Fulton County Solar Farm Plans Major Expansion

Solar arrayPhoto byRaphael CruzonUnsplash

A developer responsible for Fulton County's biggest solar project with local approval is seeking to expand their capacity. The current 392 acre solar farm generate about 20 megawatts of power. The new proposal would add another site which would generate 79 megawatts of additional power. The state Office of Renewable Energy Siting has jurisdiction over any solar project 25 megawatts or larger. That would remove local control of approval.

The power company, National Grid, first has to review the connectivity potential for that location and amount of power. The state is providing incentives to renewable energy development, and hopes to make 70% of the electric grid renewably sourced.

Currently the largest state-regulated solar project in Fulton County is the 200-acre Close farm in Mayfield, which is planned to hold 40 megawatts. The new project proposed would nearly double that capacity.

Opponents of large solar projects say it spoils the view and takes up too much space.