Preston Community Energy Initiative seeks approval for 2MW solar facility in Maryland

The Caroline County Board of Zoning Appeals convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss a significant application for a special use permit submitted by Preston Community Energy Initiative LLC. The proposal seeks to establish a 2 megawatt commercial community-scale solar energy facility on a 12.5-acre site located at 22945 Dover Bridge Road, Preston, Maryland.

The meeting began with a presentation of the application, which included a detailed staff report and various exhibits, such as site plans and a decommissioning plan. The facility is designed to be compliant with local zoning regulations and will be situated within an industrial zone, ensuring it meets the necessary criteria for special use exceptions.

Ted Hastings, representing the applicant, outlined the project's features, including a single-axis solar tracker system that will be set back 850 feet from the road and 700 feet from the nearest dwelling. The facility will be surrounded by a 30-foot wide buffer of evergreen trees and shrubs, along with a 7-foot tall chain-link fence to minimize visual impact and enhance safety.

Key points discussed included the project's adherence to safety standards, noise levels, and environmental considerations. The facility is expected to operate with minimal traffic, requiring only 10 to 12 maintenance visits per year. The solar panels will be designed to minimize glare and will not pose any hazards to public health or safety.

Community engagement was also a focal point of the discussion. The applicant conducted outreach efforts, including a community meeting with nearby residents, to address concerns and provide information about the benefits of solar energy. The project aims to support local energy needs while offering guaranteed savings on electric bills for participants, particularly low and moderate-income households.

The board's decision on the special use permit will be crucial for the project's advancement, as it must also secure major site plan approval from the planning commission. If approved, the facility is projected to begin construction in late 2025, with an estimated operational lifespan of 40 years.

Overall, the proposed solar energy facility represents a significant step towards sustainable energy development in Caroline County, aligning with state initiatives to expand community solar programs and enhance local energy resources.