Case Study

Cider Solar Project

Location Genesee County, NY
Technology Solar
Scale 500 MWac
COD December 2026 (anticipated)
Project overview

Largest onshore renewable energy project in New York State

Hecate successfully developed, permitted, and is managing construction for Cider Solar, a 500 MWac project on approximately 4,000 acres in Genesee County. The project is expected to offset over 400,000 tons of CO2 per year while delivering significant revenue to local governments, including Genesee County and the towns of Elba and Oakfield.

Key outcomes
  • First renewable project to secure permits through NY ORES 94-c (now Article VIII).
  • Sold to Greenbacker Renewable Energy Company upon completion of development (2024).
  • Over $950M in construction and tax equity financing arranged by buyer.
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Milestones

A disciplined path from siting to COD

From siting and permitting through financing and construction management, the Cider Solar schedule reflects a full-lifecycle development approach focused on deliverability.

Permitting breakthrough

First renewable project to achieve permits through NY ORES 94-c (now Article VIII).

Development completed (2024)

Hecate completed development and sold the project to Greenbacker Renewable Energy Company.

Construction → COD

Hecate is managing construction with anticipated commercial operations in December 2026.

Community

Built with long-term local value

Local revenue

Delivers meaningful revenue to Genesee County and the towns of Elba and Oakfield.

Emissions impact

Expected to offset more than 400,000 tons of CO2 annually.

Deliverability

Sized and structured for utility-scale performance with a clear route to COD.

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