The promotion and increased use of renewable energy sources, like solar energy, is an essential part of both New York State’s and the City of Peekskill’s climate goals. Historically, solar energy development has followed the same models of ownership and management as fossil fuel energy; through this project Peekskill hopes to pursue another approach to solar development. The overarching goal in creating a Community Owned Solar Program for the City of Peekskill is to promote a more equitable and decentralized clean energy transition for the city, which both creates a source of revenue which Peekskill will dedicate to the benefit of disadvantaged residents of the city, and gives Peekskill access to a more resilient energy system.