#USA #Montgomery #Lightstar Renewables #Agrivoltaics #Montgomery NY

Lightstar Renewables Launches the Plains Road Agrivoltaics Project

Lightstar Renewables LLC has made a significant stride in sustainable energy and agriculture by launching the groundbreaking Plains Road Agrivoltaics project in Montgomery, New York. This landmark initiative merges solar energy production with agricultural practices on the DiMartino Farm, establishing a model that could revolutionize how farming and clean energy coexist.

Designed from the outset to cater to agricultural needs, the project highlights the potential for solar installations to work harmoniously with farming operations. The sophisticated design of the solar panels allows for the seamless use of essential farming equipment, particularly for hay planting and harvesting, which are the primary activities of the DiMartino Farm. Moreover, the project will introduce two additional acres dedicated to vegetable production, welcoming new farmers into the fold and enriching the local agricultural landscape.

As a part of this innovative approach, the Plains Road Agrivoltaics project anticipates generating enough energy to power approximately 466 homes each year while simultaneously enhancing the long-term sustainability of the farm itself. The initiative is a testament to the potential of integrating renewable energy sources into traditional agricultural practices, thereby promoting a synergistic relationship between food production and energy generation.

Lucy Bullock-Sieger, Chief Strategy Officer at Lightstar, stated, "Plains Road represents a pioneering effort to balance the needs of farmers with sustainable energy solutions. It showcases the possibilities when the agricultural community is supported in creative ways, merging the goals of food production with clean energy generation."

A pivotal factor for this project's success was the adaptation of local regulations, enabling the implementation of agrivoltaics in Montgomery. The town has become one of the first in New York to tailor its bylaws specifically for such initiatives, allowing increased agricultural output while setting guidelines for solar project height, setbacks, and lot coverage. This reflects a broader trend in municipal governance that recognizes the potential of innovative land-use strategies to address the challenges posed by traditional solar deployments.

Lightstar's commitment to responsible development aligns closely with the American Farmland Trust's Smart Solar principles. Linda Garrett, the Regional Director of AFT for New York and New Jersey, remarked, "This project exemplifies our commitment to developing partnerships that benefit both the agricultural sector and the broader community, ensuring that local heritage is preserved alongside clean energy advancements."

Beyond its immediate impact, the Plains Road Agrivoltaics project aims to serve as a benchmark for sustainable development practices, not only in New York but across the nation. Lightstar Renewables is empowering farm families like the DiMartinos, helping them achieve economic stability while fostering a reliable and sustainable energy infrastructure. This dual-purpose approach can reinforce rural communities, support thriving agricultural enterprises, and enhance grid reliability.

To commemorate this pioneering initiative, Lightstar is planning a ribbon-cutting ceremony in September 2025. This event will not just mark the project’s official launch but will also highlight the collaboration that has taken place among various stakeholders, including local government representatives and renewable energy advocates.

Special Guests at the Ribbon Cutting

• - Assembly Member Brian Maher: A key leader in facilitating the project's development.
• - Representatives from American Farmland Trust (AFT): Advocates for farmland preservation and sustainable agriculture.
• - Iain Ward: Founder and CEO of Solar Agricultural Services, Inc., the agricultural consultant for the project.

Significance of the Launch

1. Innovation in Agrivoltaics: Observe how this project uniquely balances agricultural activities with renewable energy generation.
2. Community-Driven Development: The project is a collaboration that embodies local community values and agricultural priorities.
3. A Template for Future Projects: This initiative sets a standard for sustainable development, showcasing how economic growth can coexist alongside environmental stewardship.

What You Can Expect

Participants at the event will gain exclusive insights into the innovative technologies employed in the project and hear directly from the key players who brought this vision to life. Together, we can explore the broader implications for the future of farming and renewable energy in tandem.

For more information on the Plains Road Agrivoltaics project and Lightstar Renewables’ commitment to creating community-focused solar solutions, visit lightstar.com.

Founded in 2019 and based in Boston, Lightstar Renewables is on the cutting edge of community solar development, focusing on creating clean energy solutions that contribute positively to landowners, communities, and the environment. With a substantial portfolio of projects completed or in progress, Lightstar remains dedicated to sustainable practices and long-term partnerships for a resilient energy future.