93.9 The Eagle – The News and Talk of Columbia, MO
After years of saying no, state regulators have approved the Grain Belt Express.
The plan is to run wind energy overhead thru large power poles across the state. It will hit mid-Missouri in Chariton, Randolph, and Monroe counties.
The Public Service Commission on Wednesday said Clean Line’s plan for Grain Belt promotes public interest, because it will help with the reliability of electric service in Missouri.
Opponents say the poles will hurt their property values, along with other concerns. The PSC it has a payment plan set up for affected landowners, and other steps in place to limit agricultural impacts.
It is a sad day when government officials allow a for profit company use eminent domain as a means to force a right of way. If this such a great need, then why not use existing right of ways along railway and highway. Further these should be direct burried instead of overhead , where they are subject to heavy winds etc. I would suggest someone follow the money, and push for new utility commissioners who understand private property rights.
On top of all this wind energy without GONERNMENT SUBSIDY are not viable. Its time for the DOE to quit feeding the energy renewable s and let proven energy prevail.