To the Readers’ Forum:

As one of the original 13 states, New York is no stranger to taking its place at the front of innovation in the United States. As a tried-and-true New Yorker growing up in Arkwright in Chautauqua County, I find myself experiencing progress first-hand, especially in clean energy.

When celebrating National New York Day, let’s recognize innovative technologies like renewable energy that not only provide an essential resource but also establish and maintain community in our great state.

New York is a renewable energy production leader in the United States, and one of the many successful projects within our great state is EDP Renewables North America’s (EDPR NA) Arkwright Summit Wind Farm, where I work.

Arkwright Summit generates enough energy to power the equivalent of more than 33,000 average New York homes every year, and beyond being a reliable energy production source, wind farms like Arkwright Summit are a direct investment into the local economy and community.

Being a town local, I love seeing what this wind farm has done for the area.

Arkwright Summit has disbursed more than $780,000 to local governments, funding our local schools, emergency services, and road infrastructure. In addition, the money spent within 50 miles of the wind farm circulates in towns across the county, helping support the local vendors, stores, and restaurants to stay in operation and thrive in their businesses.

Renewable energy remains community and economy-focused, placing New York ahead in the race for innovation and opportunity for all.

Fredonia