By Blake Jackson
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a partnership between the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and the City of Albany to develop a 1.5-megawatt solar energy project at the capped North Albany/Shaker Park landfill.
Estimated to be online in 2027, the ground-mounted solar farm will power over 200 homes and marks NYPA’s first project under its new Renewable Energy Access and Community Help (REACH) program, which will lower energy costs for eligible low- and moderate-income residents in Albany and surrounding areas. At the project kickoff, Albany was also recognized for achieving silver status as a Climate Smart Community.
"Transforming the North Albany landfill into a source of clean energy is evidence of our steadfast commitment to create a more affordable and reliable electric system for all New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “Through this collaboration and project, NYPA is advancing its efforts to develop new renewables while simultaneously benefiting low- and moderate-income area residents with bill credits through its new REACH program. This project also reflects our focus on repurposing underutilized sites to meet our ambitious climate goals in smart, sustainable ways.”
Chosen after extensive evaluation, the landfill site will host the project, adjacent to Albany’s Department of General Services. The city and NYPA have completed pre-feasibility studies and will now proceed with development, including interconnection applications.
The REACH program will provide bill credits to eligible low- and moderate-income households enrolled in the state’s Energy Affordability Program (EAP) and Statewide Solar for All program once the project is operational in 2027.
This project is among the first under NYPA’s Renewables Strategic Plan, enabled by the 2023-24 Enacted State Budget, which expanded NYPA’s authority to advance renewable energy and support state climate goals.
New York Power Authority (NYPA), through its subsidiary NYRED, will construct the solar project. The authority’s inaugural Renewables Strategic Plan, published in January 2025, outlines 37 projects across New York State, representing over 3 GW of potential renewable energy.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: New York, Energy, Government & Policy