Will County Board approves solar farms near Manhattan, New Lenox

The Will County Board has taken a step forward in advancing solar energy projects near Manhattan and New Lenox. On Thursday, the board voted to support plans by two companies to build solar farms on vacant land. Soltage plans to develop two 5-megawatt solar facilities on 69 acres near Manhattan. This site is located at the intersection of West Manhattan Road and South Cherry Hill Road. The land, previously used for farming, will be leased for up to 40 years. While Green Glen Nursery has expressed support for the project, the Manhattan Village Board is against it. They argue the area should be used for commercial development instead. Manhattan Township has not opposed the solar farms but has made requests for enhancements. They want to see evergreen trees and shrubs planted as a buffer, along with a 6-foot tall chain-link fence for security. Soltage has agreed to these conditions. The county documents also state that a line of credit will be established for maintaining the landscaping. The planned solar facilities are expected to generate enough electricity for about 2,000 homes and create around 75 jobs during construction. The projects will also include planting native grasses around the solar panels to promote biodiversity and support wildlife. In addition, the county board approved a solar project by ECA Solar and New Lenox Community Energy Initiative on almost 35 acres near New Lenox. The New Lenox Village Board did not oppose this project and made similar requests for fencing and greenery. While both projects were approved without public opposition, board member Judy Ogalla expressed concerns. She argued that local officials should have more control over such decisions. Ogalla, who is also a farmer, believes solar projects are not suitable for agricultural land. Despite her objections, the projects were supported by the majority of the board.