The Executive and Legislative Committee met Thursday night and advanced several items for a full vote at the October County Board Meeting. The Committee approved the Rankin-Hoopeston area Invenergy Musketeer wind application. Invenergy unlike other developers will both own and operate the project, providing some continuity. Invenergy already operates a wind project in the general area. This will be an adjunct to their operations.
With many wind or solar projects, there are concerns about battery storage, a relatively new add on technology to some projects. As a part of the agreement with Invenergy, there is a working agreement to aid local fire responders with information, training, equipment and possible reimbursement if needed after any fire. The main goal in the event of a fire is to limit its scope and there will be training and help in that event.
A provision to use ALS technology for aircraft may limit the flashing red lights for wind project and this will be employed here. The new technology will turn on the flashing red lights only when aircraft are within range. While the FAA controls that process, an application will be made as part of the permitting process. Other adjunct agreements for separate wind or solar projects will be forwarded to the County Board for approval.
There was a discussion about the ability of townships to exercise their zoning rights in the absence of the County zoning laws. The courts will ultimately need to decide the question, but attorney Andrew Keyt who was hired to represent the County on these issues, suggested there was a good argument for the authority of township zoning to stand if they ruled against wind or solar projects. The question remains open until courts weigh in on the new statutes, however.