Battery energy storage system in Eagle Creek Township
Summary
Neighbors around the proposed Longspur battery storage site pushed the board to deny a 12-month extension and force a fresh application under newer county rules, citing fire safety and watershed concerns. The board granted the extension after staff confirmed the project already complies with the county's 2024 BESS ordinance.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jul 15, 2026.
Impact analysis
A remonstrator referenced a reported $27 million community fund tied to the project, though the board noted it has no role in money matters.
The project owners gain a year to secure remaining permits and begin construction.
Nearby residents say they remain concerned about battery fire risk and potential contamination of the Kankakee River watershed.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Lake County Plan Commission - Jul 15, 2026
A 200 MW battery storage project is headed for a special exception filing, and neighbors and commissioners are worried about noise near a church, contamination risk to wells, and the substation next door. The commission flagged containment and berm expectations before the August filing.
Lake County Board of Zoning Appeals - Apr 15, 2026
Neighbors around the proposed Longspur battery storage site pushed the board to deny a 12-month extension and force a fresh application under newer county rules, citing fire safety and watershed concerns. The board granted the extension after staff confirmed the project already complies with the county's 2024 BESS ordinance.
Related development
Bodrix Energy Storage battery energy storage system
Major tax revenue and jobs for the county, but neighbors and commissioners want hard guarantees on noise, berms, and groundwater protection near wells.
Longspur Battery Energy Storage System extension
The project stays alive for another year, but the developer is on the clock to obtain permits or risk needing another extension the board may not grant.
We'll email you when it's on an upcoming agenda and when it's voted on, at most once a day.
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