Solar panel project proposed

GROTON TWP. — Erie County commissioners are listening to, but still have questions on, a proposed $100 million solar project. If approved, it would get built in a rural 968-acre area of Groton Township. Wheatsborough Solar — a subsidiary private company of a larger green energy corporation, Apex Clean Energy — recently made this proposal to commissioners. Among the project benefits: Company representatives claim the project could power roughly 21,000 area homes each year. Additionally, solar panels reduce the carbon released into Earth's atmosphere. "The power from Wheatsborough Solar will be delivered into the local Ohio electrical grid, helping to diversify Ohio's energy portfolio," according to a company statement. "Solar power is one of the most cost-effective sources of electricity available today, and its ability to generate power at peak times helps reduce electricity costs for all consumers." Wheatsborough Solar doesn't technically need the county's permission to build solar panels on land in Groton Township. The authoritative body there is an agency known as the Ohio Power Sitting Board. The company, however, does require Erie County's assistance in receiving, effectively, a tax break on its overall investment. Commissioners have until May 4 to make a decision on this request. Many unknowns about the project — including if it will actually get built, how many solar panels will be installed and the exact location of their placement — exist today. "We're looking into this project, and we'll consider it as we receive more information," county commissioner Matt Old said.