Encore Renewable Energy announced they have begun constructing a 3.6-MW solar array in Constable, New York.
Encore's Constable Solar Project Powers New York
Constable Solar marks Encore’s inaugural solar project in New York State and is part of nearly 90 MW of solar and energy storage projects that Encore is currently developing in the Empire State. Through New York's NY-Sun Initiative and VDER program, NYSEG will compensate Encore for the electricity generated by this new array providing customers with affordable, reliable and carbon-free energy.
Image: Collected
“With New York’s ambitious clean energy goals and an evolving energy supply market that is finding renewables to be an increasingly more cost-effective form of energy production, the demand for solar has never been higher. Utilities are the tip of the spear when it comes to broader clean energy adoption, and delivering projects like this in partnership with NYSEG is critical for meeting increased energy demand at affordable costs for ratepayers, ” said Chad Farrell, founder and co-CEO of Encore Renewable Energy.
Innovative Grazing Solution for Solar Project
Encore has partnered with J&R Pierce Family Farm in West Chazy, New York to use sheep for rotational grazing at the site ensuring it meets the vegetation management standards necessary for solar production. This approach eliminates the need for noisy, fossil fuel-powered mowers while enhancing soil quality and promoting pollinator health.
“We’re looking forward to partnering with Encore on this agri-energy project. As a small family farm, these partnerships with local solar companies are vital for supporting our business and continuing to keep land in agricultural production,” said Rebekah Pierce of J&R Pierce Family Farm.
The project site previously used for hay production is owned by siblings Michelle, Danielle and Steve Sirois who have owned the land in Constable for 29 years.
“This project provides an exciting opportunity to preserve our father’s land by putting it to good use by supporting clean energy in the community,” added the Sirois siblings.
GreenSpark Solar Leads Construction
Construction has commenced with survey and civil activities currently underway being carried out by GreenSpark Solar, a New York-based solar contractor.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Encore as a new portfolio partner and to kick off our first collaboration in Vermont, alongside this project in our home state of New York. Our values-aligned partnership is highlighted through both teams’ designations as Certified B Corporations and member-owners within the nationwide Amicus Solar Cooperative. Working with Encore’s team of development experts makes it easy for GreenSpark to focus on building high-quality solar solutions for our shared projects.” said Scott Abbett, Executive Director of Commercial Operations & Electrical Self-Performance, Co-Owner at GreenSpark Solar