A series of public meetings is underway in the area regarding a high voltage transmission line project.
The Grain Belt Express Clean Line is the name of a project that will transport electricity generated by wind power in Kansas to Illinois and other states. It would run through west central Illinois, starting in Pike County and east into Macoupin, Christian and Shelby counties among others....then on to Indiana.
It's being touted as a way to bring lower cost renewable energy to more consumers and create jobs. But concerns have been raised over the potential seizure of property through eminent domain. Power provider Commonwealth Edison is also fighting the project as its power plants would compete with it.
The meetings will help determine the final route for the project. While transmission lines are not taxed in Illinois, local governments could benefit as the project's backers have promised to make annual payments.
Click here for meeting information and more.
