Amherst-based developer Uniland Development Company has begun construction of a five-megawatt solar farm at 255 Ship Canal Parkway in Buffalo Lakeside Commerce Park. The development will be the first large-scale solar farm within the City of Buffalo.
Uniland purchased the 20.3-acre property from the Buffalo Urban Development Corporation (BUDC) in August 2021. The site will generate electricity to power the equivalent of approximately 800 households.
“This is an exciting project for the City of Buffalo and future development of the region.” noted Uniland CEO Michael J. Montante. “Not only are we improving an underused property and giving it new life, but we’re doing so with a vision towards the future of the city.”
Mayor Byron W. Brown, who serves as Chair of the BUDC Board of Directors, said the ground-breaking urban renewable energy project will make Buffalo Lakeside Commerce Park even more attractive to tenants, while creating construction job opportunities for city residents.
“The additional energy brought to the site as a result of this project make this business park a competitive and viable option for companies looking for sites in Buffalo, furthering the economic vitality of our region,” Mayor Brown said. “This renewable energy project also complements my Administration’s efforts to attain a New York State Clean Energy Designation.”
“The system, which is one of the first of its kind within Buffalo’s city limits, enhances the vitality of the Business Park and returns the underutilized property to the City of Buffalo tax rolls,” said BUDC President Brandye Merriweather.
Uniland has hired Solar Liberty, an Amherst-based regional solar company, as installer for the site.
“As a tenant of Uniland’s for over 15 years, Solar Liberty witnesses the ongoing efforts Uniland takes to remain at the forefront of sustainable development,” said Nathan T. Rizzo, Co-Founder and Vice President of Solar Liberty. “We are very proud to further our partnership with Uniland through the construction of the solar array at the Ship Canal Parkway. Uniland’s solar system will not only reduce their electrical costs but further their stewardship and commitment to a better environment.”
The solar farm is expected to be operational in spring 2022.
