Soltage Drops Battery Storage Plans, Secures Extensions for Two Crete Solar Projects
Will County Board Meeting | February 19, 2026
Article Summary: The Will County Board granted second extensions to special use permits for two solar energy projects in Crete Township. The developer, Soltage, has removed battery energy storage systems from the plans.
Crete Solar Extensions Key Points:
-
Projects: Crete Cottage Grove Solar 1, LLC and Crete Goodenow Solar 1, LLC.
-
Locations: Northwest corner of Munz Road/South Cottage Grove Ave; Northeast corner of E. Goodenow Road/Dutton Road.
-
Change: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) removed from both projects.
-
Vote: Both extensions passed 16-3.
The Will County Board on Thursday, February 19, 2026, approved second extensions for two commercial solar energy facilities in Crete Township, extending their special use permits through August 2026.
The projects, owned by Soltage, are located at the northwest corner of Munz Road and South Cottage Grove Avenue, and the northeast corner of East Goodenow Road and Dutton Road.
Land Use staff confirmed that while the original approvals included battery energy storage systems (BESS), the applicant has decided not to pursue battery storage at these locations.
“The applicant has decided to not move forward with the battery energy storage system for this site; the special use permit for the BESS is considered null and void,” stated Marguerite Kenny of the Land Use Department in a memo to the board.
Board Member Judy Ogalla (R-Monee) sought clarification on the ownership. “Is the current owner for this also Soltage?” she asked. Staff confirmed Soltage is the owner and noted that the original zoning cases were handled by a different applicant before being sold.
The board voted 16-3 to approve both extensions. Voting against the extensions were members Deane-Schlottman, Balich, and Berkowicz.
Latest News Stories
Illinois quick hits: DHS responds to migrant release order
As Trump considers rolling back some tariffs, trade groups want in
WATCH: Newly released Epstein emails discussing Trump ‘prove nothing,’ says Leavitt
Small business leader warns swipe fees are squeezing local stores
WATCH: White House exploring options for $2,000 tariff rebate checks
Pritzker disagrees with Durbin on vote to end shutdown
SNAP benefits still in limbo as government shutdown likely nears end
WATCH: China to control chemicals used to produce fentanyl, Patel says
Pritzker open to conversation with Trump on alderman’s immigration proposal
Unions, faith leaders back bipartisan immigration reform bill
Expert: Illinois’ outdated tax law leaves homeowners, taxpayers on the hook
Report: Biden gave away billions of tax dollars for ‘climate justice’ without public consent