FORT MILL, S.C. — A controversial solar panel manufacturing facility has the approval to move forward with all construction in York County.
Silfab Solar received permits from both the county and the state to move into the next construction phase.
READ MORE:
- Solar cell manufacturing facility passes procedural hurdle despite neighbors’ concerns
- York County zoning board reverses decision on solar cell manufacturer
- Solar project opponents plan protest at York County council meeting
- A first look inside the controversial Fort Mill solar manufacturing facility
- York County says Silfab’s solar project has the green light, despite zoning appeal
- County council members receive death threats over controversial solar panel plant
Neighbors have protested the project due to its location next to two Fort Mills schools and toxic chemicals stored on site.
In a statement, Silfab Solar said, “we’ve heard the community’s concerns and made adjustments to our plans that exceed safety requirements from the EPA, OSHA standards and state/local regulations.”
A spokesperson for York County told Channel 9 the approval was not a new or revised permit, but an affirmation that Silfab is still in compliance after making some changes to their design.
The county also said it approved Silfab last Friday to do “internal building work” and also build other, smaller, equipment buildings.
Silfab Solar’s full statement is below:
“Silfab Solar is excited to proceed into our next phase of construction with permits from both York County and South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES). We’ve heard the community’s concerns and made adjustments to our plans that exceed safety requirements from the EPA, OSHA standards and state/local regulations. Our unwavering commitment to safety ensures the well-being of our employees, neighbors and the environment.”
(WATCH BELOW: County council members receive death threats over controversial solar panel plant)
This browser does not support the video element.