Elmridge Golf Course has partnered with Greenskies Clean Energy LLC to install a three megawatt Utility Scale Solar Thermal Power Facility on the property.
- Setting a Precedent for locations: Solar Power Facilities of this nature are not normally sited in or abutting residential neighborhoods. They are normally sited in brownfield sites such as landfills, along highways and low impact areas. This could set a precedent in Stonington, allowing solar facilities anywhere in town.
- Environmentally friendly? Part of the Pawcatuck Aquifer runs under this part of the golf course. The solar cells within the panels are made of highly hazardous materials. Any potential leaching of these metals will go directly into the environment and impact the aquifer in the region.
- Who makes this decision? Town of Stonington Planning and Zoning Commission does not have any jurisdiction over a project involving solar panels. Approval is delegated to the Connecticut Siting Council in Hartford. Does the Executive Branch have a vested interest in what happens in Stonington? The Governor's mandate to fast track renewable energy projects may open the floodgates to more solar developments in the area.
Help us stop this project before they are allowed to proceed, creating more projects near residential areas, causing a negative economic impact to your property values and our environment.
