To the Editor:

As a fifth-generation family farmer in Berne, I believe it is time for our town to embrace smart opportunities that will contribute to our town’s revenue and support our taxpayers. The solar project proposed for Jansen Lane offers exactly that.

This solar project is planned for one of the most suitable and secluded fields in town. It is designed to produce clean, fixed, discounted power for Berne residents that sign up for the electricity credits while bringing direct economic benefits to the town of Berne and our school district.

Through tax revenues and PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreements, the solar project will generate steady annual income for the town of Berne. This additional revenue can support public safety, critical infrastructure, and help the town gain access to matching funds. This is a meaningful way to grow our tax base without straining town resources.

The developer, RIC Energy, has been proactive in working with town leadership, neighbors, and infrastructure experts to ensure this project has minimal visibility from other’s properties, exceeded New York State’s fire codes, and follows the town’s zoning requirements. That level of accountability and financial responsibility should give neighbors peace of mind.

Beyond town revenues, Berne residents will also directly benefit. When the project connects to the grid, households and small businesses in Berne and the surrounding area will have the opportunity to subscribe to the project to receive solar credits on their monthly electric bills.

With no rooftop panels or equipment required, subscribers could save 5 to 20 percent each month. For a Berne household paying $150 per month to National Grid, that adds up to about $90 to $180 in yearly savings. This means real cost savings for Berne families, especially at a time when energy prices remain unpredictable.

For me, this project also means preserving our farmland for the next generation. It allows me to rest the fields, diversify income, and pay property taxes, while ensuring this land remains quiet, green, and productive in a new way. Instead of being forced to sell off farmland, this project helps keep it in the family for my children and grandchildren.

This isn’t just about my decision on what to do with my land. It’s about Berne’s future. In short, this solar project represents a win-win: lower electric bills, new revenue for our schools and town, cleaner air, and a stronger local grid for our town. This power would be made in Berne and used in Berne. I urge my fellow residents and town leaders to support this opportunity. 

Jody Jansen

Berne

Editor’s note: See related story.