Will County Rejects Proposed Solar Farms in 4-2 Vote

Planning and Zoning Commission cites concerns from residents about land use and environmental impact.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:06am

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The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission voted 4-2 to reject proposals for two large-scale solar farm projects, including a 6,100-acre facility called 'Pride of the Prairie' and a 2,400-acre project called 'Plum Valley Solar'. The commission cited concerns raised by local residents during packed public hearings about the impact on land use and the environment.

Why it matters

The proposed solar farms represented a major renewable energy initiative for Will County, but faced significant community opposition. The decision by the Planning and Zoning Commission to reject the projects will now move the issue to the Will County Board for a final vote, setting up a potential clash between economic development and environmental preservation interests.

The details

Earthrise Energy had laid the groundwork for the two large-scale solar farm projects, which would have covered thousands of acres of land in the Joliet area. After hearing hours of testimony from both supporters and opponents during public hearings, the Planning and Zoning Commission ultimately voted against the proposals, citing concerns raised by residents.

  • The Planning and Zoning Commission held public hearings on the solar farm proposals on Monday and Tuesday nights.
  • The Commission voted 4-2 to reject the solar farm proposals on Tuesday evening.

The players

Earthrise Energy

The company that had proposed the 'Pride of the Prairie' and 'Plum Valley Solar' solar farm projects in Will County.

Will County Planning and Zoning Commission

The local government body that voted 4-2 to reject the proposed solar farm projects.

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What they’re saying

“We must carefully weigh the economic benefits of renewable energy against the potential environmental impact on our community.”

— Commission Member

What’s next

The solar farm proposals will now move to the Will County Board for a final vote, where the decision of the Planning and Zoning Commission will be considered.

The takeaway

This decision highlights the ongoing tensions between renewable energy development and local community concerns over land use and environmental preservation. As Will County considers the next steps, it will need to balance economic and sustainability priorities in a way that addresses the needs of all stakeholders.