# Bannock County Revises Renewable Energy Ban

Bannock County, Idaho, which banned utility-scale solar and wind projects in 2024, is now preparing to adopt a new ordinance that will permit renewable energy and nuclear development. This policy reversal reflects the county's recognition of increasing electricity demand and the economic benefits of clean energy infrastructure. The change opens procurement opportunities for renewable energy developers and contractors to engage in local energy projects, impacting regional energy planning and property rights considerations.

- Bannock County Commission is the key decision-maker revising land-use regulations to allow renewables and nuclear energy.
- Renewable energy developers such as Balanced Rock Power and Hecate Energy may find new project opportunities in the county.
- Procurement professionals should note the evolving regulatory environment affecting project feasibility and local stakeholder engagement.
- This shift signals growing demand for infrastructure investments in rural Idaho, relevant for contractors specializing in energy development and grid integration.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 25, 2026

### Government Entities
- Bannock County Commission
- Idaho Power
- U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
- Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
- Bonneville Power Administration (BPA)

### 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
- [A rural county banned renewables. It’s having second thoughts | Walterboro Live](https://walterborolive.com/premium/stacker/stories/a-rural-county-banned-renewables-itrsquos-having-second-thoughts,213964) - Walterboro Live