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Board approves SunVest Solar’s community solar farm and first county battery storage project
Summary
The Knox County Board approved a 5 MW commercial solar field and an associated six-hour battery energy storage system proposed by SunVest Solar; the board noted training for local fire districts and recorded unanimous favorable roll-call votes.
The Knox County Board unanimously approved two zoning items on April 23 that clear the county-level land‑use path for a 5‑megawatt community solar facility and an associated battery energy storage system proposed by SunVest Solar/Reader Solar LLC.
Bill French, SunVest Solar’s regional director of project development, told the board the company met county zoning requirements and requested the approvals listed as items 36 and 37 on the agenda. ‘‘We’re here this evening, seeking your approval for two projects here in the county,’’ he said, describing a 5 MW solar facility paired with a six‑hour battery energy storage system.
Committee members noted this is the county’s first battery storage approval for a solar field. The county said fire districts will receive training on emergency procedures for the storage system as part of the project’s safety plan. Member Kramer said the company presented emergency procedures at committee and that training for first responders was part of the application.
Public comment included Dan Thompson, who said he supports the solar and wind items on the agenda as an environmental and cost benefit. After discussion, the clerk called the roll and the board approved both ZBA cases by recorded vote.
What happens next: the approvals clear county zoning requirements so SunVest may proceed with permitting and project planning. County staff and local fire districts will coordinate applicant training for battery‑storage operations and emergency response.
