What is ORES?
The Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES) is a New York State agency created in 2020 to streamline the permitting of large-scale renewable energy projects. It operates under the Department of State.
ORES at a Glance
- Created: 2020 (Accelerated Renewable Energy Growth Act)
- Jurisdiction: Solar projects 25 MW and larger
- Purpose: Unified state-level permitting for major renewables
- Website: ores.ny.gov
Why State-Level Permitting?
Before ORES, large renewable projects had to navigate a patchwork of local approvals. This created problems:
- Inconsistent standards across municipalities
- Years-long delays for clean energy projects
- Small groups could block projects essential to state climate goals
- New York was falling behind on renewable energy targets
The state recognized that meeting climate mandates required a more efficient process—one that still protects communities and the environment, but prevents indefinite local obstruction.
The ORES Process
Step 1: Pre-Application
Developer conducts environmental studies, community outreach, and prepares comprehensive application materials. This often takes 1-2 years.
Step 2: Application Submission
A complete application includes:
- Environmental impact studies
- Visual impact assessments
- Wetland and wildlife surveys
- Stormwater management plans
- Decommissioning plans and financial assurance
- Community benefit agreements
Step 3: Completeness Review
ORES reviews the application for completeness. If information is missing, the application is returned for revisions. This ensures thorough review before proceeding.
Step 4: Public Comment Period
The public can submit comments, and ORES may hold public hearings. This is your opportunity to have your voice heard—whether you support or oppose the project.
Step 5: Agency Review
ORES coordinates with other agencies (DEC, DOT, Agriculture & Markets, etc.) to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
Step 6: Decision
ORES issues a permit (with conditions), requests modifications, or denies the application. Approved projects must comply with all permit conditions.
What ORES Reviews
| Category | What's Evaluated |
|---|---|
| Environmental | Wetlands, wildlife, water quality, erosion control |
| Visual | Visibility from roads, homes, scenic areas; screening requirements |
| Agricultural | Impacts on farmland, soil protection, agrivoltaics plans |
| Safety | Fire safety, electrical safety, emergency access |
| Transportation | Road impacts during construction, traffic management |
| Decommissioning | End-of-life plans, financial bonds, site restoration |
| Community | Host community benefits, local input, economic impacts |
Local Laws and ORES
A common concern: "Does ORES override local zoning?"
ORES can determine that specific local laws are "unreasonably burdensome" to meeting state climate goals. However:
- Developers must justify each request to override local requirements
- ORES often imposes equivalent or stricter conditions
- Environmental and safety standards still apply
- Communities still participate through public comment
This isn't a free pass for developers—it's a balance between local control and statewide climate imperatives.
How to Participate
View Applications
All ORES applications and documents are public. Visit ores.ny.gov/permit-applications to search by project name or location.
Submit Comments
During public comment periods, anyone can submit written comments. ORES must consider and respond to substantive comments in their decision.
Attend Hearings
For major projects, ORES holds public hearings (often virtual). Check project pages for scheduled dates.
Shepherd's Run at ORES
The Shepherd's Run solar project in Copake is currently under ORES review.
- Case Number: 21-02553
- Status: Under review (revised application submitted December 2024)
- View documents at ORES →