Local Residents Oppose Massive Solar Park Approval in Tönnersjö
Residents in Tönnersjö are opposing a large solar park project, raising concerns over its environmental impact and community disruption.
Key Points
- • The solar park could cover 450 hectares of forest land.
- • Local residents are distressed, with emotional testimonies highlighting their fears.
- • Both residents and the Halmstad municipality have appealed the decision.
- • The case will be reviewed by the Land and Environmental Court.
In Tönnersjö, a controversial plan for a solar park covering 450 hectares of forest land has been approved by the County Administrative Board, potentially becoming the largest solar park in Sweden. Local residents are deeply distressed by the project which is spearheaded by Ilmatar Sweden AB. One resident, Jan Stenfelt, expressed the emotional impact on his family, stating, "My wife cried" upon hearing the news.
The approval has sparked significant opposition, both from residents like Stenfelt and the local Halmstad municipality, which also contests the park’s proposed location. In response to this opposition, both parties have filed appeals that will bring the case before the Land and Environmental Court for further examination.
Ilmatar acknowledges the community’s concerns and claims they have been transparent about the project’s potential impacts. Project manager Robert Wedmo mentioned that they invited consultation from the municipality and residents; however, the municipality did not engage in these discussions. The County Administrative Board noted that the decision was a balancing act between various interests, reflecting the complex nature of such large-scale developments.