Navigating Solar Lease Agreements and the Solar Development Process
Tuesday, October 26, 2021
9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County
480 North Main Street
Canandaigua, NY 14424
Canandaigua, NY – Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County is offering Navigating solar lease agreements and the solar development process: a program for NY farmers and rural landowners on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, 9:30 am – 1:30 pm. This in-person opportunity is being held at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Office, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
The expansion of solar energy across New York is changing land use patterns in rural areas. Landowners are receiving lease proposals from developers, but many do not have the information they need to make informed decisions. The impact of solar development on farms is a statewide issue, yet individual communities face different opportunities and challenges depending on local context.
In response to these trends, the CCE Farm Business Management group is organizing live presentations from expert speakers via webinars and offering support for county staff to facilitate in-person meetings. This information will assist farmers and rural landowners to get answers to solar leasing questions to make informed decisions and negotiate solar lease agreements. CCE Ontario County will provide a virtual option for attendees that would like to participate in the meeting from a remote location.
To register, email Deanna at drg228@cornell.edu. At the time you register, indicate your preference in-person or virtual. There is no charge for this program.
The Meeting Agenda and Speakers:
9:30-10:15 am: Understanding the Solar Development Process and What Solar Companies are Looking For, Loren Pruskowski, farmer and solar industry representative with Ecolegacy Values. Loren is also the general contractor installing a solar array on his Guilderland, NY farm.
10:15-11:00 am:
Understanding Solar Lease Agreements and Tips for Negotiating a Contract, Scott Kurkoski, Assistant Managing Partner, Levene, Gouldin & Thompson, LLP. Scott got his start representing landowners in the fracking industry and has spent years assisting farmers and rural landowners in negotiating contracts with solar companies.
11:00-11:30 am: Q &A with morning presenters.
11:30 am – 12:30 pm is a break (you are welcome to bring a bag lunch).
12:30-1:30 pm:
How Municipal Regulations Affect Solar Development Opportunities at the Local Level, with Jeffrey Kehoe, NYS Department of Ag and Markets. Learn how regulations at the local level can encourage, hinder, or otherwise influence solar development.
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