Health department mandates toxic testing for solar facilities in St. Clair County

Concerns over the impact of solar energy facilities on agriculture and public health dominated the St. Clair County Health Department's public hearing on April 16, 2025. Farmers and residents voiced strong opposition to proposed solar projects, citing fears of contamination and long-term damage to farmland.

Bill Pickard, a local farmer, raised alarms about the potential toxicity of solar panels and batteries, emphasizing the need for stringent regulations. He argued that solar facilities could introduce harmful chemicals into the soil, making it unsafe for growing crops. "We need to protect our neighbor's farmland due to any straight line winds or tornadoes that may damage solar panels and spread over neighboring acreage," he stated, highlighting the risks posed by debris from damaged panels.

Doug Nowicki, a Greenwood Township Trustee, echoed these concerns, questioning the safety of solar panels and their potential to contribute to pollution. He pointed out that while farmers are often criticized for chemical use, the dangers posed by solar facilities should not be overlooked. "If we're going after pollution, let's go after pollution," he urged, calling for a comprehensive approach to environmental safety.

Residents also expressed worries about the visual and noise pollution associated with solar installations. Chris Barto, a local resident, described the stress of living near an industrial solar facility, emphasizing the importance of regulations that address sound and visual impacts. "I live with two women. That would be pure hell for me," he said, reflecting the emotional toll such developments could take on families.

Sharon Hesling raised additional concerns about glare from solar panels, suggesting that developers should be required to conduct studies to assess potential impacts on neighboring properties and roadways. "Glare is a potential issue with solar panels," she noted, advocating for measures to mitigate this nuisance.

As the meeting concluded, the community's apprehensions about solar energy projects were clear. Residents and farmers alike are calling for more stringent regulations to protect their land, health, and way of life, underscoring the need for a balanced approach to renewable energy development in St. Clair County.