Encore Renewable Energy has partnered with EPC GreenSpark Solar on 3.6-MW agrivoltaic solar project sited in Constable, New York. Constable Solar is Encore’s first solar project in New York in a 90-MW pipeline of under development solar projects.

“With New York’s ambitious clean energy goals and an evolving energy supply market that is finding renewables to be an increasingly more cost-effective form of energy production, the demand for solar has never been higher,” said Chad Farrell, founder and co-CEO of Encore Renewable Energy. “Utilities are the tip of the spear when it comes to broader clean energy adoption, and delivering projects like this in partnership with NYSEG is critical for meeting increased energy demand at affordable costs for ratepayers.”

J&R Pierce Family Farm, of West Chazy, will provide sheep to rotationally graze the site to meet the vegetation management standards required for solar production. This agrivoltaic solution avoids the need for fossil fuel-powered mowers while improving the soil quality and boosting pollinator health on site.

“We’re looking forward to partnering with Encore on this agri-energy project,” said Rebekah Pierce of J&R Pierce Family Farm. “As a small family farm, these partnerships with local solar companies are vital for supporting our business and keeping land in agricultural production. We’re helping harvest the sun but also supporting the viability of our local food systems by producing a local, healthy and affordable source of meat for our community.”

The project site, formerly used for hay production, is owned by siblings Michelle, Danielle and Steve Sirois, who have maintained the land for 29 years

“This project provides an exciting opportunity to preserve our father’s land by putting it to good use by supporting clean energy in the community,” they said.

GreenSpark Solar has begun construction, with survey and civil activities underway.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Encore as a new portfolio partner and to kick off our first collaboration in Vermont, alongside another project in our home state of New York,” said Scott Abbett, co-owner GreenSpark Solar. “Our values-aligned partnership is highlighted through both teams’ designations as Certified B Corporations and member-owners within the nationwide Amicus Solar Cooperative. Working with Encore’s team of development experts makes it easy for GreenSpark to focus on building high-quality solar solutions for our shared projects.”

News item from GreenSpark Solar