Solar Panels. PC: Fox 11 Online
OCONTO COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The Wisconsin Public Service Commission spent Thursday afternoon listening to community members weigh in on a proposed solar farm in Oconto County.
Fox Solar put in an application to build a solar farm in Morgan, about 15 miles southwest of Oconto Falls. It would be able to generate 100 megawatts.
“This is probably the worst site you could pick in Oconto County,” said Bruce Jeske.
Along with over 208,000 panels, the solar farm would consist of a collector substation, generation tie line and battery energy storage system. The proposed area of land covers more than 500 acres.
Ultimately, the final decision to move forward with the project falls on the Wisconsin Public Service Commission. On Thursday, the public had the chance to speak directly to the PSC. Two meetings were held at the Oconto Falls Senior & Community Center.
A majority of the concerns brought forward were environmental.
“The land is not just open space on a map. It is prime agricultural land — carefully maintained, tiled. Productive ground that has fed families and livestock and supported farmers for generations,” said Jolene Barkhaus.
“The surface drainage in that area of the south is wetlands off across the CC road. If anything gets in there, it drains right into the Oconto River. That’s a major fishery,” said Jeske.
However, not everyone was against the project. Adam Jordahl, director of energy policy for Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, appeared virtually. He says WMC would support the solar farm.
“Provided that the Commission finds that the project maintains the delivery of reliable energy to Wisconsin customers and does not result in significant increases for ratepayers,” said Jordahl.
If you were unable to make it to the Thursday meetings, there are still opportunities for your voice to be heard. Written comments may be submitted online through Monday.
There’s no official date for the PSC’s decision. However, their order must be filed by May 4. If approved, Fox Solar anticipates construction on the project would begin in 2027, with an estimated completion date of late 2028.
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