A renewable energy provider is interested in purchasing the last land available in Macomb's business park. Mayor Mike Inman said Sunrise Energy Ventures out of Minnesota wants to build a solar garden, which is a smaller version of a solar farm.
The city is considering selling the company 17 acres off of E. University Dr. for a little more than $300,000.
Inman said the land is located directly next to Ameren Illinois’ facility.
"Alternative energy sources have a right to access the grid and sell their product. So, Sunrise energy is responsible for the cost of getting to the grid. So the shorter the distance, the better for them," Inman said.
Inman said Sunrise Energy would like to begin construction within 18 months.
Macomb aldermen must approve the sale of the land along with any other restrictions they plan to impose such as requiring fencing around the property to shield the view. The City has been leasing the space to an area farmer.
