Opposition to Wind, Solar, Hydrogen Farm in Converse and Natrona County
The Issue
If you are interested in this petition please visit the facebook page Against Pronghorn H2 Wind Project Glenrock, as we are going to be using the jotform online signing platform instead of change.org. Thank you
Please only one signature per petition as duplicates will not count.
We, the undersigned, stand united in voicing our concerns and opposition to the proposed Pronghorn H2 Project – a massive wind farm, solar farm, and hydrogen facility set to disrupt the Front Range of the Laramie Mountains and the North Platte River ecosystems. This project poses significant threats to the environment, the local wildlife, and the delicate ecological balance we strive to protect. Together, we must act to ensure that the natural beauty and biodiversity of our region are preserved for future generations. Your signature can make a difference. Join us in urging decision-makers to reconsider this project and explore more sustainable alternatives.
Introduction
PRONGHORN H2, LLC is proposing a wind farm along the Front Range of the Laramie Mountains south of the Town of Glenrock, Wyoming associated with a proposed solar farm and Hydrogen refinery adjacent to The North Platte River east of Glenrock. The proposed project will be located on private land and the State of Wyoming Lands with some parcels of Federal Land adjacent to or surrounded by the project footprint. The Wyoming State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB) approved leasing State Land for the project on April 3, 2025.
Key Concerns and Arguments
The announcement of the Pronghorn H2 Project has sparked significant opposition from various stakeholders, residents and community members. This document aims to outline briefly the primary concerns and arguments of many of those opposing the project.
Environmental Impact
The Pronghorn H2 Project has raised substantial concerns regarding its potential environmental impact. The erection of wind turbines will disrupt local wildlife habitats, particularly affecting bird and bat populations. History shows that wind turbines will lead to increased mortality rates among these species, thereby disturbing the ecological balance. The current systems being used to reduce the bird strike potential are improving but are experimental at the best. Per the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, habitat for several endangered species (Bald and Golden Eagles, Peregrine Falcons and others) are near or in the project footprint. The proposed area of wind turbine placement is prime wintering ground for mule deer and pronghorn antelope. In recent years, WGFD has worked diligently to improve/enhance the mountain mahogany in this area, only to see the habitat destroyed by wind farm construction. Similarly, the Solar Farm project site lies within a migratory path for several bird species. In addition, the proposed site of the solar farm and hydrogen plant is home to a diverse flora and fauna, habitat for fish, waterfowl and endangered species. Furthermore, the construction process itself will result in the destruction of natural habitats and vegetation, further aggravating the negative environmental impact of the project area.
Safety Concerns
Synthesizing aviation fuel by mixing hydrogen with carbon dioxide involves complex chemical processes (refining) that are relatively new. Even though, production of Green Hydrogen is promoted as environmentally friendly it is troubled by safety concerns. Green Hydrogen is highly flammable, even explosive. Carbon Dioxide, while less flammable, can also be harmful if released in high concentrations. In addition, the safety challenges of storage and transport of hydrogen, carbon dioxide and the resulting fuels raise concerns for the neighboring communities.
Water Use
Green Hydrogen production requires substantial amounts of water. In arid regions, such as the proposed site, water is a precious commodity. There is a real risk of impacting local water supplies, particularly in our area already facing drought conditions. Latest information suggests water will be drawn from the North Platte River; therefore, impacts may be felt downstream of the project site. Pronghorn H2 Project literature estimates their usable water requirement at 300 acre-feet per year (1 acre-foot = 325,851 gallons). More importantly, readily available information suggests the water draw to achieve 300 acre-feet of usable water could be as high as an additional 40% or 420 acre-feet. Not included in these volumes is the water associated with solar farm construction and maintenance.
Visual and Aesthetic Concerns
Another significant argument against the wind farm portion of the project revolves around its impact on the visual and aesthetic appeal of the region. The towering wind turbines and their blinking red lights will mar the natural beauty of the landscape, leading to a loss of scenic vistas and potentially affecting tourism in the area. Radar driven systems to supposedly turn the lights on only when aircraft are in the vicinity are problematic, so the default position is “on”. Often overlooked but of significance is the flickering and shadowing that comes with wind turbines. The alteration of the visual environment is viewed as a detriment to the region's charm and appeal. Similar concerns exist regarding the solar farm and hydrogen refinery portion of the project. The location proposed for the solar farm and hydrogen refinery, adjacent to the North Platte will significantly impact the “viewscape” of the area. Inherent with solar panels is the high probability of glint and glare as the panels track the sun, creating a reduction in quality of life for residents and wildlife. In addition, construction will encroach upon areas of cultural and historical significance. Be it the trails that westbound settlers followed, graves of the unfortunate ones, teepee and ceremonial rings of indigenous people or simply the natural beauty of the area. The impact on the heritage of the area is unmistakable.
