Lightsource BP has withdrawn its appeal to the Ohio Supreme Court regarding its 300 MW Birch Solar project after local opposition led to its rejection by the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB).
The Board deemed the project not in the “public interest” due to concerns from residents in the Republican county, despite its potential economic and environmental benefits.
The developer argued that the OPSB’s narrow interpretation of "public interest" unfairly prioritized local opposition and failed to consider the broader benefits, such as economic growth, job creation, and clean energy. Lightsource BP contended that this decision violated Ohio law by shifting legal authority to local governments.
The Birch Solar project was expected to create 400 jobs and generate $2.7 million annually for local governments, along with a $500,000 community fund. It also promised to reduce 423,700 metric tons of CO2 emissions. The project represented a $337 million investment in Ohio's clean energy infrastructure, but its withdrawal raises concerns about future renewable energy development in the state.
The National Resources Defense Council warned that this decision could set a precedent for blocking other renewable projects in Ohio.
