the projects will generate more in property taxes than what is currently being generated on the existing land.
For the full press release click here.
For the full policy click here.
