#United States #Renewable Energy #Montgomery #Lightstar Renewables #Agrivoltaics Project

Lightstar Renewables Launches New Agrivoltaics Project in New York

Lightstar Renewables LLC recently celebrated a significant achievement in the realms of sustainable agriculture and renewable energy with the launch of New York's first agrivoltaics project. This innovative initiative took place at the DiMartino Farm in Montgomery, marking a pivotal moment for the community and setting a precedent for future agricultural practices.

A Step Towards Sustainable Development

The ceremonial ribbon-cutting event attracted state officials, key agricultural leaders, and local farmers, uniting them in the spirit of collaboration towards clean energy solutions. This project exemplifies a new chapter in land use, where clean energy production and farming can co-exist harmoniously.

Meghan Hurlburt, Chief of Staff for Assembly Member Brian Maher, underscored the significance of this project, stating, "Today marks a turning point for sustainable development in New York. The Plains Road project demonstrates how we can honor our agricultural heritage while meeting our clean energy goals." Such endorsements from influential figures highlight the importance of political support in developing renewable energy initiatives.

A Model for Future Agricultural Practices

Linda Garrett, the New York New Jersey Regional Director at American Farmland Trust, also commended the project for its alignment with sustainable agricultural principles. She noted, "Lightstar has created a model that truly puts farmers first. This project showcases how solar development can enhance agricultural operations rather than compromise them." By facilitating hay planting and harvesting operations around its solar installation, the agrivoltaics project ensures that farming can thrive alongside renewable energy initiatives.

The project will not only add two acres for vegetable production, but it is also expected to generate enough clean energy to power 466 homes annually. This dual-purpose approach to land use opens up new avenues for local farming families, invigorating the community’s agricultural sector while promoting sustainability.

Iain Ward, a local farmer and CEO of Solar Agricultural Services, emphasized the project’s potential, stating, "This project proves that agrivoltaics can deliver real value to working farms. We're not just installing solar panels – we're creating new opportunities for agricultural innovation." His enthusiasm reflects the positive sentiment within the farming community about these new developments.

Encouraging Broader Community Engagement

Lucy Bullock-Sieger, Chief Strategy Officer at Lightstar, also urged other communities and farmers to consider similar agrivoltaics initiatives. She expressed, "Plains Road is just the beginning. We encourage municipalities and farmers across New York and beyond to explore how agrivoltaics can serve their unique needs and contribute to a more sustainable future." This call to action illustrates Lightstar's commitment to enhancing farming resilience through innovation.

About Lightstar Renewables

Founded in 2019, Lightstar Renewables is a leading company in community solar development, championing clean energy solutions that benefit communities, individuals, and the environment. With over 1 gigawatt of projects completed or under development, the company prioritizes sustainable practices and long-term partnerships to shape a greener future.

In sum, the launch of New York's first agrivoltaics project is not just a milestone for Lightstar Renewables; it represents a hopeful sign of progress towards integrating renewable energy within agricultural practices, promising a brighter future for both the environment and local farming families.