By Hank Russell
A local state senator is deriding a proposal that would allow solar panels to be installed on floating platforms and travel along the state’s waterways, saying that this is another climate mandate being imposed by Albany Democrats and such projects could harm the environment.
The state Senate recently passed a bill introduced by Peter Harckham (D,WF-Peekskill) and Assemblywoman Didi Barrett (D-Mid-Hudson Valley) would allow floating solar panels on lakes, reservoirs and canals in New York State. This legislation would also amend the Public Authorities Law, directing the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to establish a floating solar incentive and education program.
This program would provide information and resources to municipalities, developers, builders, design professionals, and potential owners for the construction of floating solar, according to the legislation. This includes technical assistance, access to industry standards, and financing which would be made available through NYSERDA or other public or private sector sources,
The bill is currently sitting in the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee.
There is currently one project in the upstate city of Cohoes and plans are another currently underway to have one in Camp Lake Reservoir in Peekskill. Supporters say these floating solar panels will generate plenty of energy for the state and help reduce utility costs.
“They tend to be good sites in terms of the amount of energy they produce, and actually, in some ways, they are easier to install,” Ian Fischer of Working Power told Channel 2 News. Fischer’s company is currently working with a local nonprofit on the Camp Lake project.
But State Senator Steve Rhoads (R-Levittown) said such floating solar projects could have a negative impact on water quality. “Our waterways aren’t industrial test sites,” he said. “These projects raise concerns about impacts on aquatic ecosystems, reduced sunlight in the water, restricted boating and recreation access, and potential risks to drinking water reservoirs.”
Rhoads called these floating solar projects “part of another costly climate mandate,” adding, “We can pursue clean, reliable energy without covering our lakes and rivers or harming tourism, fishing, and local waterfront communities.”