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Residents raised concerns about air pollution, water quality and environmental impacts during a public hearing Tuesday on a proposed natural gas-fired power plant in western Licking County.
The October 6 hearing, conducted by the Ohio Power Siting Board in New Albany, drew more than 50 attendees. About 25 people spoke, with most opposing the proposed project, according to The Reporting Project.
Will-Power is seeking approval to build the 500-megawatt NEO Power Generation Facility, along with a 260-megawatt battery energy storage system in Jersey Township. The facility would provide electricity to Meta’s Prometheus data center campus in the New Albany International Business Park.
Residents cite pollution and water concerns
People who spoke against the proposal raised concerns about emissions, stormwater runoff and the broader environmental effects of natural gas production, including hydraulic fracturing and the disposal of wastewater.
Drew Bidwell, who lives near the proposed facility, said he wants assurances that the project will not threaten his family’s safety or access to clean water.
Other opponents questioned the technology proposed for the facility and argued that more efficient generation options should be considered.
Cathy Becker, board president of Save Ohio Parks, said the proposed use of simple-cycle gas turbines and reciprocating engines could result in significant pollution. Becker also expressed concern that growing demand for natural gas could contribute to additional drilling and fracking across Ohio.
These concerns were raised by opponents during the hearing; the project remains subject to the state’s review process.
Supporters point to jobs and tax revenue
The proposal also received support from people representing industries that could benefit from construction and related work.
Frank Uhl II of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 18 cited potential employment opportunities and tax revenue as benefits of projects like the proposed facility.
The Ohio Power Siting Board reviews applications for major energy infrastructure projects in Ohio, considering factors that include economic interests, environmental impacts and land use.
State review continues
The NEO Power Generation Facility application was filed with the Ohio Power Siting Board in June. The board is scheduled to hold an evidentiary hearing on the proposal at 10 a.m. Wednesday, October 21, at the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio offices, 180 East Broad Street in Columbus.
Residents can submit public comments to the board under case number 26-0627-EL-BGN.
The proposal comes amid continued growth in Licking County’s data center industry. The Reporting Project has reported that the county is home to more than 50 data centers, with several power-generation projects proposed or under construction to meet their electricity needs.
The board has not yet issued a final decision on the NEO facility.
Reporting based on coverage by The Reporting Project, information from the Ohio Power Siting Board and Jersey Township.
