CENTRE WELLINGTON – The final “yay or nay” for a Battery Energy Storage System proposal in Centre Wellington occurred at a council meeting Monday.
Only one councillor voted in opposition of the facility at the meeting that saw the proposal south of Fergus get the green-light.
The BESS, as it’s known, is proposed to contain 200 batteries and other supplementary infrastructure. The parcel of land is known as 6235 Guelph Street. The property currently supports an active agricultural operation, and two residences. To the north is land that is planned for residential use.
Councillor Jennifer Adams was the only one to vote against the storage system, citing while she’s not against renewable energy, this particular proposal is not the right one for the community.
Adams went on to voice hesitancy to support Aypa Power, who are backed by a US-based equity firm.
Aypa Power’s project is pegged to bring 200 batteries to the community. Jason McDonald of the Canadian Union of Skilled Workers says it should bring roughly the same number of jobs.
Several other councillors had concerns, related to everything from vibrations to noise and environmental impact.
Several stopped to acknowledge the amount of research, work and consultation that went into this process.
Councillor Lisa MacDonald noted this “huge” project required the most digging she’d ever done as a member of council. While the project was dubbed “new,” Mayor Shawn Watters said it’s not as daunting as it may seem. Before a formal vote, Watters commented on the commitment to making a good decision from council and the community.
The storage system will hold the batteries with additional slots as reserves and have a 200 metre setback from the nearest roadway, something that was commended by Craddock.
Next steps will include the County’s support of an official plan amendment, with construction pegged for this fall.
Councillor Bronwynne Wilton was not a part of the discussion due to a declaration of pecuniary interest.
