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Dodge County Board adopts new solar energy conversion regulations
Summary
The Dodge County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted Article 25, Section 23 establishing Solar Energy Conversion Systems regulations after a public hearing where the Planning Commission and local stakeholders, including the Greater Fremont Development Council and OPPD, voiced support.
The Dodge County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted Article 25, Section 23 — Supplemental Regulations for Solar Energy Conversion Systems — at its June 25 meeting following a public hearing and Planning Commission recommendation.
Zoning Administrator Jean Andrews told the board that the Planning Commission largely accepted the proposed regulations and that many members had attended a University of Nebraska program on solar farms. Jessica Colterman of the Greater Fremont Development Council spoke in favor, saying the council reviewed the regulations and found them “fair and reasonable” and highlighted advantages of utility‑scale solar, including low maintenance and an ability to be removed if obsolete. Colterman also said solar “produce[s] 100 to 200 times more energy per acre than corn that is used to produce ethanol.”
Dustin Marvel, government community relations manager for Omaha Public Power District (OPPD), thanked Ms. Andrews and the Planning Commission for collaborating on the rules and described the regulations as reasonable protections for participating and non‑participating landowners. When asked about longevity, Marvel said utility‑scale solar farms typically have a life expectancy of 25 to 35 years and may be repowered if a landowner invests in upgrades.
Supervisor Strand noted the issue can be controversial and said he hoped the regulations include flexibility and adaptability. Chairman Missel thanked OPPD for its input and Supervisor Backens asked about life expectancy, prompting Marvel’s reply about 25–35 years and the potential for repowering. With no further testimony, Chairman Missel closed the hearing and the Board adopted Article 25; Supervisor Tawney read the resolution for the record.
The adopted regulations address utility and community solar at both residential and larger scales, and incorporate input from the Planning Commission and local utility expertise. The County did not specify implementation timelines or detailed permitting fees during the hearing; those procedural steps will be handled through the county’s zoning and permitting process.
