Proponents of a new solar panel installation are appealing a decision that blocked them from building the new energy field in the Carson Valley. The Douglas County Planning Commission denied the original proposal, but the Board of Commissioners will be taking a look at it Thursday.Â
The land is owned by Bently Ranch and the owners are discussing leasing it to a climate and renewable energy company called E.On. About 100,000 solar panels would cover 322 acres of land. It would be located southeast of the intersection of East Valley Road and Kathleen Way. Residents in that neighborhood are upset that the site would be adjacent to their homes.
"I am all for alternative energy. I think we need it. Let's get the solar in. It can be low but it can be behind a hillside," said Carol Abel, a resident in the area.
Bob Wage also lives the same  neighborhood and he says, "I'm concerned about my property value and if this could be pandora's box."
Norm Denny is a neighbor on East Valley Road that says his family will be the most affected if the project was to move forward.
"With this solar farm this view is totally going to be destroyed. Who would buy a picture perfect house with windows overlooking 300 acres of blue glass," said Denny.Â
The view from his windows face the valley and the Sierra, but he says hundreds of solar panels would be feet away from the edge of his property.
"Chris Bently's consultant has told us its okay now to listen to sixty decibels of noise seven days a week daylight to dark sixty feet from our front door," said Denny.Â
Other Nevadans say they don't see a problem with the location.
"There are few residents out there. You can check with them but that's like checking with ten people over the overall impact of carson valley," said Mike Ebbs.Â
Brad Gill said, "I'd rather have the energy cost cut down than the view. If you dont like the view, look somewhere else." Â Â Â Â
With different opinions on the solar project, the county will hear both sides Thursday at the meeting.Â
