# Bannock County Reverses Renewable Energy Ban

Bannock County, Idaho, is moving to reverse its 2024 ban on utility-scale solar and wind development by adopting a new ordinance that will permit solar, wind, and nuclear energy projects. This policy shift responds to rising electricity demand and aims to stimulate economic growth through clean energy investments. The decision follows the withdrawal of the Harmon II Solar Project application on public land and highlights ongoing local debates balancing economic benefits with land use and environmental concerns.

- Bannock County's policy change opens procurement opportunities for renewable energy developers, including solar and wind projects, potentially revitalizing the local clean energy market.
- Developers like Balanced Rock Power and Hecate Energy are positioned to engage with new project solicitations, especially for large-scale solar facilities with battery storage.
- Procurement professionals should note the involvement of federal entities such as the U.S. Department of Energy and Bureau of Land Management, which may influence permitting and funding.
- This development signals increased demand for infrastructure and services related to renewable energy deployment in Idaho, encouraging contractors to prepare for upcoming solicitations and partnerships.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 15, 2026

### Government Entities
- Bannock County Commission
- Idaho Power
- Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
- U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

### Vendors
- Balanced Rock Power (Developer)
- Hecate Energy (Developer)

### Key Quotes
> The need to build stuff now is critical to Idaho’s economic future.
> — Aaron Menenberg, Idaho Policy Manager, Renewable Northwest

### Sources
- [Idaho county weighs reversing ban on solar, wind development | AGDAILY](https://www.agdaily.com/technology/idaho-county-weighs-reversing-ban-on-solar-wind-development) - AGDAILY