NY A10505

Creates a nine-member Distributed Generation for Community Solar Siting Commission appointed by the Governor (3 members), Senate Temporary President (2 members), Assembly Speaker (2 members), Senate Minority Leader (1 member), and Assembly Minority Leader (1 member).

Commission must examine reasons for delays in community solar project siting and identify solutions to accelerate development, including evaluating state subsidy levels, local siting processes, utility interconnection roles, and whether the Office of Renewable Energy Siting Authority should be expanded to smaller projects.

Commission shall hold hearings in each region of the state as defined by regional economic development councils, with invited witnesses and opportunities for public comment in person or in writing.

Commission must deliver a report to the Governor and Legislature within one year of the effective date that analyzes community solar development, outlines challenges, and makes recommendations for policy, law, procedure, and regulatory changes to increase development and incentivize local community support.

Commission staff shall be provided by the Energy and Research Development Authority; members receive no compensation but may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses.