Residents voice concerns over proposed solar farm near homes on Rupert Road

The Iredell County Planning Board meeting on June 4, 2025, featured significant public concern regarding a proposed solar farm project. Residents voiced their apprehensions about the potential impact of the solar installation on their homes and the surrounding environment.

One resident, Karen Kilby, expressed strong doubts about the claims that solar panels have not sustained damage over the years. She highlighted the risks posed by falling trees and lightning, which she argued could lead to costly repairs and disruptions in power supply. Kilby urged the board to reconsider the project's proximity to residential areas, emphasizing her desire for the solar farm to be located further away from her home.

Another resident, Leanna Cisneros, who lives nearby, shared her family's love for the natural beauty of the area, including the wildlife they frequently observe. She described the community's appeal as a peaceful retreat from urban life, noting that the introduction of a solar farm could disrupt local habitats and diminish the quality of life for families in the vicinity.

The meeting underscored the community's concerns about environmental impacts and the preservation of their rural lifestyle. As discussions continue, the Planning Board will need to weigh these public sentiments against the potential benefits of renewable energy development in Iredell County.