SolarBank has announced plans to develop the 5.4 MW DC Boyle Project, a ground-mount solar power initiative located in Broome County, New York. This project is anticipated to qualify for incentives under the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) NY-Sun Program.
The company has secured a lease for the project site and has submitted an application for interconnection approval. The Boyle Project is part of SolarBank's expanding community solar portfolio, which now exceeds one gigawatt in its development pipeline.
In a notable feature, the project will incorporate agrivoltaics, utilizing land for both solar energy production and agriculture. This includes a partnership for sheep grazing, which has been shown to improve soil health and promote ecosystem vitality while managing vegetation around solar panels.
The grazing of sheep at the solar farm will contribute dairy, meat, and wool to the local renewable farm market, providing farmers with a consistent source of income alongside their existing agricultural products.
Once operational, the Boyle Project will serve as a community solar initiative, feeding clean energy directly into the local electricity grid. This will enable renters and homeowners in the area to earn credits on their electric bills, offering them the benefits of renewable energy without the need for individual solar panel installations.
However, the development of the Boyle Project faces several risks, including the need for interconnection approval, required permits, and ongoing third-party financing arrangements. Additionally, potential changes in government policies or incentives for solar power could impact the project's economic viability.
