Proposed green energy facility near Skagit River causes concerns
Plans to build a battery energy storage system in Skagit County has taken neighbors in Sedro-Woolley by surprise.
SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. – Concerns are rising in Sedro-Woolley over a proposed green-energy facility just outside of downtown, with residents arguing the planned lithium battery storage site poses significant environmental and safety risks.
Opponents contend constructing the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) endangers nearby wetlands and erases precious farmland. Meanwhile, supporters say uninformed locals are spreading misinformation, and that the development by energy-giant Tenaska is a positive for this rural community.
Judi Haughness, a concerned Sedro-Woolley resident, was surprised at how the project almost went unnoticed in the community.
“It was brought to my attention through Facebook,” Haughness said.
According to Haughness, an estimated 48…
