Rockford Sun

Lawmakers in [state] have successfully restored protections for farmers and landowners in the field of renewable energy. This comes after a controversial law, supported by the Governor, had stripped away local control over wind and solar farms.

State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) has been a vocal advocate for returning power to local governments. He explains, "Senate Bill 1699 was necessary to undo some of the damage caused by the Governor's green energy push. While this legislation is a positive step, we must continue to fight for the restoration of local control over wind and solar projects."

The newly passed Senate Bill 1699 enforces measures to safeguard the interests of farmers and landowners. It requires wind and solar developers to take responsibility for planning and repairing agricultural crop losses, as well as damages to subsurface drainage systems. Additionally, these developers will be required to restore surface drainage caused by the construction and deconstruction of their facilities.

The legislation received unanimous support from both the Senate and the House of Representatives, highlighting its broad consensus. As part of the bill, a study will be conducted to assess the potential impact of proposals on the stability and reliability of the state's electrical grid.

Furthermore, the legislation includes a technical change that benefits the Adjustable Block Program. This change allows for the inclusion of at least 15 percent renewable generation on public school land, expanding the program beyond just public schools. Senator Syverson believes this modification will provide an opportunity for schools to invest in solar or wind projects and reduce their utility expenses.

The restoration of local control over green energy projects marks a significant victory for farmers, landowners, and communities in [state]. By putting power back into the hands of local governments, decision-making processes can be more transparent and inclusive. As the state continues to prioritize renewable energy, it is crucial to ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are protected.

This legislation serves as a crucial step in the right direction, but it is clear that more work needs to be done. Senator Syverson and other advocates will continue to push for further measures that restore local control and promote a sustainable and prosperous future for [state]'s green energy sector.

To find out more, go to this link: https://senatordavesyverson.com/2023/11/21/restoring-local-control-over-green-energy-projects/