Young/Sommer Celebrates Milestone at Morris Ridge Solar Project Launch
Posted on June 6, 2025
On June 4, 2025, the Morris Ridge Solar Project in Mount Morris, New York, celebrated its official ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the state’s renewable energy efforts. The event highlighted the project’s role in advancing clean energy and featured key stakeholders, including Jim Muscato, head of the energy practice at Young/Sommer LLC, who, with colleague Jessica Klami, played a pivotal role in the project’s development. The event was attended by several prominent figures in the renewable energy sector, including Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), and Zeryai Hagos, Executive Director of the Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission at the New York State Department of Public Service. Additional attendees included representatives John Hecklau, Caitlin Graff, Dan Zvirzdin and Derrick Williams from EDR. EDR was instrumental on environmental consulting for the Project from the outset through to construction and operation.
The Morris Ridge Solar Project, developed by EDF Renewables North America, boasts a capacity of 229 megawatts (MWdc) / 177 MWac. Located in Livingston County, the facility is expected to generate enough clean electricity to power over 47,000 New York households. The project not only contributes to the state’s goal of achieving 70% renewable electricity by 2030 but also brings substantial economic benefits to the local community. During its construction phase, Morris Ridge Solar provided jobs for 550 people, resulting in over $22 million in union wages, and is projected to contribute $18.6 million to local municipalities over its operational life.
Jim Muscato, Jessica Klami and Steve Wilson’s involvement was instrumental in navigating the complex permitting process required for such a large-scale renewable energy project. As permitting counsel for Morris Ridge Solar Energy Center, LLC, Young/Sommer’s expertise ensured compliance with New York State’s regulatory frameworks, facilitating the project’s progression from conception to completion. Doreen M. Harris, in her remarks at the ceremony, emphasized the project’s role in advancing New York’s clean energy goals and its positive impact on the local community. Zeryai Hagos also highlighted the significance of the project in the state’s renewable energy landscape and emphasized the importance of EDF’s longstanding partnership and engagement with the Town of Mount Morris.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony not only celebrated the operational launch of the largest solar project in New York State but also underscored the collaborative efforts of legal experts, developers, and community stakeholders in driving the state’s renewable energy initiatives forward.
