Solar farms
Veronica Stevenson, Springfield Township
Inherently beneficial two words you will be hearing in defense of “solar farms.” This infers that placing solar panels on many acres of open farmland will be beneficial for the public good because of production of “green energy.”
While solar power may be beneficial, it should also be proven that there are no alternative sites for solar panel placements available, such as former industrial sites, landfills, and rooftops.
While there is a concern for global warming, there is also a concern for providing food for future generations as the world population increases. Solar panels will not feed the people! And since we don’t farm on rooftops and abandoned industrial complexes, alternative acceptable sites are readily available!
Finding an alternate location for solar farms, therefore, is not a “hardship,” and the hardship requirement is usually the primary reason for allowing a zoning change or variance.
We must make every effort to preserve our farmland. Make your voices heard! Contact your elected representatives and express your concerns!