Onondaga County legislators to vote on opting out of tax exemption for renewable energy projects, while global initiatives in Kenya, the UK, USA, and Sunderland reflect a push towards sustainability and infrastructure development.
Onondaga County legislators in Syracuse, N.Y., are scheduled to vote today on whether to opt out of a state law that exempts commercial wind and solar farms from property taxes. This change could require future renewable energy developments in the county to pay full property taxes, potentially making the county less attractive to these projects. County officials state the move aims to simplify taxation for renewable energy projects.
Kenya: GivePower and Silfab Solar celebrated their partnership with the launch of the Makindu Solar Water Farm Mobi+ in Makueni County, Kenya, last month. This project, which began in 2020, now provides clean drinking water to over 26,000 people. Over the years, Silfab has donated 1,955 solar panels, supporting projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, and Kenya.
United Kingdom: Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club is finalizing timelines for refurbishing the Members’ Pavilion at Trent Bridge, approved by Rushcliffe Borough Council on June 28. The plans include partial demolition and expansion to six floors, improving player and official facilities, hospitality spaces, and accessibility, aligning with ECB standards.
Maine, USA: Vandals caused significant damage to a solar farm in New Gloucester on Sunday night, using construction machinery to damage the installation at Novel Energy Solutions Solar Farm. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office is investigating and seeking information from the public.
In a push towards sustainability, Sunderland AFC submitted a planning application to South Tyneside Council for a solar farm at the Academy of Light. The proposed 40MWe facility aims to provide clean energy for up to 9,700 homes, contribute to regional climate goals, and support local jobs. The planning application includes a community benefits package of £15,000 per annum for local charities.
These developments highlight growing efforts to enhance sustainability and infrastructure across various regions.