House Republicans Advocate for Solar Farm Siting Transparency Legislation

HARTFORD – Connecticut lawmakers are calling for increased transparency in the siting of solar farm projects, a concern that has become widespread across many cities and towns in the state. House Republican members, State Representatives Carol Hall (R-Enfield), Jay Case (R-Winsted), and Joe Canino (R-Torrington), held a news conference Thursday at the Legislative Office Building to discuss the issues raised by residents and outline the solutions they are proposing.

Two bills currently before the legislature aim to provide local representation on the council. Senate Bill 78, An Act Providing for Local Representation on the Connecticut Siting Council, is under consideration by the Environment Committee. The bill has been supported by the Council of Small Towns and several members of the public during recent hearings. Additionally, House Bill 6298, An Act Concerning Testimony Submitted to the Connecticut Siting Council and Decisions of Municipal Chief Executive Officers Concerning Certain Solar Projects, is being reviewed by the Government Administration and Elections Committee. Rep. Carol Hall co-introduced this bill.

“We talk about equity all the time in Hartford, yet there is no equity or consideration of where these large-scale, invasive solar projects are being placed or the impacts they may have on surrounding residential neighborhoods,” said Rep. Hall. “For the most part, the will of our municipalities and the voices of our residents are being ignored.”

“In Winsted and Torrington, we’ve heard from numerous community members frustrated by the extensive tree clearing required for these solar farm projects,” said Rep. Case, whose district includes Colebrook, Winsted, and parts of Torrington. “This is significantly altering the landscape of our historic communities, with little direct benefit to those living near the developments. I am also concerned about the long-term environmental impact of these installations and the massive clearing that is taking place.”

According to the lawmakers, when solar installations are proposed, the Connecticut Siting Council reviews the plans and decides whether a town can proceed with the development. Once the council approves a project, it essentially becomes a mandate, allowing developers to move forward with no local remedy to appeal the decision.

“Investing in alternative energy sources shouldn’t come at the expense of local communities,” said Rep. Canino. “It’s mind-boggling that the Connecticut Siting Council would approve a solar development within 100 feet of Torrington homes to power the City of Hartford, while our residents are struggling with rising electric bills. That’s why local representation on the siting council is essential to ensure municipalities have a voice in these decisions.”

The legislators are urging those in communities affected by solar farm installations to support these common-sense pieces of legislation. To learn more, residents can contact Reps. Case, Canino, and Hall through their respective websites: www.repcanino.com, www.repjaycase.com, and www.rephall.com.