McHenry County Zoning Board backs Railway Solar project, adds screening condition

The McHenry County Zoning Board of Appeals voted 7-0 on Nov. 25 to recommend approval of a conditional use permit for a community solar project proposed by Railway Solar LLC, with the board adding a condition that the developer provide supplemental landscaping along the sites east side and adhere to staff-recommended mitigation measures.

The boards hearing, opened by the presiding chair, centered on a roughly 72.6-acre parcel in Coral Township near West Union Road and South Grant Highway (PIN 1705100-004). Paul Makarowitz, a representative of AES Clean Energy speaking for Railway Solar, described the project as a community solar facility with an export capacity just under 5 megawatts AC and an expected construction start in late 2026 and operation before 2027 if permits proceed.

Why it mattered: the project will tie into local distribution and, AES said, allow local subscribers to access renewable energy. Neighbors and board members focused on visual screening, tree removal, wetlands, stormwater management and outreach, and the board required a more detailed landscaping plan and additional screening commitments as conditions of approval.

What the developer said: Makarowitz told the board the company aims to avoid tree felling…