I’m writing to respectfully go on public record asking the Delaware House to pass Senate Bill 159 and override Sussex County Council’s recent denial of the conditional-use permit for a new clean energy substation in the existing Indian River industrial area location.
This new substation is a key piece of infrastructure that will help bring much-needed electric power to all of Delaware – despite untrue comments that all the power is going to Maryland.
Now that the dangerous Indian River coal-fired plant is finally shut down, this new on-site power station is a big step toward reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, creating good local jobs, improving community health and enhancing our air quality.
Council’s decision to block the permit is disappointing because it put local politics ahead of the real greater good picture – what’s best for the entire state population and our environment for future generations.
Some want to have the only say for our local communities over the greater good of all Delawareans, but we also need to be realistic about the urgent need for clean energy infrastructure, especially with the endless influx of homes, AI data facilities and Amazon distribution centers starved for electricity.
SB 159 would allow Delaware to move forward thoughtfully and responsibly while addressing any local concerns.
Passing this bill isn’t just about a precedent fight over home rule; it’s about ensuring Delaware stays on track to meet its covenant to build a healthier future for the future generations of all areas. I am hopeful our elected state leaders will do what’s right and vote for SB 159.
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