Several solar energy projects across Wisconsin are facing community pushback, including two large projects being opposed by local governments. Town officials in northeast and central Wisconsin communities have come out against two utility-scale solar projects proposed in their communities. And village officials in south central Wisconsin delayed a vote on a small solar project after an hours-long public hearing.

The debate comes as a bill in the state Legislature would require local governments sign off on major solar or wind projects in their communities before state regulators.

Two of the big projects facing pushback include Fox Solar Project in the town of Morgan in Oconto County, and the Akron Solar Project in the town of Rome in Adams County and the town of Saratoga in Wood County. Both are being developed by Florida-based NextEra Energy Resources and require state approval but not local approval.

The Fox Solar Project would generate 100 megawatts, while the Akron Solar Project would generate 200 megawatts. For context, 100 megawatts of solar energy can power around 15,332 homes in Wisconsin.