Klickitat County residents voice concerns over Carriger solar project impacts on agriculture

In a recent special meeting held by the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) on May 5, 2025, community members voiced their concerns regarding the Carriger Solar Project, a proposed solar energy installation in Klickitat County, Washington. The atmosphere was charged with apprehension as residents gathered to discuss the potential impacts of the project on their agricultural land, local wildlife, and community health.

One of the primary concerns raised was the destruction of valuable agricultural land. Local farmers emphasized the need for agrivoltaics—solar arrays designed to coexist with farming practices. They urged that solar panels be engineered to tilt up to 90 degrees, allowing farm equipment and livestock to move freely beneath them. This design, they argued, would help preserve the agricultural viability of the land while still harnessing solar energy.

Another pressing issue was the management of irrigation rights. Residents highlighted the importance of maintaining existing irrigation systems, as water resources in the area are limited. They called for measures to ensure that these rights are either transferred or banked, emphasizing that losing access to irrigation could have dire consequences for local agriculture.

Fire safety was also a significant topic of discussion. Community members expressed concerns about the risks associated with lithium battery systems used in solar installations, advocating for the adoption of inherently fire-safe technologies. They proposed that any lithium batteries be secured in underground or concrete bunkers to mitigate the risk of toxic fumes in the event of a fire.

Noise pollution emerged as a sensitive issue, particularly in rural areas where even low decibel levels can be disruptive. Residents voiced their worries about the potential noise from solar panel operations, which could significantly affect their quality of life.

The community's desire for a direct benefit from the electricity generated by the Carriger project was palpable. Many residents argued that a portion of the energy produced should be allocated to the local public utility district (PUD) to help lower electricity rates for residents. They expressed frustration that much of the energy generated in the county is exported out of state, leaving local residents without tangible benefits.

As the meeting progressed, several speakers, including tribal members, raised concerns about the cultural and environmental impacts of the project. They highlighted the potential disruption to traditional food gathering practices and the local ecosystem, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the project's implications on wildlife habitats and cultural resources.

In conclusion, the Carriger Solar Project has sparked a robust dialogue within the Klickitat County community, reflecting a deep commitment to balancing renewable energy development with the preservation of agricultural land and local heritage. As the EFSEC continues to evaluate the project, the voices of concerned residents underscore the importance of responsible and inclusive planning in the transition to renewable energy.