Residents and developers clash as Delaware County hears extensive public comment on proposed solar ordinance

Delaware County Commissioners heard more than an hour of public comment Sept. 2 on a proposed county solar ordinance that would sharply restrict locations and set new requirements for utility-scale photovoltaic projects.

The meeting drew farmers, developers, union representatives and dozens of residents from townships proposed for solar arrays. Speakers split broadly into two camps: those urging that the county permit utility-scale solar to preserve farmers' contractual rights and attract investment, and neighbors arguing that large photovoltaic farms harm farmland, raise local traffic and drainage risks and depress nearby property values.

Supporters, including representatives of local construction trades and several residents, said solar projects create construction jobs, add to the tax base and offer farmers alternative income. Tim Hines of the Carpenters Union…