The wind farm will be constructed in Chautauqua County, New York. The Sitting Board’s decision follows a rigorous review and public participation process to ensure that the wind farm meets all the requirements.
The Cassadaga wind farm will be built on 77 acres of land and will include 48 high-capacity, 500ft tall turbines. A significant part of the components needed at the facility will be located on private land.
The developer EverPower Wind initially proposed to install 62 turbines but reduced the number during public review process.
In order to take the decision, the Siting Board studied the environmental impact of the wind farm’s construction and operation. The wind farm is expected to help in improving fuel diversity, grid reliability and modernization of grid infrastructure.
The wind farm is also expected to bring in economic benefits to the host communities. The construction phase is expected to create 470 construction and full time jobs with an annual payroll of more than $80m.
Siting Board chair John B. Rhodes said: “In keeping with Governor Andrew Cuomo’s goal to develop clean energy resources in New York State, we are proud to approve construction of this appropriately sited wind farm.
“Wind energy is a clean fuel source. It doesn't pollute the air like power plants that rely on fossil fuels and it’s renewable. Our decision today demonstrates once again that New York is a national leader in creating a clean-energy economy in New York.”
Image: New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting approves 126MW wind farm. Photo: Coutesy of andrew sim/FreeImages.com.
