By Rosalind Russell – Potentia Renewable Limited is aware their proposed Massey Solar Project in the Township of Sables-Spanish Rivers has sparked discussion about land use.
In a statement sent to the Moose, the company says they submitted a proposal for the 242-hectare solar development to the Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) in October 2025, which is expected to announce successful projects by summer.
They point out the township’s Official Plan supports renewable energy systems, including commercial-scale solar and under the local zoning, a Class 3 solar facility is permitted in rural zones.
The proponents stress Massey Solar has not yet been awarded a contract and has not entered the provincial environmental approval process, and if selected, it would undergo a comprehensive environmental assessment under provincial regulations specifically Ontario Regulation 359/09, which includes detailed studies of groundwater, wetlands, woodlands, wildlife habitat, Species at Risk, archaeology, and noise.
They also stress there will be public consultation throughout the process.
Potentia addressed some of the specific concerns expressed over the last few months since making the application.
They state a hydrogeological assessment would evaluate groundwater conditions and identify any potential impacts.
If risks are found, mitigation measures or design changes would be required.
Solar facilities involve minimal foundation work and very limited water use.
Panel materials are non-hazardous.
Vegetation is maintained below and around the panels and is typically managed through mowing, trimming, native plantings, and sometimes managed grazing.
The site the company is looking at is located outside designated agricultural resource lands and is zoned rural.
It includes a mix of marginal farmland, shrubland, woodland, and forest.
Only about 20 per cent is currently farmed, and it is not used for specialty crops.
If approved, soil health would be assessed before construction, and the land would be restored after decommissioning.
There are also economic considerations that will benefit the local community.
Construction is expected to create roughly 100 jobs, along with longer-term operations roles.
The project would provide a $75,000 annual community benefit fund, local sponsorships and bursaries, and emissions-free electricity capable of powering approximately 23,000 Ontario homes.
The project is also projected to significantly increase municipal tax revenue, estimated at roughly eight times the current contribution, while requiring minimal municipal services.
Road use during construction would be temporary and governed by agreements requiring maintenance and restoration.
Concerns about property values and rural character are understandable.
However, research across North America has found no consistent evidence that solar facilities reduce nearby property values.
The project design would include setbacks and natural screening, if required, to reduce visibility from surrounding properties.
The Township’s Official Plan supports renewable energy systems, including commercial-scale solar and under the local zoning, a Class 3 solar facility is permitted in rural zones.
If the project is selected, the next phase would involve detailed studies and formal public consultation.
That process would give residents the opportunity to interact with project staff, review detailed project information and provide input and feedback before any final approvals are granted.
Photo – A photo of a solar farm provided by Raphael Cruz – unsplash.com
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