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Lightstar Renewables, a leading community solar developer based in Boston, has announced the successful permitting of a 4.95 MW agrivoltaic community solar project in Illinois. The Nesler Road project, spanning 36 acres, is poised to generate clean, renewable solar energy to power approximately 1,100 homes in Illinois annually, while simultaneously cultivating hay.
The special use permit application for the project was submitted to Kane County in October 2023 and received unanimous approval from the County Board on March 12th, 2024, following endorsements from the county zoning board of appeals and county development committee.
Cecelia Stephens, development manager at Lightstar, expressed the project’s significance in preserving agricultural land while promoting energy independence and resilience within the community. She emphasized the project’s role in showcasing rural communities as drivers of economic development while honoring their agricultural heritage.
Addressing concerns raised by neighbors, Lightstar Renewables took proactive measures to mitigate potential impacts on property values and address worries from nearby horse farms regarding viewshed and sound disturbances. Revised site plans, property value studies, sound assessments, and comprehensive landscaping plans were presented to alleviate concerns, resulting in a successful resolution.
The next phase for the project involves capacity allocation through the Illinois Adjustable Block Program, also known as Illinois Shines. Upon capacity award, construction is expected to commence as early as Q4 2024.
Given its agrivoltaic nature, the project will utilize a single-axis tracker system elevated 4 to 10 feet, facilitating the cultivation and harvesting of hay beneath the solar panels. Lightstar Renewables has meticulously engineered the project to ensure safe operation of farming equipment within the array.
Nesler Road Solar LLC, a subsidiary of Lightstar Renewables, owns and operates the project, intending to oversee its operation throughout its lifetime.
With operations spanning 15 states and boasting a 1 GW pipeline, Lightstar Renewables continues to expand its footprint in the renewable energy sector. In September, the company announced its acquisition by an affiliate of Eagle Creek Renewable Energy, a subsidiary of Ontario Power Generation. |
