Plainfield Conservation Commission Delays Vote on 3.98-Megawatt Solar Project

PLAINFIELD — October 1, 2025 — Plainfield Conservation Commission continues public hearing on a nearly 4-megawatt solar project amid resident concerns. The commission voted unanimously to postpone action on New Leaf Energy's Notice of Intent for a 3.98-megawatt solar and battery storage facility at 66 North Union Street, owned by Robert Picko, to its October 28 meeting. The proposal calls for roughly 16,000 fixed-tilt solar panels across 23 acres of wooded land, with all construction activity limited to the 50-to-100-foot wetland buffer zone. Representatives Lane, Mike Conway, and Connor Glow fielded seven DEP comments, including a request for on-site soil evaluation to verify stormwater infiltration rates. Residents raised concerns ranging from light pollution affecting neighboring horse farms to risks to private well water and aquifers, with one commenter urging the board to consult Massachusetts's newly formed Clean Energy Siting and Energy Permitting Division, led by Allison Gage, before any vote.