New York Power Authority, Solar and Battery Energy Storage Potential, Multiple Locations

Burns assessed the potential for solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage systems (BESS) at five water and wastewater treatment plants located across Southeastern New York.

Supporting the New York Power Authority (NYPA), Burns developed feasibility assessments on behalf of the City of New York and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP). The assessments focused on the following sites:

• Catskill-Delaware Water Ultraviolet Disinfection Facility
• Kensico Reservoir
• Port Jervis Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Margaretville Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Pine Hill Wastewater Treatment Plant

Feasibility assessments included:

• Analysis of each facility’s electricity usage and energy-generation potential
• Sizing estimates and shading pattern studies for ground, roof-mounted, and solar PV canopy/carport arrays
• Evaluation of BESS sizing and constructability
• Site constructability analysis, including studies of structural conditions and analysis of below-ground obstructions
• Interconnection feasibility studies, including analysis of electrical distribution infrastructure, energy loads and usage patterns, and potential for exporting power
• Reviews of construction schedules for upcoming capital projects and other planned activities

In 2021, NYPA and the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services announced plans to install more than 8.5 Megawatts (MW) of solar PV capacity across four city-owned water treatment facilities. Installations include projects at the Catskill-Delaware Water Ultraviolet Disinfection Facility, Margaretville Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Pine Hill Wastewater Treatment Plant.