As demand for renewable energy rises, Ohio finds itself in the midst of heated debates over the role of large-scale solar farms. In Columbus, discussions recently took place before the Ohio Power Siting Board concerning a proposed 860-acre solar farm in Stark County. While a final decision on the project may not come for months, the case is emblematic of a larger struggle playing out across the state, with many communities seeking to halt or limit solar developments.
Several townships and municipalities, including Shalersville, Hiram, and Streetsboro in Portage County, have either revised their regulations or implemented moratoriums on new solar projects. The growing pushback has emerged in response to concerns over the impact these sprawling solar farms might have on the local landscape and economy.
In 2021, Ohio Senate Bill 52 granted county commissioners the authority to regulate or block new solar projects, a measure embraced by counties like Medina. Medina County Commissioner Steve Hambley explained that while they aren’t aiming for an outright ban, they want the option to reject projects before allowing any exceptions. “A 1,000-acre solar farm changes the look of a community,” Hambley said, noting that such developments may deter home builders from investing in the area.
Despite the resistance from some regions, others are embracing solar power. Kent State University, for instance, has been a strong proponent of solar energy since 2012. Solar panels on the main campus fieldhouse have saved on energy costs, leading to the expansion of similar projects across six of their regional campuses. Doug Pearson, Kent State’s associate VP of facilities and operations, highlighted the financial benefits, explaining that the university buys energy from solar providers at a rate 2 cents cheaper than the grid. The university plans to add more panels by December.
As Ohio continues to balance renewable energy needs with local concerns, the debate over solar farms is only expected to intensify. Whether communities will favor the economic and environmental benefits or resist change remains to be seen.