Noise Pollution
The issue of noise pollution is serious concern by opponents of the Pronghorn H2 Project. Wind turbines are known to produce constant hum and mechanical noises, which can be a source of disturbance for nearby residents. Green Hydrogen production and CO2 refining will make noise from electrolysis units, cooling systems, compressors, maintenance activities and traffic potentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The noise generated will negatively impact on the quality of life, causing stress and sleep disturbances for those living in proximity to the wind farm and hydrogen refinery. And pose further impact to wildlife habitat and migration patterns.
Economic Concerns
Economic arguments also play a role in the opposition to the project. Some stakeholders believe that the financial benefits promised by the project will not materialize as expected. They caution against potential hidden costs, such as road maintenance and operational expenses, which could outweigh the anticipated economic gains. Any shortfall in funding will be burdened on the taxpayers. Of prime concern is the potential strain on emergency services, primarily local fire departments and resources should the unspeakable happen, thus risking harm to adjacent properties. Furthermore, there is skepticism regarding the long-term viability and profitability of the entire project, with some suggesting that the investment may be ill conceived. Of concern about the project’s viability is the high cost of Green Hydrogen production, thus making the creation of aviation fuel much more expensive and less marketable than conventionally produced aviation fuel. Therefore, of paramount concern for all aspects of the project (wind, solar and hydrogen) is adequate decommissioning funds should the project fail or even should it succeed to its suggested 40-year useful life.
Property Value
The obvious impact on property values is a major concern for local residents. The establishment of this project will lead to a depreciation of property values in the region. Homeowners worry that the massive footprint of wind turbines, solar panels, and hydrogen refinery and associated buildings and tanks will make their properties less attractive to potential buyers, thereby affecting their investments and economic stability.Recent studies indicate that a reduction in value for properties near, in view of or within ear shot of wind turbines, solar farms and noisy Green Hydrogen refineries is likely. When situated near, in view of or within ear shot of all three industrial facilities,property value reduction is a certainty.
Community Division
The Pronghorn H2 Project has also created division within the community. The controversy surrounding the project has led to tension among residents. The debate over the project has forced residents to “take sides” regarding the project’s viability, safety, and impacts on the residents and the community.
Conclusion
In summary, the opposition to the Pronghorn H2 Hydrogen Project is multifaceted, encompassing environmental, visual, noise, water use, safety, economic, property value, and community concerns. A fair analysis of the project will show that the negative impacts far outweigh the benefits, calling for a thorough reassessment of its feasibility and consequences.
The Issue
If you are interested in this petition please visit the facebook page Against Pronghorn H2 Wind Project Glenrock, as we are going to be using the jotform online signing platform instead of change.org. Thank you
Please only one signature per petition as duplicates will not count.
We, the undersigned, stand united in voicing our concerns and opposition to the proposed Pronghorn H2 Project – a massive wind farm, solar farm, and hydrogen facility set to disrupt the Front Range of the Laramie Mountains and the North Platte River ecosystems. This project poses significant threats to the environment, the local wildlife, and the delicate ecological balance we strive to protect. Together, we must act to ensure that the natural beauty and biodiversity of our region are preserved for future generations. Your signature can make a difference. Join us in urging decision-makers to reconsider this project and explore more sustainable alternatives.
Introduction
PRONGHORN H2, LLC is proposing a wind farm along the Front Range of the Laramie Mountains south of the Town of Glenrock, Wyoming associated with a proposed solar farm and Hydrogen refinery adjacent to The North Platte River east of Glenrock. The proposed project will be located on private land and the State of Wyoming Lands with some parcels of Federal Land adjacent to or surrounded by the project footprint. The Wyoming State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB) approved leasing State Land for the project on April 3, 2025.
Key Concerns and Arguments
The announcement of the Pronghorn H2 Project has sparked significant opposition from various stakeholders, residents and community members. This document aims to outline briefly the primary concerns and arguments of many of those opposing the project.
Environmental Impact
The Pronghorn H2 Project has raised substantial concerns regarding its potential environmental impact. The erection of wind turbines will disrupt local wildlife habitats, particularly affecting bird and bat populations. History shows that wind turbines will lead to increased mortality rates among these species, thereby disturbing the ecological balance. The current systems being used to reduce the bird strike potential are improving but are experimental at the best. Per the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, habitat for several endangered species (Bald and Golden Eagles, Peregrine Falcons and others) are near or in the project footprint. The proposed area of wind turbine placement is prime wintering ground for mule deer and pronghorn antelope. In recent years, WGFD has worked diligently to improve/enhance the mountain mahogany in this area, only to see the habitat destroyed by wind farm construction. Similarly, the Solar Farm project site lies within a migratory path for several bird species. In addition, the proposed site of the solar farm and hydrogen plant is home to a diverse flora and fauna, habitat for fish, waterfowl and endangered species. Furthermore, the construction process itself will result in the destruction of natural habitats and vegetation, further aggravating the negative environmental impact of the project area.
