Article

Saline County Commissioners voted 4-1 to deny a proposed 350-Megawatt Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) following a protest petition from affected landowners. The Planning Commission had previously recommended the project on November 25, 2025.

The BESS was to occupy less than 10 acres of a leased 15-acre area, located near Saline High School. Over 20% of property owners in the notification area signed the petition, representing more than 3,896 acres.

The proposal was part of Mountain Peak Energy Storage, LLC's application to provide grid support during peak power usage. Concerns about fire safety and community opposition influenced the commissioners' decision, despite the Planning Commission's approval. The denial means the project cannot proceed, but the applicant may reapply for a conditional use permit in one year.