Solar Liberty urges Cheektowaga to retain property tax exemption for renewable energy projects

The Town Board Meeting held on April 8, 2025, in Cheektowaga, NY, featured a significant discussion regarding the retention of the Real Property Tax Law (RPTL) 487 exemption, which is crucial for promoting solar energy projects in the area.

The meeting began with a presentation from Solar Liberty, a local solar and battery storage company based in Buffalo. The representative emphasized the importance of the RPTL 487 exemption, stating that it has been instrumental in enabling over 40 solar and battery installations in Cheektowaga. These projects have collectively saved the community more than $150,000 annually in electricity costs, a figure expected to rise as utility prices increase.

The speaker highlighted that the exemption allows property owners to avoid increased taxes on the assessed value of their properties, which could otherwise negate the financial benefits of adopting solar energy. They argued that removing this exemption would disproportionately affect homeowners and small businesses, making it more difficult for them to invest in renewable energy solutions.

Furthermore, the representative pointed out that the exemption not only supports residential projects but also small commercial systems, thereby fostering broader access to clean energy. They urged the board to consider the long-term benefits of retaining the exemption, including energy independence and resilience against rising utility costs and potential blackouts.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for the board to maintain the RPTL 487 exemption, reinforcing Cheektowaga's commitment to clean energy and supporting local families and businesses. The discussions underscored the town's leadership role in the clean energy community and the potential impact of policy decisions on the future of renewable energy adoption in the region.