Alternative Energy

Repurposing Former Power Plants for Renewable Energy Production

Former power plant sites are ideal candidates for renewable energy production, such as solar, wind, and battery storage.

Alternative energy reuse also aligns well with New York State’s clean energy goals , as well as with the growing number of state and federal programs and funding sources that are advancing a clean energy future. 

Advantages for Utilizing Power Plant Sites for Alternative Energy Production

• Existing electrical infrastructure: Former power plant sites have all the existing infrastructure to put electricity on the grid. Re-using power lines, transformers, and other equipment can be a huge cost-savings for renewable energy projects.
• Industrial land use: Communities often object to renewable energy projects like wind or solar farms on undeveloped land. Converting an existing industrial site, like a former power plant, to renewable energy may be easier.
• Size: Power plant sites typically sit on sizeable parcels of land, which is a good fit for renewable energy projects that often require lots of space. Redeveloping these sites is also a good way to make productive use of a property that might otherwise go unused.
• Cost: It’s now cheaper to build new renewable energy than it is to keep old power plants running. Additionally, there are many funding sources available for renewable energy production.