New York Construction Report staff writer
SolarBank Corporation has unveiled plans to develop a 7.2 MW DC ground-mount solar power project in Gainesville.
The site for the Jordan Rd project has already secured a lease, and the interconnection study is currently underway. If the interconnection study is successful SolarBank will begin the permitting process and secure financing necessary to begin construction. The project is expected to qualify for incentives through the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) NY-Sun Program.
Once completed, the site will operate as a community solar initiative, providing clean energy to the local grid. Community solar enables renters and homeowners to benefit from solar power without the need to install panels on their properties. By subscribing to the project, participants can earn credits on their electricity bills, sharing in the savings from the solar energy generated.
SolarBank has partnered with Solar Simplified, which will manage customer-facing activities for the community solar project.
There are several risks associated with the development of the project, including the potential for delays in interconnection approvals, obtaining necessary permits and securing financing. Also, changes in government policies or incentives for solar power could impact the project’s economic viability.
SolarBank is an independent developer and owner of renewable energy projects, specializing in distributed and community solar power, as well as Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and EV charging stations.
