By Blake Jackson
Hecate Energy, a leading renewable energy company, has selected PEC Construction Management to deliver engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services for the Cider Solar Farm in New York. Once operational, the project will become the largest solar facility in the state, with a planned capacity of 674MWdc (500MWac).
PEC has begun preparing the site for construction, following a delay in the project timeline. Originally scheduled to start in November 2024, construction was postponed due to the time taken for permitting and financing. The New York Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Transmission (ORES) granted a siting permit in February, allowing the project to move forward. Additionally, Greenbacker Renewable Energy, an independent power producer (IPP), agreed to provide nearly US$1 billion in project financing.
“We are honored to have been chosen by leading developer Hecate Energy to oversee the construction of this monumental project in support of New York’s renewable energy goals,” said PEC founder and principal Eddie Pease. “Our dispatched team that specializes in various disciplines including HV/MV electrical, transmission, substation, civil and mechanical, is dedicated to setting a high standard of compliance that may serve as a model for similar projects throughout the state to follow.”
Although specific timelines for the project's completion have not been released, the solar sector continues to witness advancements in construction methods. Innovations such as automated construction robots and high-voltage equipment are gaining interest. For instance, Array Technologies recently invested US$3 million into Swap Robotics for robotic construction solutions. Meanwhile, equipment manufacturers are exploring systems that support higher voltages, potentially changing how solar panels are installed.
Industry discussions around such developments will continue at the upcoming Large Scale Solar USA event, hosted by PV Tech publisher Solar Media. Scheduled for April 29–30 in Dallas, Texas, the event will address topics such as tariffs, tax credits, domestic manufacturing, and project permitting.
With construction now underway, the Cider Solar Farm is set to play a key role in advancing New York’s clean energy ambitions.
Photo Credit: istock-shansekala
Categories: New York, Energy