County Awards $1M in Energy Grants; Discusses New Wind Farm and EV Chargers

Montgomery County Board Meeting | Nov. 12, 2025

Article Summary: Montgomery County continues to expand its energy portfolio, accepting over $1 million in state transition grants while opening discussions for a new wind farm near Raymond and Nokomis.

Energy & Infrastructure Key Points:

• Grant Award: The county was awarded $1,092,450.34 in Phase 3 of the DCEO Energy Transition Community Grant.

• New Wind Farm: Pattern Energy is proposing the “Shoals Renewable” wind/solar farm, targeting construction for 2027.

• EV Charging: The City of Hillsboro requested permission to install an EV charging station on the Courthouse Square to boost tourism.

• Coal Royalties: The county’s Coal Fund balance currently stands at $10.5 million.

HILLSBORO, Ill. – The Montgomery County Board on Tuesday, November 12, 2025, moved forward with several major energy initiatives, including the acceptance of a massive state grant and preliminary talks regarding a new wind farm development.

Development & Personnel Committee Chairman Chad Ruppert announced that the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) awarded the county $1,092,450.34 as part of the Energy Transition Community Grant. This funding is designed to aid communities impacted by plant or mine retirements. An ad hoc committee began meeting on November 10 to determine specific projects for these funds.

In the private sector, Pattern Energy, a North American energy developer, has approached the county regarding the “Shoals Renewable Wind/Solar Farm.” According to Roads & Bridges Committee Chairman Ethan Murzynski, the developer is eyeing the Raymond and Nokomis area for the project.

“Pattern plans to start in 2026, apply for permitting in 2027, and begin construction in 2027,” Murzynski reported. County Engineer Cody Greenwood has begun discussions with the developer regarding the project’s scope.

On a smaller scale, electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure was also on the agenda. Hillsboro City Commissioner Kendra Wright presented a proposal to the Buildings & Grounds Committee to install grant-funded EV charging stations in Hillsboro, including one located on the Courthouse Square.

Board Member Patty Whitworth spoke in favor of the chargers, noting that currently, the only public charging station in the county is located in Litchfield. “Adding more stations is important for tourism,” Whitworth noted. The Buildings & Grounds Committee is currently reviewing the logistics of the request, including internet connectivity for payment processing.

The board also reviewed the Coal Mine Royalty Fund, which received a royalty payment of $180,946.23 in September. The fund now holds a total balance of $10,564,728.