Proponents say their plants are safe, state-of-the-art facilities that pose no threat to public health and safety.
Waste wood chips such as these are used to fuel biomass plants.Developers of wood-burning plants in Springfield and Russell say they are not the pollution-spewing, forest-stripping, lung-searing promoters that some might fear.
The developers, aided by their engineers and hired consultants, are seeking final approval from the state needed to begin construction of their biomass energy projects. The process, in each case, has lasted several years.
The proponents say their plants are safe, state-of-the-art facilities that pose no threat to public health and safety.
In both cases, however, the projects have stirred opposition from various individuals and groups, saying the plants will worsen air pollution and create health hazards.
During recent meetings with the Editorial Board of The Republican, the developers said they have shown their projects meet and exceed all state and federal regulations for emissions and air quality. In addition, they said the plants will be closely monitored by various state and federal agencies.
The proponents also denied allegations made by some opponents that the projects will result in clear-cutting of some forest areas, or that their proposals to use wood as fuel is just a ruse to eventually switch to construction and demolition debris.
There is great supply of wood to fuel the plants without any need for clear-cut harvesting, the developers said.
Both plants have secured nearly all permits needed to proceed with construction, while the opponents continue efforts to block the projects.
In Springfield, the City Council has scheduled a public hearing Tuesday, at 4:30 p.m., at City Hall, to consider either amending or revoking a special permit for the Palmer Renewable Energy project.
The developers say there is no justification for revocation of the 2008 permit, and have threatened legal action if the permit is revoked.
In Russell, the developers say they have obtained most of the permits needed to proceed with the project.