phone (518) 438-9907 (Ext. 243)
fax (518) 438-9914
jmuscato@youngsommer.com
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Jim Muscato is a nationally recognized leader in renewable energy law, serving as the Renewable Energy Practice Leader and Partner at his firm. Chambers has ranked him among the top environmental lawyers in Upstate New York, highlighting his expertise in permitting and regulatory matters.
With a deep understanding of New York’s evolving energy landscape, Jim has led the permitting of over 4,000 MW of large-scale renewable energy projects, and has experience permitting wind, solar, hydroelectric, and electric and gas transmission projects of all sizes. He is also at the forefront of emerging technologies, such as battery storage, hydrogen, and distributed generation. His proficiency in navigating New York State Siting processes, local zoning laws and the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) makes him a trusted advisor for energy developers across the state.
Beyond project development, Jim plays a critical role in shaping policy for New York’s ambitious climate initiatives. He actively contributes to regulatory and legislative efforts aimed at achieving the state’s 70% renewable energy target by 2030. His advocacy and contacts extend to key agencies, including the Department of Environmental Conservation, the Department of Public Service, and the Office of Renewable Energy Siting, where he frequently appears in proceedings and administrative matters. He has also argued cases at the state and federal levels, including before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.
A sought-after speaker, Jim regularly presents on environmental and energy law topics, including at events for the New York League of Conservation Voters, the New York Association of Towns, American Clean Power Association and the New York Alliance for Clean Energy. He serves as a Capital Region Board Member for the NY League of Conservation Voters and is an active member of the New York State Bar Association’s Environmental and Energy Law Section.
Bar Admissions
New York, 2002
U.S. District Court Northern District of New York, 2002
Education
Albany Law School Union University, Albany, New York, 2001, J.D.
Law Journal: Environmental Outlook Law Journal, Editor-in-Chief, 2000 – 2001
State University of New York at Geneseo, Geneseo, NY, U.S., 1998, B.A.
Major: Political Science
Major: Environmental Studies
Legal Assistant Information
Sarah Bogan, 518-438-9907 x. 229
sbogan@youngsommer.com