NYAOT Executive Director Issues Statement on Signing of A.08332/S.8012 Regarding Renewable Energy System Assessments

New York Association of Towns Executive Director Christopher A. Koetzle issued the following statement on the bill that amends RPTL to modify the method by which solar and wind energy systems are assessed by requiring the use of a discounted cash flow approach. 

“The New York Association of Towns is troubled with the recent signing of A.8332/S.8012 into law. This bill shifts an additional tax burden onto local residents and further erodes the authority and fiscal stability of town governments. Local taxpayers should not be left subsidizing large-scale, multi-billion-dollar energy projects; particularly when those projects are already counted toward the state’s climate goals and benefit from substantial federal incentives.
We believe the objectives of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act can be achieved without further undermining local tax bases or diminishing home rule. Town governments are essential partners in delivering a comprehensive solution to the meeting the state's growing energy needs, and our members want to see renewable energy succeed in a way that is affordable, equitable and sustainable. We hope to work together toward solutions that advance renewable energy while protecting the fiscal integrity of the towns that serve New Yorkers every day.”