Sumner County Commissioners Reject Nextera Battery Storage Facility

Quick Summary: 

• Sumner County Commissioners unanimously denied Nextera Energy's permit for a 300 MW battery storage facility near Wellington

• Decision overturned Planning and Zoning Board recommendation; Nextera has 30 days to appeal

• Commissioners cited safety concerns, noise pollution, and residential proximity as key factors

SUMNER COUNTY, Kan. — Sumner County Commissioners voted 3-0 Tuesday to deny a Conditional Use Permit to Nextera Energy for a proposed 300-megawatt battery energy storage facility, overturning a recommendation from the county's Planning and Zoning Board, according to the Sumner Newscow. Commissioners John Cooney, Jim Newell and Steve Warner rejected the Webb Road project following more than two hours of testimony from 38 speakers, most opposing the facility, with citizens giving commissioners a standing ovation after the vote. County Attorney Doug Pfalzgraf said Nextera can appeal the decision to district court within 30 days under Kansas statute.

Cooney cited concerns about industrial zoning in a residential area, noting more than 700 homes exist within two miles of the proposed site on Webb Road, a half mile north of U.S. 160. He expressed worry about the county's ability to safely regulate the emerging battery storage technology and potential noise impacts on multi-generational farms. Commissioner Steve Warner echoed noise concerns, comparing it to sound from existing wind farms in the area. Only two of the speakers at the Raymond Frye Complex meeting supported the project, with Nextera representatives saying current battery technology has advanced significantly since a 2020 facility fire.