RIPLEY – The largest proposed solar project ever in Chautauqua County has gotten approval from the state.

Gov. Kathy Hochul Wednesday announced executed contracts for 26 large-scale, land based renewable energy projects. Among the projects listed includes South Ripley Solar project as well as the York Run Solar Project.

The South Ripley Solar Project is a 270-megawatt solar project in Ripley, while the York Run Solar Project is a 90-megawatt solar project in Busti and Kiantone.

Last month Hochul had announced the York Run Solar Project had received approval.

“New York is creating competitive opportunities for the clean energy industry, and we could not do this without the shared commitment of our private partners,” Hochul said in a news release. “The advancement of renewable energy is part of the foundation of New York’s plan to transform to a zero-emission electricity system and continue our green economy’s momentum forward.”

While local municipalities approve solar projects of 5 megawatts or smaller, these two needed state approvals.

See the full story in Thursday’s edition.