Prince Edward County Council has granted the Prince Edward Solar 1 Solar Generation Project proposed by Prince Edward Solar 1 LP, a joint venture between Alectra Energy Solutions and Convergent Energy and Power, at 772 Clarke Rd.
The decision came on Tuesday evening at Shire Hall.
The project proposes to locate solar panels that will generate up to 15 MW on the subject lands. The project will participate in satisfying energy demand that is forecasted to increase 75% by 2050 in Ontario.
This infrastructure project will bring significant investment and local benefits including employment, lease payments, and capital spending in the local economy.
The proposed project will consist of photovoltaic panels on 70-80 acres of existing fields on the subject lands. The proponent has committed to planting additional trees to provide additional visual screening of the project.
The subject lands are approximately 72.8 ha (180 acres) in area and designated Rural in the Official Plan. The proposed solar project will occupy approximately 70-80 acres of the property. The site is located in a rural area with few neighbours in close proximity. The lands are currently farmed. Most of the soils on the property are Soil Class 6 with some Soil Class 5 soils.
There is no financial impact related to this project. The municipality will receive payments based on a Community Benefit Agreement and will benefit from an increased tax base.
Council meets again on Sep 23 at Shire Hall.
(HAILEY MACDONALD)
