Our community is deeply concerned about the proposal to install a Lithium-Ion Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Facility in our corner of McHenry County, IL, next to Prairieview Education Center and Silver Creek Conservation Area. We are a community that cherishes our health, safety, and the environment around us. This facility poses significant risks to our well-being and the ecosystem we strive to protect. 

The introduction of a large-scale battery storage facility (over 52 acres!) can bring about numerous environmental hazards. According to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines, such facilities can potentially lead to water and soil contamination due to possible leaks or failure of battery systems. Additionally, the proximity of this facility to residential areas increases the risk of exposure to toxic substances and potential fires, as lithium-ion batteries are known for their volatility and fire risks, as reported by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  

There is NO FIRE DEPARTMENT for the Village of Prairie Grove, although they have an agreement with the city of Crystal Lake. Nunda Rural Fire Department is very small and is not equipped to handle any kind of large-scale disaster, like one that could happen at this kind of facility.  It makes no sense to create this risk for our community. There's only one road in and out of both neighborhoods closest to the land where this would be located. There are no fire hydrants to protect our homes if a fire spreads.  Lithium ion batteries do catch on fire -- look up the term "Thermal Runaway" for more information. This type of fire needs to just burn until it goes out, which releases a lot of toxic chemicals into the air. If water is used to try to put it out it will create a chemical cloud that will fall down on the ground and into the Fox River and would affect our drinking water, because we are all on wells in this area. This cyanide cloud could potentially span many miles, not just impacting Prairie Grove Elementary and Junior High School, Prairieview Education Center, Silver Creek Conservation Area, Oakwood Hills and unincorporated McHenry County, but the Village of Prairie Grove, McHenry, Cary, Crystal Lake, Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, Fox River Grove, Island Lake and more.  We encourage you to do your own research, check into the potential for fire and the real dangers we would face.

Fires are obviously the biggest threat. But there are more issues that we would have to deal with even if it weren't to catch on fire. There will be noise: it will make noise twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. The expected audio range is somewhere between 70-90 decibels. There could be light pollution also, depending on how close you are to it. The concrete will displace our water, leading to potential flooding and runoff or pollution to our drinking water and the Fox River.  The conservation area will be compromised.  Lastly, what happens when it fails?  Who is responsible for carrying the cost of repairs or mitigation, and when the battery life is over, the clean up and disposal of the facility?

Beyond the immediate health and safety risks, this facility threatens the local wildlife and ecosystems that are part of our community. Studies have shown that construction and operation of industrial sites can disrupt local habitats, leading to displacement and decline of wildlife and native species. This not only affects biodiversity but also the natural beauty and ecological balance of our area.  

We must also consider the impact on property values and the quality of life for residents. Real estate experts have noted that proximity to industrial facilities can lead to declines in property prices and deter potential buyers, impacting the economic viability of our neighborhood. We cannot afford to compromise our community’s future for short-term gains, and we can't put our lives and our children's lives at risk.

We urge our local government, state agencies and planning authorities to reconsider the decision to allow this facility in our area. There are alternative sites and energy solutions that do not jeopardize our community’s health and environment. 

Join us in protecting ourselves and our neighbors from this potentially harmful industrial development. Your signature can make a difference in safeguarding our lives, homes, environment, water, and wildlife from the adverse effects of establishing a BESS Lithium-Ion Battery Facility. Sign this petition and help us demand a safer and more sustainable future for our community.