A proposed Beaver County solar farm in North Sewickley Township was denied a zoning application last Thursday.
The proposed farm would be built on roughly eighty acres of wooded area.
The company leasing the land, Penn Renewables, made its case in front of the zoning board and members of the public at the townships monthly. Penn Renewables partners with landowners and local communities to develop renewable energy projects that are environmentally friendly and safe.
According to a published news report, it had to show “minimal impact” to the community but neighbors argued it would have a major impact, citing concerns with flooding and property values. Others told the board this would be the first step in altering the rural lifestyle they’ve chosen as residents.
“They were out of variance with the zoning with the three lots,” board member Matt Kotuba said.
Grid-scale solar is an emerging market in Pennsylvania and Penn Renewables legal counsel has stated that they met the conditions and requirements of the ordinance and that they would appeal the decision.
According to PA.gov website, solar development within Pennsylvania must adhere to all applicable local and state laws and regulations. Townships and municipalities have autonomy in governing Subdivision and Land Use Development Ordinances (SALDO) and zoning and permitting requirements.
Keep OUT of our beautiful rural neighborhoods! That’s way too many trees to be mowed down, destroying wildlife habitat that’s irreplaceable!