EDF Renewables North America (EDFR) announced the successful completion of the Morris Ridge Solar Project, which is now fully operational and delivering clean electricity to New York’s power grid. The project 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.
Located in the Town of Mount Morris, the Morris Ridge Solar Project has a total capacity of 229 megawatts (MWdc) / 177 MWac and is a key player in helping New York meet its ambitious renewable energy goal of generating 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. This solar project has already made a significant positive impact on the local community, creating jobs and procurement opportunities during its development and construction.
At the peak of its construction, the project employed 550 workers, with over $22 million in union wages paid. Additionally, it is projected to contribute $18.6 million in financial benefits to Mount Morris and surrounding districts, including local schools, fire districts, and the town itself, throughout its operational life. The project has also contributed more than $70 million into the New York economy through the procurement of materials, services, labor, and other expenses.
“The Morris Ridge Solar Project reflects our commitment not only to renewable energy but also to the economic growth and sustainability of New York State,” said Stephane Desdunes, Vice President of Development for EDF Renewables in the Northeast Region. “We are proud to be the first project to secure permitting through the Office of Renewable Energy Siting, marking a significant milestone in New York’s clean energy transition. We are especially grateful for the strong support from the host community, which played an essential role in bringing the largest operational solar project in New York State to fruition. We look forward to continuing to support the state’s sustainability goals in Mount Morris and beyond.”
Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of NYSERDA, also expressed enthusiasm for the project’s success. “It is exciting to see the Morris Ridge Solar Project now delivering clean, reliable electricity to New York’s homes and businesses. This achievement is a great example of how a community-driven renewable energy project can create hundreds of local jobs while stimulating significant economic development and investment in Mount Morris and the wider Livingston County area,” Harris said.
Once fully operational, the Morris Ridge Solar Project is expected to provide enough energy to power over 47,000 average New York households. This output will help prevent approximately 140,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions annually, which is equivalent to the emissions from nearly 30,000 passenger vehicles driven for a full year.
EDF Renewables is one of North America’s leading renewable energy developers, with more than 35 years of experience and a portfolio of 18 gigawatts of wind, solar, and energy storage projects. The company is committed to providing comprehensive energy solutions that assist customers in meeting their carbon-reduction goals, including grid-scale power and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
By contributing to the clean energy transition and driving local economic development, the Morris Ridge Solar Project is helping New York take significant strides toward a more sustainable future.
