By Rosalind Russell – Potentia Renewables Incorporate, the company looking at installing a 141-megawatt solar facility on a 600-acre property roughly 14 kilometres outside of Massey, is beginning the public consultation process.
The company is hosting public open houses next month, the first on Wednesday, June 10th from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Massey Public Library, the second, also at the library, on Thursday, June 11th from 11 am to 2 pm.
Last year, Sables-Spanish Rivers Township council voted 6 to 1 in favour of Potentia, applying for approvals to move ahead with the project, based on proper zoning and the Official Plan.
Following that approval, citizens in opposition to the project formed the Massey Wildlife Conservation Committee, submitted a petition with over a 1,000 signatures asking council to withdraw its consent and have led a campaign through the ensuing months.
The Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Manitoulin North Shore Federation of Agriculture and the Massey Agricultural Society have also expressed concerns.
A motion to rescind support of the Massey Solar Project was defeated by council 6 to 1 in March.
In April, Potentia was awarded a Power Purchase Agreement from Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator for its Massey Solar Project giving them the go-ahead for the next steps, which includes public consultations and an environmental assessment of the property.
The public is invited to the open houses and can share their comments verbally and/or in writing.
Photo of a ground mount solar installation provided by Potentia Renewables Incorporated.
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