The Navy plans to build a 32.8-megawatt solar power facility on 227 acres at its base in New Jersey.
The size of the Naval Weapons Station Earle project at six sites in Colts Neck and Tinton Falls is larger than the recently approved plan to construct a 21-megawatt solar facility at Six Flags Great Adventure theme park in Jackson that drew opposition because it would mean the loss of 15,000 trees.
There is no word on how many trees would be cut in the military installation.
The Navy's plan calls for leasing the properties to a utility that would construct and operate the facility.
Environment New Jersey director Doug O'Malley tells the Asbury Park Press it's a "green mistake'' to replace forested lands with solar panels.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
