FAQ: New York's 2025 Land-Based Renewable Energy Solicitation

What is the main purpose of New York’s new renewable energy solicitation?

The solicitation aims to lock in large-scale renewable energy projects before federal tax credits expire, targeting shovel-ready wind, solar, and other renewable projects that can generate over $5 billion in clean energy investments.

Why is the timing of this solicitation so urgent?

There is growing urgency due to uncertainty surrounding federal climate policy and expiring tax incentives that have supported renewable development nationwide, so New York wants to maximize use of these credits before they disappear.

What types of projects are being targeted in this solicitation?

The solicitation focuses specifically on late-stage, construction-ready wind, solar, and other renewable projects rather than early-stage proposals, allowing for immediate development.

What are the key deadlines for developers interested in participating?

Eligibility applications are due October 21st, with final proposals from qualified participants due December 4th, and conditional award notifications expected by February 2026.

How is New York streamlining the process for these renewable projects?

State agencies are streamlining permitting, interconnection, and contracting processes to push eligible projects through the approval pipeline quickly and maximize federal incentives.

What additional requirements are included in this solicitation beyond energy generation?

The solicitation includes component cost indexing for market fluctuations, labor standards for worker protections, stakeholder engagement protocols, commitments to disadvantaged communities, and agricultural land preservation measures.

What is the current status of renewable energy in New York and how will this solicitation expand it?

New York currently has 102 renewable energy projects operating or under development representing over 9.7 gigawatts of clean power capacity, enough for more than 3 million homes, and this solicitation aims to substantially expand this pipeline.

What economic benefits are expected from this initiative?

The solicitation is projected to create over 2,500 jobs in addition to generating over $5 billion in private clean energy investments across the state.

Who is leading this renewable energy initiative in New York?

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the solicitation, and NYSERDA President Doreen Harris emphasized it serves as a key building block for the state’s energy transition strategy.

How does this initiative relate to New York’s broader climate goals?

Governor Hochul framed the initiative as New York refusing to let federal policy reversals derail state climate goals, using available federal incentives to advance the state’s energy transition despite national policy uncertainty.