ALBANY – Legislation to require the state to develop a Clean Energy Mapping Tool to allow communities to identify lands best suited for renewable energy siting has been signed into law by the governor.
The measure was sponsored by Assemblywoman Didi Barrett (D, Hudson) and Senator Michelle Hinchey (D, Saugerties).
Barrett said the measure brings localities to the table before siting decisions are made.
“We have seen the challenges of balancing the need for more clean energy but also preserving farmland for food and ensuring the viability of local economies and we want to be sure that our communities, our municipalities are at the table when these important decisions of siting large-scale renewable energy projects happen,” she said.
Barrett said that bill empowers communities to be part of the process to ensure their voices are heard.
Read the full article here