The Lee County Board approved petition 26P1660 from Prairie Broom Solar LLC to build a 180‑megawatt commercial solar facility on 1,816 acres in Alto and Reynold townships, subject to a 40‑year permit term, decommissioning, stormwater controls and other conditions.

Board members asked staff to research a national trade agreement among certain unions for solar projects and whether county ordinances or state rules affect local contractor access; zoning staff said project labor agreements and state statute requirements may constrain county authority.

Developers told a May 27 zoning hearing the Prairie Broom Solar special-use application meets Lee County and Illinois requirements for a 180 MW, ~1,816-acre solar facility, outlining screening, a $15.5 million decommissioning estimate and a phased financial-assurance schedule; the hearing officer will forward a report to the county board.

Pivot Energy told the Lee County zoning hearing officer it wants to amend two previously approved community-solar special uses (PEIL 2 58 and PEIL 2 59) to add battery storage and adjust layouts, and to rescind a third permit (PEIL 2 60) after ComEd declined its interconnection due to capacity limits; the hearing officer took the matter under advisement and will report to the county board.

Zoning board grants permits for three solar energy systems in Nelson Township.

Lee County Zoning Board of Appeals concludes public hearing phase for community solar project.

Lee County ZBA unanimously adopts safety measures for solar farm installations and operations.

Lee County ZBA unanimously adopts motions addressing solar project safety and environmental impact.

Residents challenge solar LLC representatives about ownership, sales, and environmental safety concerns.

Construction will generate up to 75 semi trucks weekly plus benefits for local solar subscribers.

Solar project creates jobs and reduces energy costs while promoting biodiversity.

Lee County Zoning Board reviews special use applications for solar energy facilities.