Shawnee County reviews zoning regulations for solar panels and industrial uses

The Shawnee County Planning Commission convened on March 10, 2025, to discuss several key topics related to zoning regulations and solar energy installations. A significant focus of the meeting was the ongoing conversation about the use of solar panels in both residential and industrial zones.

Commission members clarified that individuals and businesses are permitted to install solar panels on their properties without restrictions, as these installations are not included in the current moratorium on new developments. This means that homeowners and industrial entities can utilize building permits to support their energy needs through solar energy. For instance, large companies like Walmart and Mars can install solar panels to power their operations, provided the energy is used for their own consumption.

However, concerns were raised regarding net metering, which allows solar panel owners to sell excess energy back to the grid. The commission acknowledged the challenges in monitoring these installations, particularly if businesses were to install more panels than necessary for their own use, potentially leading to unauthorized energy sales.

The discussion also touched on the zoning classifications I1 and I2, which govern industrial uses in Shawnee County. The commission noted that these zones allow a wide range of activities, including manufacturing and storage, while residential properties within these zones are generally grandfathered in. Any new residential construction in these areas is prohibited unless it meets specific caretaker provisions.

The commission is considering revising the zoning regulations to clarify the definitions of permitted, provisional, and conditional uses, aiming to streamline the approval process for businesses while ensuring compliance with local regulations.

As the meeting concluded, members expressed the need for further discussions on net metering and the implications of solar energy installations in the county. The commission plans to revisit these topics in future sessions, emphasizing the importance of balancing energy needs with regulatory oversight.