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Longview group sharing plans on solar generation project

The Longview Economic Development Committee will provide details and answer questions on the proposed project at a public meeting Oct. 9.
Solar Panels
The Longview Economic Development Committee is hosting an open House Oct. 9 to share its plans to develop a solar generation project northwest of Longview. (Wheel File Photo)

A committee that’s working to bring solar energy to Longview is revealing its plans next week.
The Longview Economic Development Committee will share its progress in exploring the feasibility of developing a solar generation project northwest of Longview at an open house in the Longview Community Hall Oct. 9 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Village received a Community Generation Capacity Building Program grant of $148,297 to complete a financial and regulatory feasibility study for the project last spring, said committee chair Kirk Davis.
The study investigates the design, technical studies, financial modelling and implementation requirements to build and operate the project, he said.
“It’s a big deal for the village,” said Davis of the proposed project. “This has great tax revenue for the village. If the plan works there’s no cost to the village.”
Davis said such a project would create a more sustainable future for Longview, creating jobs and supporting businesses.
Almost a year ago, the Province released the Small Scale Community Generation Regulation that clarifies the regulatory process for small-scale generation. It allows municipalities to put solar arrays on property, connect them to the grid and sell to the grid or another source, said Davis.
The proposed site for the Longview project is on about 90 acres of Village-owned land near the lagoons, which provides south-facing exposure and is adjacent to the Fortis grid distribution system, said Davis. He said the committee is working with Eco Renewables Group SkyFireEnergy Solar Energy Systems on the project.
At next week’s open house, residents will hear from Village representatives, the Longview Economic Development Committee and the project manager on the progress of the study, community benefits and the next steps, said Davis.
He said it will be a quick lesson on how solar works, the proposed plan, environmental studies, historical studies, soil sampling and pressure testing done by the experts.
Village Coun. Christina Weir said the project would support Longview businesses, and bring jobs to build and maintain it, while maximizing the potential for the village-owned land if it goes ahead.
“I believe this is a very unique, low-risk opportunity to spark economic development and help Longview become more sustainable as a village, as well as support the worldwide initiative for a cleaner energy,” she said.
Weir said next week’s information session will provide residents with the proper information and clarification needed to make an informed opinion on the project.
“It's to address questions and listen to any concerns they may have, directly and first hand,” she said.

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