Jefferson County Demands Tax Revenue from Solar Project NOW

UPDATE: A community in Jefferson County, New York, is urgently demanding tax revenue from a solar energy project that has generated no local taxes since its inception. State Assemblyman Scott Gray confirmed that the developer, Convergent Energy and Power, has not contributed a single dollar to the county, the town of Lyme, the village of Chaumont, or the Lyme School District since the solar farm was built five years ago.

Gray’s statements come in light of new developments regarding renewable energy laws in New York. While the state updated its regulations in April 2021 to allow municipalities to negotiate Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements, the changes came too late for this community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, local officials failed to respond within the required timeframe, leaving them without leverage against the developer.

Gray criticized the situation, stating, “The company should be paying local taxes to the county, town, village and school district.” He emphasized the burden that the facility imposes on local resources, referencing a significant incident in 2023 when a lithium battery fire at the solar farm required a response from over 30 fire departments and state officials. “How much did that cost the state and local communities? Oh, I have no idea. It’s tremendous, right?” Gray added.

Despite the legal loophole that may protect Convergent from immediate tax obligations, Gray believes there is a moral obligation to contribute to the community. Jefferson County Administrator Ryan Pitcher echoed these sentiments, stating, “Small communities find themselves up against pressure from large developers and without a lot of tools in the toolbox to withstand that pressure.”

The new law allows for future projects to negotiate PILOT agreements, but officials like Pitcher insist more must be done. “We really need a united approach. These rural communities need to stand together – county, town, school district, village, together and negotiate the best possible deal with these solar companies,” Pitcher urged.

The state Department of Taxation has declined to comment on this specific case, and Convergent has not responded to requests for comment. However, in a glimmer of hope for local officials, Gray noted that Convergent plans to meet with stakeholders to discuss a resolution that could finally bring tax revenue into the community.

Residents are now watching closely as talks get underway, hoping for a resolution that will alleviate the financial strain and ensure their community receives fair compensation for the resources utilized by the solar facility. The urgency for action is palpable, and the outcome of these negotiations will be critical for the future of Jefferson County.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as stakeholders come to the table.