NY A09087

Establishes uniform statewide standards for siting solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems of 5,000 kilowatts AC or less, prohibiting municipalities from adopting more restrictive requirements than those specified in the act

Sets maximum setback requirements municipalities may impose: 150 feet from occupied buildings on non-participating properties, 50 feet from public roads and non-participating property lines, and no setback from participating property boundaries

Requires municipalities to hold public hearings within 90 days of application filing and render siting decisions within 30 days after hearings conclude, applying "public utility" legal standards for approvals

Prohibits municipalities from requiring property value guarantees, devaluation escrow accounts, or conditioning approval on PILOT or community benefit agreements, and limits moratoria to a maximum of 12 months total

Requires project developers to offer host community residents first refusal rights for two months to subscribe to utility bill credits at discounted rates, and directs the Department of Environmental Conservation to develop wetland-specific permitting rules within 90 days