Chatham-Kent council reaffirmed on Monday that it is open for business when it comes to renewable energy.

The decision followed a presentation of a wind turbine action plan by economic development services.

Kim Cooper, agricultural co-ordinator with the department, said there were concerns with mixed messages, especially since council recently voted to increase turbine minimum setback distances.

"It has raised some issues and we're trying to address those," he said.

The report was requested in April and discussed building relationships with wind energy companies, manufacturers, educational institutions and different levels of government.

West Kent Coun. Brian King said he's heard many positive comments that reinforce the direction Chatham-Kent was taking.

"I think it's very important we reaffirm our commitment," he said. "The public in general are very happy with this."

However, Wallaceburg Coun. Sheldon Parsons expressed concern with the word "reaffirm."

He was worried about this statement impacting the decision- making ability of council in the future.

"I don't want to be sending the wrong message a second time," he said.

Interim chief administrative officer David Weldon assured Parsons that wasn't the intention.

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"It doesn't deal with specific applications," Weldon said.

Chatham Coun. Doug Sulman said he was more interested in other forms of alternative energy than wind.

He said solar panels could be installed in brownfield areas with minimal visual impact.

"I would prefer them to be on those sites," he said.

Without discussing specifics, Cooper said organizations have approached the municipality about possible solar power ventures.

Included in Monday's recommendation was the concept of an interpretive centre for renewable energy, similar to a facility near the wind farm in Port Burwell.

The municipality will also write to the provincial and federal governments on the merits of requiring a majority of wind turbine components to be manufactured in Ontario.

"Most of the product is coming from overseas," said Chatham-Kent Mayor Randy Hope.