State Issues Final Permit for AES’s White Creek Solar Project; Young/Sommer Exceeds 4 GWs of Permitted Projects
Posted on February 28, 2025
New York’s clean energy momentum continues with the recent approval of the White Creek Solar project in Livingston County, a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to a sustainable energy future. Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement of the 25th large-scale renewable energy project permitted in New York over the past four years is a testament to the state’s proactive stance on clean energy. Jim Muscato and Laura Darlings’s strategic guidance played a key role in securing the necessary approvals for White Creek Solar (and 21 of the State’s 25 issued permits in the last four years).
The White Creek Solar project, a 135-megawatt solar array spanning the towns of York and Leicester, is expected to power over 18,000 homes and create approximately 150 construction jobs.
Jim Muscato and Laura Darling, leading environmental and energy attorneys at Young/Sommer, were instrumental in navigating the complex regulatory landscape to ensure White Creek Solar met all state requirements. Their deep understanding of New York’s Article VIII permitting process and ORES’s evolving siting protocols enabled a thorough yet expedited approval process. By effectively engaging with stakeholders, addressing environmental concerns, and ensuring compliance with state regulations, Muscato and Darling helped make White Creek Solar a model for future renewable energy developments.
“New York’s leadership in renewable energy depends on a legal framework that balances efficiency with thorough environmental review,” said Jim Muscato. “Our team at Young/Sommer is proud to have played a role in advancing this project, which will contribute to the state’s clean energy targets while also benefiting local communities.”
Laura Darling emphasized the collaborative nature of the permitting process: “The success of White Creek Solar is a reflection of proactive engagement among developers, regulators, and community stakeholders. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a project that exemplifies New York’s commitment to sustainability and economic growth.”
The project’s approval aligns with New York State’s ambitious climate agenda, which aims for an emissions-free economy by 2050. With more than 3 gigawatts of renewable energy projects permitted, the Renewable Energy Practice at Young/Sommer continues to be vital in translating policy into action.
As White Creek Solar moves into the construction phase, the work of Young/Sommer serves as a blueprint for future projects seeking to navigate the complexities of renewable energy permitting. Their expertise ensures that New York remains a national leader in clean energy development, fostering economic opportunities while advancing the state’s ambitious environmental goals.