Public Urged To Testify On Solar Siting Changes

EAST WINDSOR, CT — As debate continues locally over the Gravel Pit Solar expansion, state lawmakers are now urging residents to take their concerns directly to the Capitol.

State Rep. Jaime Foster is encouraging residents to sign up to testify at a public hearing on Wednesday, March 18, where lawmakers will consider changes to how large-scale solar and other projects are approved in Connecticut.

Deadline Set For Public Testimony

Residents who want to speak at the hearing must register by Tuesday at 3 p.m. through the Connecticut General Assembly’s online system.

Bill Targets Siting Council Process

The hearing will include House Bill 5551, which focuses on possible reforms to the Connecticut Siting Council. The council currently has the authority to approve large energy projects, including utility-scale solar developments.

Foster is asking residents to support specific provisions in the bill, including Section 9, which she says is key to improving how projects are reviewed.

Local Issues Driving State Push

The call for testimony comes as East Windsor continues to grapple with the proposed expansion of the Gravel Pit Solar project, which has raised concerns about farmland loss, environmental impacts and how much say towns have in the approval process.

Opponents of the project have argued that local voices are often limited when projects go through the Siting Council, which can override local zoning decisions.

Coalition Backing Changes

Foster said the effort is being supported by a growing group of state and regional leaders, including lawmakers and planning organizations, who are pushing for stronger local input and clearer rules around large-scale energy projects.

Residents Encouraged To Participate

With both local and statewide debates intensifying, residents are being encouraged to sign up, testify and take part in shaping how future solar projects are reviewed and approved in Connecticut.

Click here to watch the meeting.