Question 1

Where will the power generated from the project go?

Accepted Answer

The power from Mackinaw Solar will be delivered into the local Illinois electrical grid, helping to diversify the state’s energy portfolio. Power generated by the project will be used both locally and transmitted to where it is needed based on demand. Think of solar energy like other crops – such as corn, wheat, and dairy that are currently harvested in your community. While some of those resources stay local, many are shipped outside your community but provide valuable income and jobs.

Question 2

Will a solar project in my community lower my utility bills?

Accepted Answer

Solar provides long-term price protection to customers in Illinois. Because there is no fuel, solar power is sold to utilities at long-term, fixed prices that are often below the cost of other resources. Today, with solar equipment price declines of approximately 90% over the last 10 years, solar is the lowest cost option for new electrical utilities seeking to add new generation.

Question 3

How will solar arrays impact wildlife in the area?

Accepted Answer

Impacts to local wildlife are expected to be minimal. Environmental experts have been assessing the project footprint by conducting site-specific studies to understand and mitigate potential impacts on wildlife. The project will comply with all state and federal regulations associated with wildlife and will follow the guidance of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Small local wildlife will be able to come and go through wildlife-friendly fencing, including rabbits and other small mammals as well as turtles and other small reptiles. Additionally, the project will take into consideration the inclusion of wildlife corridors that would allow for large species of wildlife to pass through the project area.

Question 4

Are there health risks from the electric and magnetic fields (EMF) from solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Solar energy produces no emissions, waste, odor, or byproducts. The extremely low-frequency EMFs from PV arrays and transmission lines is the same as the EMFs people are exposed to from household electrical appliances and wiring in buildings.

Question 5

How will the project impact farmland and local agriculture?

Accepted Answer

Solar development and traditional agriculture can co-exist side-by-side and increasingly are found together. Responsible solar development provides benefits to both agriculture and ecosystems by improving soil health, retaining water, nurturing native species, and supporting native pollinators which support local food production. In addition, solar farms help farmers and landowners diversify their income by providing a reliable, drought-resistant revenue stream. This steady income means that farmers are less vulnerable to fluctuations in market prices on their products, uncertain trade regimes, and volatile annual weather, thus helping farmers stay in business. Additionally, at the end of its useful life the project will be decommissioned, and the land will be available for all future potential uses, including traditional agriculture.

Question 6

What happens when it is cloudy outside?

Accepted Answer

On a cloudy day, solar panels still produce energy, just at a lower level than on a sunny day. Advanced tracking systems enable solar panels to follow the sun throughout the day and maximize the amount of electricity generated.

Question 7

Will inclement weather damage the panels?

Accepted Answer

Panels are capable of withstanding harsh weather elements such as hail, torrential rain, and strong winds. Studies, as well as actual catastrophic events such as hurricanes, have shown that solar farms are able to withstand the harsh weather elements, including the cold, snowy weather of the Midwest.

Question 8

Are solar panels toxic?

Accepted Answer

No. Mackinaw Solar will utilize monocrystalline silicon photovoltaics (PV) solar panels, which account for over 90% of solar PV panels installed today. These panels use a crystalline lattice of silicon atoms to convert sunlight into electricity. Silicon is the second-most abundant material on Earth (after oxygen) and the most common semiconductor material used in computer chips. It is non-toxic and does not pose a risk to public health or safety. When a project is decommissioned, panels can be recycled as well as be disposed of in landfills designated for this type of material.

Question 9

What happens to solar panels at the end of their life?

Accepted Answer

As part of the permitting process, Mackinaw Solar will provide a detailed decommissioning plan. At the end of the project’s useful life (30 years on average), panels can be removed and recycled or disposed of in a licensed landfill. Up to 90% of the materials used in panels, much of which is glass, are recyclable.

Question 10

Are solar panels noisy?

Accepted Answer

No, solar panels themselves are completely silent. Certain pieces of equipment on a solar farm, which includes inverters, transformers, and motors, do emit a small amount of sound during the day from sunrise to sunset. Transportation and maintenance equipment – including cars, trucks, lawnmowers, and string trimmers – are also a common source of noise on solar farms that most people are used to hearing elsewhere. The impact of this sound is negligible because the equipment is strategically placed within the solar layout and is typically distant from the property lines.

Mackinaw Solar’s commitment to being a good neighbor ensures that a noise study will be conducted, with measurements taken at a variety of locations around the project site. The project will operate in compliance with all applicable noise requirements

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