State OK’s Shepherd’s Run project, sets hearings

COPAKE — New York State granted the Shepherd’s Run solar project here a draft permit to build a 42-megawatt facility near the intersection of Routes 23 and 7, following years of back and forth that included project downsizing, notices of incomplete applications and community opposition.

Hecate Energy LLC is a Chicago-based developer of solar, wind and energy projects that proposed the Shepherd’s Run facility roughly eight years ago in 2017.

The state, which granted the draft permit on Nov. 18, found that the project complies with state requirements and “avoids, minimizes, or mitigates, to the maximum extent practicable, potential significant adverse environmental impacts.”

Public hearings have been scheduled for comment in January. Two will be virtual airings available on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Four in-person hearings are scheduled for 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, and Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, at Town Hall in Copake.

In a statement, Matt Levine, senior director of development for Hecate, said: “Hecate Energy appreciates the New York Office of Renewable Energy Siting’s issuance of the draft permit for the Shepherd’s Run Solar project. This is an important milestone in ORES’ comprehensive review process, and we remain committed to working closely with the State and local stakeholders as that process continues.”

Sensible Solar for Rural New York, a coalition of residents opposed to the project from its inception, issued a statement: “The Hudson Valley is the site of the latest battle between Governor Kathy Hochul’s steamroller approach to meeting New York State’s renewable energy goals, and community control over health, safety and quality of life.

“This draft permit should never become final,” said Sara Traberman of Sensible Solar.

“This proposed 215-acre solar project poses a direct smoke and fire threat to the more than 1000 students and teachers of the Taconic Hills Central Schools,” she said. The group also cites other environmental concerns and notes that elected officials in the region have stated their opposition to the project, including State Sen. Michelle Hinchey, D-41, and State Assemblymember Didi Barrett, D-106, among others. The Town of Copake has formally opposed the project.

Town of Copake Supervisor Richard Wolf wrote in his monthly “Solar Update” newsletter: “Whether supporting the Shepherd’s Run proposal or opposing it, people should make every effort to attend and make your feelings and thoughts known.”