Urgent Update: NY Community Demands Taxes from Solar Developer

BREAKING: A North Country community is urgently seeking tax revenue from a solar energy project that has reportedly contributed zero dollars to local finances since its construction. New York state’s updated laws regarding renewable energy projects and payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreements come too late for Jefferson County, where residents demand accountability from developer Convergent Energy and Power.

State Assemblyman Scott Gray expressed frustration, stating that since the solar farm’s inception, neither the county, the town of Lyme, the village of Chaumont, nor the Lyme School District has received any tax revenue. “The company should be paying local taxes,” Gray emphasized.

The urgency of this situation is compounded by a significant incident involving the facility—a lithium battery fire in 2023. More than 30 fire departments and state officials spent several days managing the crisis, raising concerns over the costs incurred by local communities. When asked about the financial impact, Gray stated, “Oh, I have no idea. It’s tremendous, right?”

Though Gray believes Convergent has a moral obligation to contribute taxes, the law may not support this claim. The facility was constructed under section 487 of New York state’s real property tax law, which allows developers to bypass local taxes unless municipalities respond within 60 days to negotiate a PILOT agreement. Unfortunately, the town and village did not respond during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the county failed to follow up on their intent.

Jefferson County Administrator Ryan Pitcher highlighted the challenges small communities face against powerful developers, stating, “Small communities find themselves up against pressure from large developers and without a lot of tools in the toolbox to withstand that pressure.”

In a move to protect local interests, New York state updated the law in April 2021, allowing municipalities to create their own legislation for PILOT negotiations on future renewable projects, thereby overriding section 487. While Pitcher considers this a positive step, he insists that further action is necessary. He advocates for a united front among rural communities, urging “county, town, school district, and village” collaboration to secure better agreements with solar companies.

Despite previous silence, there is a glimmer of hope. Gray reports that Convergent plans to meet with stakeholders shortly to address the tax revenue issue. “We need to ensure that these renewable energy projects contribute to our communities,” he asserted.

As this situation develops, residents of Jefferson County are hopeful for a resolution that ensures fair compensation for the resources utilized by the solar farm. The community is watching closely as officials and Convergent engage in discussions that could redefine local tax obligations and support the financial health of the region.

Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, highlighting the ongoing fight for local tax equity in the face of renewable energy expansion.