Delaware County plans to amend its solar zoning ordinance and lift a moratorium on the construction of new solar farms that was implemented after local opposition stalled the project.
A moratorium on solar farms in Indiana's Delaware County is set to expire on February 22, despite protests from local farmers and residents who oppose a planned solar project, known as Meadow Forge, in Washington Township. As David Penticuff reports for the Muncie Star Press, the date falls after the Delaware Muncie Plan Commission will meet to approve changes to the solar zoning ordinance which will eliminate the requirement for a variance for solar panels. Among other changes, the commissioners want to increase setbacks to 100 feet, although some residents are asking for larger setbacks due to fire concerns.
While supporters of the project say it will bring revenue and a clean source of energy to the community, Penticuff reports elsewhere that opponents worry about the loss of farmland and the impacts of solar arrays on local ecosystems. The county expects to receive around $155 million in direct investment over the life of the project, investment badly needed in an area formerly dependent on now-defunct coal plants.
Around the country, solar farms are facing increasing opposition from neighboring property owners as the industry scales up to meet growing demand for renewable energy, expressing concerns about effects on their environment and land values.
FULL STORY: Moratorium on building solar farms in Delaware County to expire Feb. 22
Delaware County Pauses Solar Applications In Response to Local Opposition
Large-scale solar developments face rising hostility from neighboring property owners who cite concerns about environmental degradation, reduced property values, and loss of farmland.
Ohio Counties Can Now Ban Renewable Energy Projects
A new state law allows counties to deny wind and solar projects in their jurisdictions, and at least ten counties have already moved to implement bans.
Local Opposition Threatens to Cripple Solar Expansion
A bevy of real and unfounded claims against solar farms is feeding a growing opposition movement in rural areas.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How Community Science Connects People, Parks, and Biodiversity
Community science engages people of all backgrounds in documenting local biodiversity, strengthening connections to nature, and contributing to global efforts like the City Nature Challenge to build a more inclusive and resilient future.
Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”
Dear Tesla Driver: “It’s not You, It’s Him.”
Amidst a booming bumper sticker industry, one writer offers solace to those asking, “Does this car make me look fascist?”
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Santa Clarita
Ascent Environmental
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service