Solar Plant Debate Continues Amid Health Concerns

With questions still unanswered on the potential health risks associated with the proposed Bullard Farm solar plant, Planning Board members decided Monday night to extend a public hearing on the issue to gather more evidence.

During the hearing, representatives for Renewable Energy Massachusetts presented technical data opposing the health concerns residents have voiced in recent weeks over the 2-megawatt solar array.

But when residents had their turn to speak, they turned to the human element to present their case. 

"I cant walk with my three children if I can't hear because my implant is buzzing," said Stacey McGovern, an area resident with a cochlear implant, a device that helps her hear. "There is no one who can guarantee it won't be affected."

David Colombo, an electrical engineer working for REM, said the electromagnetic field of the plant would be .2 milligauss in output, about 1/10th of what the average person receives per day. 

Tom Gilbert, a Bullard Street resident, raised concerns over the material makeup of the proposed solar panels. He cited a document from the expected panel manufacturer, Canadian Solar, that lead may be used to solder the array's components. The board asked REM to provide data on this concern before the next hearing. 

"You need to look at the bigger picture," resident Marty Lamb said referencing the potential impact on housing prices. "[Holliston] home buyers could think the same thing could happen in their neighborhood."

The hearing is set to continue on March 22. 

"The next meeting will probably be the last one," Planning Board chairman Jack Donovan said.