Adams Township hosts public meeting to discuss solar panel fields

A local township is holding a public meeting Wednesday night to discuss a solar ordinance draft.

It’s looking for the public’s opinions on solar panels in the area.

Adams township already has a 774-acre solar field, located just outside of Portage.

Now the township is attempting to establish zoning regulations for solar energy development.

Adams township planning commission recommends establishment of regulations involving the placement and use of solar facilities in this ordinance.

It says accessory solar energy systems will be permitted as an accessory use in all zoning districts in the township.

This ordinance will cover areas of land used for a solar collection system which then are used to capture solar energy, convert it to electrical energy or thermal power, and supply electrical or thermal power for on-site use.

These can include free standing panels, roof mounted arrays or modules, or solar related equipment.

The ordinance requires solar panel usage for providing energy only to the property on which it is located and says that it should not cover more than 50-percent of the lot.

Again, this topic on the agenda at Wednesday’s meeting at 7:30 at the Adams Township Municipal Building