June 8, 2017
Illinois

People are concerned about possible wind farm

By Jennifer Jensen | Jun 07, 2017 | www.illinoishomepage.net

Wind farms have been popping up in Illinois for years, and now a new one might be coming to Douglas County.

Wednesday night, the company behind it held a public meeting to share their plans, and talk to people about their concerns. In the past, some who live near wind farms in Central Illinois have complained about them. At this meeting, the company wanted to share their side.

E.D.P. Renewables has wind farms and solar products all across the country. They’re in the business of selling electricity. Now they want to build a new wind farm near Newman and Murdock. Some are concerned about the noise and the look of the wind turbines. But the company says the benefits can outweigh that.

“Through taxes that are accrued by the county that we pay. So we’ll set up an agreement with the town and once we’re doing our permit process the county will get monetary benefits to upgrade roads, schools, public infrastructure, things of that nature.”

“If you live in the country then you don’t really want to look out your backyard and see that. I might be wrong. My mom and dad are fascinated by them because of watching them when you drive by in a car. But I’ve heard they’re loud and make a humming noise.”

They’re looking to build at least 58 turbines. The company hasn’t received a permit from the county yet. They’re still looking for farmers who want to lease the land they need. In order for E.D.P. Renewables to start building the wind farm, they first need to get permit approval from the city.

The company has already made several offers to local farmers for their land. They hope to start building in 2019.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2017/06/08/people-are-concerned-about-possible-wind-farm/