Ontario town opposes solar panel park

Amherstburg, Ontario -- Residents of a southwestern Ontario town voiced opposition to a proposed 35-megawatt solar energy park because it might lower property values, a report said.

Representatives of the California company SunPower and Toronto partner Helios Energy outlined the $300 million proposal Wednesday night at public meeting in Amherstburg, the Windsor Star reported Thursday.

Speakers said the proposed energy park on the grounds of a closed Canadian chemical plant would provide enough electricity to power 5,000 homes and create local jobs, but residents expressed concern about the effect sprawling banks of black solar panels would have on local property values.

Pauline Cookson, a resident, said she couldn't see any direct benefit to her and her family from the project.

"I don't want it in my front yard," she said.

Another resident, Gail Affleck-Nickleson had mixed feelings.

"Alternative energy is the future. I'm not against it," she said. "But I sure don't want to be a guinea pig here."

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.