Public comment period for now-approved Madison Co. solar project draws support, criticism

The Office of Renewable Energy Siting & Electric Transmission (ORES) held a mandatory public comment period earlier this year on the now-approved Oxbow Hill Solar project.

The company Cypress Creek Renewables plans to build a solar array in the Town of Fenner in Madison County.

Throughout the proposal process, the I-Team heard from leaders from both the town and county about their opposition to the project. A main concern is that their home rule is taken away by a state regulation called the RAPID Act.

In short, it’s part of the state’s effort to reach its clean energy goals. It streamlines the process and cuts the red tape companies have to go through to get permits approved for renewable energy projects.

ORES summarized the public comment that came in, saying the office got 50 verbal and written comments on the Oxbow Hill Solar project. 31 comments reflected opposition to the project, while six were neutral, and 13 were supportive of the plan.

Still, government leaders told the I-Team they feel the company just checked the box when it comes to the required public input needed for ORES approval.

“I don’t think they’re really listening,” said Town of Fenner Supervisor Dave Jones.

Chairman of the Madison County Board of Supervisors Jim Cunningham said, “We want to be able to have a say in this process.” He added, “This could happen to anyone’s town. That’s what the fear is. That the state can come in and be heavy-handed and take over.”

Take a look at the public hearing comments, as well as the responses provided by ORES and Cypress Creek Renewables below:

Construction is set to begin in 2026, with a timeline of 12-18 months.