Briefings
What changed in environmental, land-use and permitting rules for development in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania: what happened, who is affected and the next date that matters.
- MediumConnecticut
Connecticut approves Ellington orchard solar as farm agency says it cannot review non-prime soils
The Siting Council approved a 4.99-megawatt array on an orchard with soils of statewide importance, which fall outside the agriculture department's review, and applied the 2026 emergency-contact rule.
- MediumConnecticut
Federal: Habitat damage no longer counts as 'harm' to listed species; states including Connecticut sue
The rescission took effect September 14, 2026 and applies to the four states. Habitat modification alone no longer counts as prohibited take under federal rules, but consultation and critical habitat duties remain. A state coalition including CT, NJ and NY has challenged it.
- MediumWindham County, CT
Connecticut Siting Council closes record on 50-megawatt Sterling-Plainfield solar plan; decision due by February 2027
Docket 550, a 50-megawatt solar project on nine parcels in Sterling and Plainfield, closed its evidentiary record on August 11, 2026. About 43 to 45 acres of core forest would be cleared, the main contested point. The Council's final decision deadline, extended with the applicant's consent, is February 17, 2027.
- MediumConnecticut
Connecticut approves Simsbury golf-course solar on prime farmland soils after developer pledges beekeeping and crops
The Siting Council approved a 4.65-megawatt array on a former golf course after the agriculture department relied on planned farming, and required a bond to restore the prime soils.