Energy Commission Denies Wind Farm Proposal
On Friday, the California Energy Commission officially rejected the Fountain Wind project, bringing to a close a lengthy dispute in Shasta County over the controversial development.
During a meeting in Sacramento, commissioners followed the advice of their executive director, who had previously recommended against approving the wind farm.
Executive Director Drew Bohan had issued his recommendation in November, following a staff assessment that determined the project's environmental costs were too significant compared to its potential benefits.
Local Officials Respond
Shasta County Board of Supervisors Chair Chris Kelstrom and county Chief Executive Officer David Rickert were present at the meeting.
“The landmark effort to override local governance by the State of California has short-circuited today.” Rickert said in a news release.
Kelstrom stated: "This project was never suited for the heavily forested eastern region of Shasta County, and I’d like to take a moment to thank our community, especially the Pit River Tribe, and Redding Rancheria, who have been leaders in every effort to oppose this Project. Without their support, we would not have been successful today.”
In his formal recommendation, Bohan cited "numerous significant and unavoidable environmental impacts specifically associated with the Fountain Wind project" as justification for denial.
Background of the Dispute
In October 2021, Shasta County supervisors had already voted against the project, rejecting ConnectGen's appeal of the county Planning Commission's earlier decision. That meeting included extensive public commentary lasting over ten hours.
However, state legislation passed in 2022 gave the Energy Commission authority to review the project despite local opposition, setting the stage for Friday's final decision.
