Local residents express their concerns during a protest against the Silfab solar manufacturing plant in York County.
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Sponsor Our ArticlesResidents of York County express outrage over plans for a Silfab solar manufacturing plant, citing safety hazards and environmental concerns related to toxic chemicals. The project has sparked protests and raised alarm, especially as schools are being constructed nearby. The community is concerned about potential health risks posed by the plant’s operations and the recent death threats received by council members supporting the initiative. Ongoing discussions about the facility’s zoning and community safety continue.
York County residents are buzzing with outrage and concern as plans for a new solar manufacturing facility by Silfab are moving forward. This all came to a head at the recent county council meeting held on February 3, 2025, where the air was thick with tension as community members spoke out about potential safety hazards and zoning issues related to the proposed $150 million plant in Fort Mill.
During the council gathering, a long line of residents voiced their worries about Silfab’s operations, particularly the environmental impact. This news comes on the heels of a significant protest where hundreds expressed their discontent about the facility’s plans. Residents are especially alarmed by the toxic chemicals that the plant is set to use, including hydrogen fluoride, hydrochloric acid, and toluene. Each of these compounds carries potential dangers, making the community even more anxious.
Residents raised red flags about the decision made by the York County Zoning Board of Appeals, which unanimously voted against allowing solar panel manufacturing in light industrial zones. However, in a twist, this ruling does not impact Silfab, as the county argues that manufacturing solar panels in these zones is permissible.
With two schools under construction nearby, many community members are apprehensive about the environmental health risks the plant could pose. The use of Category 1 and Category 3 air pollutants is a significant concern, leading to fears about potential accidents and health issues stemming from the plant’s operations.
Adding to the environment-related turmoil, council chair Christi Cox and Councilmember William Roddey disclosed that they have even received death threats due to their support for Silfab. This alarming revelation shows just how heated this situation has become. Many believe that the risks posed by the chemicals may far outweigh the benefits of having a solar panel manufacturing plant in their backyard.
A recent community forum allowed residents to step up and voice their concerns directly to the council. Each participant had just two minutes to express their feelings, emphasizing how crucial their concerns are regarding safety and environmental integrity.
Amid the debates on Silfab, the council also considered reinstating a family exemption provision meant to simplify rural zoning and reduce unnecessary rezonings. This could help ease some community tensions surrounding zoning, but the fate of Silfab’s plans remains a hot topic.
As of now, a timeline issued by the county indicates that Silfab received confirmation back in December 2022, stating that solar panel manufacturing falls under permissible activities in light industrial areas. This has likely fueled ongoing public complaints about the company’s plans, especially since the community remains overwhelmingly anxious about the potential repercussions of the plant’s operations.
The council’s subsequent decisions, particularly those related to rezoning with deed restrictions and a deferred vote on an agricultural property rezoning for further study, will shape the future of York County. As the community continues to voice both support and criticism, one thing is clear: the conversation surrounding Silfab will not be cooling off anytime soon. For residents, it’s a wait-and-see game as they remain vigilant about the environmental and safety implications of this impending manufacturing facility.
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