Washington Township Board Opposes New Solar Farm Proposals

Washington Township Board of Trustees Meeting | Nov. 2025

Article Summary: The Washington Township Board of Trustees on Monday formally voiced its opposition to two proposed solar farm projects located within 1.5 miles of the Village of Beecher. Supervisor Mike Stanula announced plans to draft letters of opposition to the Will County Board, reaffirming the township’s stance against solar developments in the area.

Washington Township Solar Zoning Key Points:

• Location of Proposals: Two solar companies are seeking to build farms within 1.5 miles of the Village of Beecher limits.

• Village vs. Township Stance: While the Village of Beecher recently approved the “Earthrise Energy” project and rejected the “Black Swan” site, the Township Board opposes all solar farm projects in the jurisdiction.

• Next Steps: Supervisor Mike Stanula will send formal letters of opposition regarding the two new applications to the Will County Board.

The Washington Township Board of Trustees on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, discussed the potential development of two new solar farms and reaffirmed its opposition to such projects within the township.

Supervisor Mike Stanula reported that two companies are currently looking to build solar farms within 1.5 miles of the Village of Beecher limits. Because of the proximity to the village, the village board has the ability to discuss and make recommendations to the Will County Board regarding approval.

According to Stanula, the Village of Beecher did not approve the “Black Swan” site but did approve the “Earthrise Energy” project. However, the Township Board maintained a stricter stance during Monday’s meeting. Stanula noted that the township has opposed all solar farm projects in the township historically and will not support the two new applications.

The board agreed that Stanula would draft letters opposing the projects and forward them to the Will County Board, which holds the authority to approve or deny the special use permits required for solar farms.

Trustee Tracy Heldt noted during her report that she attended a recent economic training meeting sponsored by the Will County Center for Economic Development. She reported that many local officials spoke against solar farms at the event, with suggestions that ordinances be considered to require solar panels on the rooftops of new businesses rather than losing farmland to solar sites.