Lexington, Kentucky, September 13, 2025
News Summary
The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council has unanimously voted to prohibit large-scale solar farms on agricultural land, finalizing a lengthy debate between preservationists and environmentalists. A work group will be established to further explore solar energy development options, aiming to balance agricultural needs with sustainable energy goals in Fayette County.
Lexington, Kentucky — Large-Scale Solar Farms Restricted on Farmland
The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council voted unanimously to approve a zone text amendment that regulates solar development across Fayette County. This decision prohibits large-scale solar farms on agricultural land, bringing to a close a year-long debate that divided opinions between agricultural preservationists and environmental advocates.
As part of the amendment, the council plans to form a work group that will include stakeholders from both the agricultural and environmental sectors. This group aims to address the complexities surrounding solar regulations and explore alternative options for solar energy development.
Details of the Amendment
The primary contention during the discussions revolved around whether solar farms should be allowed on farmland. Silicon Ranch, a Nashville-based solar company, had proposed a plan to establish an 800-acre solar farm in eastern Fayette County. However, arguments against this plan focused on the potential permanent damage to productive agricultural land.
Currently, Fayette County’s zoning regulations do not specify the areas where solar can be installed. The Urban County Planning Commission has previously permitted solar installations in various residential and business zones, demonstrating a lack of comprehensive guidelines. A vote to allow a limited amount of solar—specifically 2% on agricultural land—did not receive the necessary support; nonetheless, a separate motion established this cap to express the county’s preference to the Public Service Commission.
Oversight and Future Projects
Large-scale solar projects may be supervised by various state and local authorities. Interestingly, public utilities can bypass zoning changes for solar projects, indicating a separate set of regulatory guidelines. For instance, East Kentucky Power has secured approval to build a nearly 400-acre solar facility along Interstate 64, which is unrelated to the ongoing discussions concerning Silicon Ranch.
Additional discussions at the council have initiated considerations for solar development projects on other non-agricultural sites, such as the closed Haley Pike landfill.
Concerns and Controversies
Many are concerned about the current ambiguity in zoning laws, with experts claiming it leads to uncertainty regarding the future of farmland. The president of the Fayette County Farm Bureau has noted that while the organization supports solar energy, they prefer implementations on existing buildings and less critical land to protect agricultural operations.
On the other hand, environmental advocates argue that restricting solar energy could lead to more harmful developments in rural areas. During council discussions, fears were voiced about the potential decline in property values and the adverse environmental effects caused by large-scale solar facilities in sensitive locations.
Next Steps
The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council is set to hold a crucial vote on the solar zoning ordinance text amendment on September 11. A public hearing was recently conducted to amass feedback on the proposed zoning amendments affecting 31 out of Fayette County’s 42 municipalities. Over the past few years, the zoning board has encountered numerous petitions regarding solar farms, with varying outcomes shaping local development.
Concerns persist regarding the appropriate distance requirements for solar farms from property lines and the economic implications of establishing adequate setbacks, indicating that the discourse around solar energy continues to evolve.
FAQ
What did the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council decide regarding solar farms?
The Council approved a zone text amendment that prohibits large-scale solar farms on agricultural land.
Why was there a debate about solar farms on farmland?
The debate centered around the potential impact on productive agricultural land versus the need for solar energy development.
What is the role of Silicon Ranch in this issue?
Silicon Ranch initially proposed establishing an 800-acre solar farm in eastern Fayette County, which was a significant point of contention.
What future actions will the Council take regarding solar development?
A work group will be formed to include agricultural and environmental stakeholders to further discuss solar regulations.
Key Features of the Solar Farm Amendment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Amendment Approval | Prohibits large-scale solar farms on agricultural land |
| Work Group Formation | Includes agricultural and environmental stakeholders for further discussions |
| Silicon Ranch Proposal | Initial plan for an 800-acre solar farm in eastern Fayette County |
| Public Hearing | Recently conducted to collect citizen feedback on zoning amendments |
| Upcoming Vote | Scheduled for September 11 regarding the solar zoning ordinance |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lexington Council Approves Residential Parking Permit Amid Camel Club Dispute
University of Kentucky Governance Crisis: Collett Resigns
Lisa Higgins-Hord Appointed to Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council
Lexington Council Votes to Ban Large-Scale Solar Farms on Farmland
Lexington-Fayette County Moves to Update Solar Zoning Policies
Lexington Advocates for Solar Energy Development and Policy Changes
Lexington Planning Commission Recommends Ban on Solar Farms on Farmland
Lexington Explores Solar Energy at Capped Landfill
Lexington Mayor Raises Concerns Over Solar Farm Project
Lexington Mayor Gorton Presents Future Goals in State of the City
Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County Solar Farm News
- Lex18: Fayette Co. Farm Bureau Voices Opposition
- Spectrum News: LFUCG Deciding on Solar Zoning
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Solar Energy
- Google Search: Solar Development
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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