Renewable energy groups explore leasing options

Renewable energy developers are exploring leasing options across Auglaize County with solar energy being the most popular pursuit.

One of those developers is Open Road Renewables, based in Texas. They continue to seek land leases in Moulton Township. The company is proposing an 800-acre development with a maximum output of 117-137 megawatts.

Moulton Township is located between Wapakoneta and St. Mary, with the majority of the 28 miles located north of U.S. 33.

Company Vice President Doug Herling said they are still in the early stages, and are a year out from submitting proposals to the Ohio Power Siting Board.

Moulton Township Fiscal Officer Larry Johns said trustees first heard about Open Road’s inquiries about a year ago. It is unclear exactly what the project’s proposed boundaries will be as leases are still being negotiated.

Herling also said there are still a slew of environmental studies to be completed before the project is submitted. He said they chose Moulton because of the flat land away from homes, as well as its location in the electrical grid.

Herling said they anticipate an

economic benefit to the area from the project from tax revenue to area schools.

He said a Payment in Lieu of Taxes was one option for a tax structure but that there were other options as well.

From Moulton eastward much of the county is already being scouted for renewable energy development.