The Morris Ridge Solar Project, developed by EDF Renewables North America, is now operational and supplying electricity to New York State’s power grid. Located in the town of Mount Morris, this project is part of the state’s energy strategy aiming to achieve 70% renewable energy by 2030.
With a capacity of 229 MWdc / 177 MWac, Morris Ridge was awarded a long-term contract by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) as part of the 2018 Renewable Energy Standard solicitation.
Economic Impact for the Region
The project has brought direct economic benefits to local communities, particularly in Mount Morris and Livingston County. Over 550 jobs were created during the construction phase, generating approximately $22 million in union wages. Additionally, local authorities are expected to receive a total of $18.6 million in tax contributions distributed among school districts, fire services, and municipalities.
The development and construction of Morris Ridge also resulted in over $70 million in expenditures on materials, services, and labor, supporting the local economy.
An Advance in the Regulatory Process
Morris Ridge is the first project to receive permitting approval through the Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES), an organization established to streamline administrative procedures for energy projects. This milestone positions the project as a compliance model within New York’s regulatory framework.
EDF Renewables’ Positioning
EDF Renewables North America is a key player in the North American energy solutions market. The company reports having developed over 18 gigawatts of wind, solar, and storage projects over 35 years. With this project, it strengthens its presence in New York State’s energy market by addressing energy diversification goals.
New York’s Energy Capacity and Goals
The commissioning of Morris Ridge addresses the growing demand for energy infrastructure by bolstering the grid’s capacity. The project supports New York’s goals to transition away from conventional energy sources while improving network reliability.