Safety Concerns
Synthesizing aviation fuel by mixing hydrogen with carbon dioxide involves complex chemical processes (refining) that are relatively new. Even though, production of Green Hydrogen is promoted as environmentally friendly it is troubled by safety concerns. Green Hydrogen is highly flammable, even explosive. Carbon Dioxide, while less flammable, can also be harmful if released in high concentrations. In addition, the safety challenges of storage and transport of hydrogen, carbon dioxide and the resulting fuels raise concerns for the neighboring communities.
Water Use
Green Hydrogen production requires substantial amounts of water. In arid regions, such as the proposed site, water is a precious commodity. There is a real risk of impacting local water supplies, particularly in our area already facing drought conditions. Latest information suggests water will be drawn from the North Platte River; therefore, impacts may be felt downstream of the project site. Pronghorn H2 Project literature estimates their usable water requirement at 300 acre-feet per year (1 acre-foot = 325,851 gallons). More importantly, readily available information suggests the water draw to achieve 300 acre-feet of usable water could be as high as an additional 40% or 420 acre-feet. Not included in these volumes is the water associated with solar farm construction and maintenance.
Visual and Aesthetic Concerns
Another significant argument against the wind farm portion of the project revolves around its impact on the visual and aesthetic appeal of the region. The towering wind turbines and their blinking red lights will mar the natural beauty of the landscape, leading to a loss of scenic vistas and potentially affecting tourism in the area. Radar driven systems to supposedly turn the lights on only when aircraft are in the vicinity are problematic, so the default position is “on”. Often overlooked but of significance is the flickering and shadowing that comes with wind turbines. The alteration of the visual environment is viewed as a detriment to the region's charm and appeal. Similar concerns exist regarding the solar farm and hydrogen refinery portion of the project. The location proposed for the solar farm and hydrogen refinery, adjacent to the North Platte will significantly impact the “viewscape” of the area. Inherent with solar panels is the high probability of glint and glare as the panels track the sun, creating a reduction in quality of life for residents and wildlife. In addition, construction will encroach upon areas of cultural and historical significance. Be it the trails that westbound settlers followed, graves of the unfortunate ones, teepee and ceremonial rings of indigenous people or simply the natural beauty of the area. The impact on the heritage of the area is unmistakable.
Noise Pollution
The issue of noise pollution is serious concern by opponents of the Pronghorn H2 Project. Wind turbines are known to produce constant hum and mechanical noises, which can be a source of disturbance for nearby residents. Green Hydrogen production and CO2 refining will make noise from electrolysis units, cooling systems, compressors, maintenance activities and traffic potentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The noise generated will negatively impact on the quality of life, causing stress and sleep disturbances for those living in proximity to the wind farm and hydrogen refinery. And pose further impact to wildlife habitat and migration patterns.
Economic Concerns
Economic arguments also play a role in the opposition to the project. Some stakeholders believe that the financial benefits promised by the project will not materialize as expected. They caution against potential hidden costs, such as road maintenance and operational expenses, which could outweigh the anticipated economic gains. Any shortfall in funding will be burdened on the taxpayers. Of prime concern is the potential strain on emergency services, primarily local fire departments and resources should the unspeakable happen, thus risking harm to adjacent properties. Furthermore, there is skepticism regarding the long-term viability and profitability of the entire project, with some suggesting that the investment may be ill conceived. Of concern about the project’s viability is the high cost of Green Hydrogen production, thus making the creation of aviation fuel much more expensive and less marketable than conventionally produced aviation fuel. Therefore, of paramount concern for all aspects of the project (wind, solar and hydrogen) is adequate decommissioning funds should the project fail or even should it succeed to its suggested 40-year useful life.
Property Value
The obvious impact on property values is a major concern for local residents. The establishment of this project will lead to a depreciation of property values in the region. Homeowners worry that the massive footprint of wind turbines, solar panels, and hydrogen refinery and associated buildings and tanks will make their properties less attractive to potential buyers, thereby affecting their investments and economic stability.Recent studies indicate that a reduction in value for properties near, in view of or within ear shot of wind turbines, solar farms and noisy Green Hydrogen refineries is likely. When situated near, in view of or within ear shot of all three industrial facilities,property value reduction is a certainty.
Community Division
The Pronghorn H2 Project has also created division within the community. The controversy surrounding the project has led to tension among residents. The debate over the project has forced residents to “take sides” regarding the project’s viability, safety, and impacts on the residents and the community.
Conclusion
In summary, the opposition to the Pronghorn H2 Hydrogen Project is multifaceted, encompassing environmental, visual, noise, water use, safety, economic, property value, and community concerns. A fair analysis of the project will show that the negative impacts far outweigh the benefits, calling for a thorough reassessment of its feasibility and consequences.
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on April 26, 2025