New York Launches New Renewable Energy Solicitation to Accelerate Clean Power Projects

New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Sept. 26 announced a coordinated effort to speed up the deployment of renewable energy projects, underscoring the state’s commitment to reliable, affordable, and clean power. The initiative is designed to meet rising electricity demand, advance economic development, and take advantage of federal tax credits that are set to expire. As part of the plan, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority launched the 2025 Land-Based Renewable Energy Solicitation, seeking proposals for large-scale wind, solar, and other eligible projects.

The solicitation focuses on late-stage projects that are ready to begin construction, streamlining the contracting process to bring projects online faster. NYSERDA has included provisions learned from past procurements, including cost indexing, labor standards, agricultural land preservation, and requirements for engagement with stakeholders and disadvantaged communities. Proposals will be submitted in two stages, with eligibility applications due Oct. 21, 2025, and final bids due Dec. 4, 2025. Conditional awards are expected in February 2026, with project selections announced once contracts are finalized.

New York’s existing pipeline of renewable resources includes 102 projects across solar, onshore wind, hydroelectric, and offshore wind, representing more than 9.7 gigawatts of capacity. Once completed, these projects will provide enough clean energy to power over 3 million homes. The new round of procurements is anticipated to drive over $5 billion in private investment and create more than 2,500 jobs in the state’s clean energy economy.

In addition to the solicitation, state agencies have been directed to intensify efforts to advance shovel-ready projects that may qualify for federal tax credits, which play a key role in reducing project costs for ratepayers. This whole-of-government approach will streamline permitting, financing, interconnection, and contracting processes, helping projects move more quickly into construction. By advancing this dual-track effort, state officials aim to stabilize energy prices while ensuring New York remains on course to meet its climate and clean energy targets.