New York Power Authority Took Majority Rich Road Stake

The state authority partnered with EDF to advance the 240-megawatt solar project in St. Lawrence County.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Utilities

Isometric editorial illustration of rows of solar panels across a vast field, representing a large-scale renewable energy infrastructure project. — The New York Power Authority has acquired a 51 percent majority stake in the 1,400-acre Rich Road Solar project in St. Lawrence County, partnering with EDF Power Solutions. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The New York Power Authority has acquired a 51 percent majority stake in the 1,400-acre Rich Road Solar project. EDF Power Solutions remains a minority partner and will oversee construction of the facility in Canton.

Why it matters

The partnership is designed to secure expiring federal tax credits for the renewable project while adhering to state-mandated ownership structures. It serves as a key implementation of the public-private model authorized in the 2023-24 state budget.

The Rich Road Solar project is slated for a 240-megawatt capacity across a 1,400-acre site. The agreement mandates $1.2 million in host community benefits over 10 years and $300,000 in annual contributions to the REACH program.

The players

New York Power Authority

This public power organization is the largest state-owned electric utility in the United States.

EDF Power Solutions

This entity is a major international energy company that specializes in renewable power development and infrastructure management.

NYSERDA

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority promotes energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources.

The details

The project secured a 20-year Tier-1 Renewable Energy Certificates contract through a 2025 NYSERDA request for proposals. Ownership was finalized through the New York Renewable Energy Development Holdings Corporation to align with legislative requirements.

The 2023-24 state budget enacted the public-private partnership model utilized here.
NYSERDA issued its renewable energy request for proposals in 2025.
The majority ownership deal was announced on September 28, 2026.
Construction is expected to commence in late 2027.
The solar facility is expected to begin operating in 2029.

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Market Landscape

This deal follows the mandates set by the 2023-24 Enacted State Budget to increase state-led oversight of renewable energy projects. By taking a majority stake, the New York Power Authority positions itself to exert greater control over the state's transition to green infrastructure.

Local residents in Canton stand to receive $1.2 million in electricity benefit payments during the first decade of the project's operation. Additionally, the project will generate over 250 union construction jobs for the regional workforce.

The takeaway

The project demonstrates how state governments are leveraging public-private partnerships to secure federal tax incentives for renewable energy. Residents should monitor local job postings for the project as the 2027 start date approaches.