Will County committee deadlocks on mega solar project

A 6,100-acre solar development proposed for Will County remains undecided after the Will County Land Use and Development Committee split in a tied vote of 3-3, following weeks of intense public scrutiny and testimony.
The project, known as the Pride of the Prairie Solar Complex (Zoning case ZC-25-129) and proposed by Earthrise Energy, would span approximately 6,100 acres across 96 properties in Manhattan, Green Garden and Wilton townships, generally southeast of the Village of Manhattan, and including properties on Wilmington-Peotone Road.
If approved, the development could generate up to 600 megawatts of electricity, making it one of the largest solar projects ever proposed in the region.
Outpouring of concerns
The debate intensified during a lengthy public hearing held March 31 at the Renaissance Center before the Will County Planning and Zoning Commission. The hearing stretched across two days as residents, farmers, union representatives and local officials delivered hours of testimony both supporting and opposing the proposal.
The commission ultimately voted 4–2 to recommend denial of the project — an advisory decision that sent the proposal forward in the review process.
A central concern among opponents was the unprecedented scale of the development.
“The problem we have with the Earthrise Pride of the Prairie is it’s just too darn big,” said James Walsh, who described the project as a “monster project” incompatible with local planning efforts.
Green Garden Township Supervisor Dean Christofilos echoed those concerns, telling commissioners, “This is not a done deal … it’s a deal that could be denied,” citing conflicts with the township’s land use plan.
Local infrastructure and state influence were also raised. Wilton Township Highway Commissioner Ray Nugent, Jr. expressed frustration.
“I’m not anti-green,” said Nugent. “I’m against the way this is being shoved down our throats by the state of Illinois.”
Environmental and
property concerns
Residents repeatedly pointed to the loss of productive farmland and the transformation of rural landscapes. Critics warned that removing thousands of acres from agricultural use could have lasting consequences for the region’s economy and identity.
Environmental concerns were also addressed.
“This is an incomplete application … until they trigger federal and state agencies, they cannot proceed,” said Thomas Becker, who has helped organize opposition to the project.
Becker also suggested the fight could extend beyond local government.
“If we don’t win at zoning, the next step is litigation,” he said. “We already have the plaintiffs prepared.”
Some residents raised concerns about property values and quality of life near large solar installations.
“Buyers don’t want to live near solar,” Gregory Clark said.
Economic benefits
Despite strong opposition, supporters argued the project represents a significant investment in renewable energy and the local economy.
Farmer Mark Fecht, whose land is included in the proposal, emphasized property rights.
“We want the ability to do what we want with our own ground,” Fecht said. “You have no idea what it’s like to farm.”
Labor groups also voiced support, pointing to job creation. Joe Sweeney spoke on behalf of the International Union of Operating Engineers.
“This is not about politics,” Sweeney said. “It’s about using all the tools in our toolbox to meet the rising demand for energy.”
Earthrise Energy, headquartered in Arlington, VA, has said the project could create more than 600 construction jobs and generate tens of millions of dollars in tax revenue for local governments and school districts.
Deadlock leaves
future uncertain
After advancing from the zoning commission with a recommendation against approval, the proposal reached the Land Use Committee, where members ultimately split 3–3, resulting in no recommendation to the Will County Board.
The deadlock reflects ongoing division among county officials as they weigh renewable energy expansion against preservation of farmland and rural communities.
The Pride of the Prairie project is one of two major solar proposals under consideration in Will County, together covering roughly 8,500 acres. The outcome is expected to set a precedent for future large-scale solar developments in the region.
What Comes Next?
Despite the tied committee vote, the project remains alive. The full Will County Board will make the final decision after additional review and public input. The next meeting for the County Board is April 16.
With strong opinions on both sides, residents and stakeholders are expected to remain actively engaged as the process continues — and the final outcome may well shape the future of energy development across Will County for years to come.