Rural counties ask Gov. Hochul to 'slow down' on renewable energy projects

FENNER, N.Y. — Madison County officials are seeking public comment regarding a proposed renewable energy project championed by New York State.

The New York State Association of Counties sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul asking that her administration “slow down” on mandates that would pave the way for solar and wind farms across the state. The letter stated concerns over green energy-reliability, environmental impact and how they will affect the economy. Instead, the letter cites nuclear energy as a better alternative.

Namely, officials are concerned with Liberty Renewal’s Hoffman Falls Wind Project, which is set to erect 24 643-feet high windmills across the Towns of Fenner, Nelson Eaton and Smithfield. Windmills already exist in the area, but Madison County officials noted that the proposed turbines would be taller.

Local municipalities are held to the Renewable Action Through Interconnection & Deployment, or RAPID, Act. The law, which was announced in January 2024, seeks to accelerate the state’s transition to cleaner energy by streamlining environmental review and the permitting of renewable energy facilities under the Office of Renewable Energy Siting, or ORES. ORES would have total authority over green-based initiatives and may operate without approval from local governments.

Liberty Renewals has said that the windmill project is expected to provide around $63 million in local investments to the area.

26 New York State county leaders, including Madison County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jim Cunningham, have signed the letter to Governor Hochul.

The public hearing for the Hoffman Falls Wind Project will be held at SUNY Morrisville on April 23 at 6 p.m. Public comments can be sent to the New York State Department of Public at this link. Comments are due by April 25.

NYSAC’s letter to Governor Hochul is posted below: