ARNEGARD, N.D. (KUMV) – Solar panels could be set up northwest of Arnegard as ibV Energy seeks a conditional use permit for the Cattle Creek Solar Farm. The company says it could generate up to 150 megawatts of power in a region in need of more generation.
“This is something that I personally do see as a good option for communities because of the energy reliability, the stable tax generation, and there will be some jobs,” said Eric Wedesky, project manager for ibV.
Nearly three hours were spent discussing the project during the McKenzie County Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on Monday. Nearby landowners raised concerns of potential pollution, the possibility of wildfires and impacts to nearby oil and gas pipelines.
“I have property that I would like to put a house on that has a beautiful view. But with the solar plant there, I’m not so sure,” said Carmon Evenson, McKenzie County.
Company representatives say plans are in place to minimize any damage and to meet all state and county safety and environmental requirements.
“We’re highly incentivized to get out and replace panels so that the system can get back to full operation as timely a manner as possible,” said Wedesky.
While planning and zoning staff recommended approval, the Planning and Zoning Commission decided to table the discussion so everyone has more time to think and to give ibV time to address more of the concerns.
“Going out and deer hunting is what makes this part of the state great. Why does everyone want to come to this part of the state? Because they get out and do stuff like that and not have to see that kind of stuff. There’s a lot of unanswered questions for me,” said Howdy Lawler, McKenzie County Commission chairman.
Should the planning and zoning approve the project, it will then be voted on by the McKenzie County Commission. Officials with ibV say the project would take about 18 months to be constructed.
It’s not the only solar project being discussed in the region. A company is looking to build a farm just 40 miles away near Fairview, Montana.
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