New solar grid operational in Mount Morris

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- A new solar project in the Town of Mount Morris is fully operational and delivering electricity to the state's power grid.

EDF Renewables North America announced the development this week. At full capacity, Morris Ridge Solar is expected to power more than 47,000 average households, EDF said. That would potentially avoid 140,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, which is roughly the equivalent of 30,000 passenger vehicles driven over the course of a year.

“It is exciting to see a renewable energy project like Morris Ridge Solar start to deliver clean, reliable electricity to New York families and businesses," said Doreen Harris, president and CEO of the New York State Energy and Research Development. This achievement is a shining example of how a community-driven project can support hundreds of local jobs while spurring meaningful economic development activity and investment in Mount Morris and Livingston County at large.”

The project has been a financial boost to the area thus far. At its peak, EDF provided jobs for 550 people, the company said. Those benefits to the community are expected to continue going forward, with the company projecting financial contributions of $18 million to the county, town, school and fire districts over the grid's operational life.

“The Morris Ridge Solar Project not only represents our commitment to renewable energy but also underscores our dedication to the economic and environmental well-being of New York State,” said Stephane Desdunes, vice president development for EDF Renewables Northeast Region.  “We are proud to be the first project to receive permitting through the Office of Renewable Energy Siting, marking a significant step in New York’s clean energy transition.  We are especially grateful to the host community, whose support and active participation were instrumental in realizing the largest operational solar project in New York State.  We look forward to continuing to contribute to the state’s sustainability goals in Mount Morris and other communities.”