Residents Raise Concerns During Earth Rise Solar Energy Presentation

Manhattan Township Board Meeting | November 11, 2025

Article Summary: A representative from Earth Rise Solar Energy presented a preliminary plan for a new solar development in Manhattan Township, sparking numerous questions from residents regarding environmental impact and property values.

Manhattan Township Solar Presentation Key Points:

• Project Scope: Earth Rise plans to break ground in Summer 2026, utilizing the natural gas interconnection at the Peaker Plant on Pauling Road.

• Power Buyers: Energy generated would be sold to Meta, Google, and the Illinois Power Authority.

• Board Stance: The Township Board requested detailed site plans and maps before engaging in further discussions regarding development requirements.

• Public Feedback: Residents expressed concerns regarding water supply depletion, chemical runoff, glare, and the loss of farmland.

The Manhattan Township Board on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, hosted a presentation by a solar energy developer, leading to an extensive question-and-answer session with concerned residents.

Rob Kalbouss, Director of Development for Earth Rise Solar Energy, addressed the board, outlining the company’s intent to develop a solar facility in the area. Kalbouss stated that Earth Rise has been acquiring land through purchase or lease agreements and has purchased the natural gas interconnection associated with the Peaker Plant on Pauling Road to utilize the established grid.

According to Kalbouss, the project timeline aims for a Summer 2026 groundbreaking, with construction expected to last 12 to 18 months. The power generated is intended for sale to Meta, Google, and the Illinois Power Authority.

However, specific details regarding the project’s footprint remain unclear. Kalbouss told the board he was unsure of the exact number of acres that would be developed within Manhattan Township.

The Township Board expressed caution regarding the proposal. Officials stated that before the township is comfortable entering discussions about Solar Energy Development Requirements, Earth Rise must provide a detailed site plan showing exactly which land parcels are proposed for development and easement use. The Manhattan Township Road District also requested a list of all roads that would be impacted.

The presentation drew significant public comment, with residents questioning the potential impacts of the facility.

Resident Andrea stated she was concerned about a data center proposed on Schweitzer Road—which residents fear the solar farm might support—pulling from local aquifers. She cited the need for water conservation studies to ensure the local water supply is not affected.

Other residents, including Don S. and Andrew B., questioned environmental safety, asking about potential chemical leaks into the ground and the disturbance of local ecosystems. Resident Garrett F. raised concerns about glare from the panels and disruption to field tiles.

Responding to financial questions, Kalbouss noted that while the project would create approximately 600 temporary construction jobs, it would employ only about three people permanently once completed. He argued that the development would offer tax benefits to local government entities and help offset energy prices.

When asked about emergency planning, Kalbouss stated that the facility would be designed with feedback from the Manhattan Fire Department.