Background Info

 

Utility-Scale Solar Project Proposed in Franklin Township, Ohio

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The Kensington Solar was a solar project proposed by the company Liberty, a subsidiary of the Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (“APUC”) located in Canada. They are a non-regulated independent power producer that owns/has an interest in a portfolio of North American contracted wind, solar, hydroelectric, and natural gas-powered generating facilities. This project was to be located in Franklin Township, Columbiana County, Ohio, near the village of Summitville. The Project Area was to consist of approximately 2,264 acres of private land, secured under long-term lease and easement agreements with 6 landowners and approximately 30 parcels. The company has since filed with the OPSB on 9/19/2024 to withdraw the project application.

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FAKS Mission Statement

To provide Franklin Township community members and concerned citizens with an avenue to oppose the utility-scale solar project and preserve the agricultural, historical, and natural values they hold and wish to keep.

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Complex Considerations

FAKS recognizes the need to encourage and develop renewable energy sources at the local, regional, and national levels. We acknowledge that the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) is the statewide authority that considers projects of this size and decides which projects will be developed and where those projects will be located. As rural neighbors and citizens, we are interested in educating ourselves and others about the possible environmental, economic, and cultural implications of utility-scale solar installations. What are the “best practices” associated with USSA projects such as the one proposed for our neighborhood? How and in what ways do individual rights intersect with the rights of the greater community? Should large solar projects be sited in locations other than green space?

FAKS participated in the OPSB review process and had our voices heard as the Board considered the Kensington energy project. We raised questions, provided input about short-term and long-term concerns, and empowered residents to do the same.  We also hoped to serve as a grassroots role model for residents in other regions in Ohio who will be considering the possible ramifications of industrial and utility-scale energy projects in their front and back yards.

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The standard application used by the OPSB is described below. Download an interactive chart here with links to Ohio law and OPSB administrative rules that govern this process. This project, as of 9/19/2024, been removed from the docket, and the application has been withdrawn

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