AMANDA TOWNSHIP, Ohio – July 9, 2025 — The Fairfield County Board of Commissioners has voted to oppose a proposed large-scale solar energy project in Amanda Township, marking a significant moment in the ongoing debate over solar development in the region. The vote, held on July 8, saw Commissioners Jeff Fix and Steve Davis voting against the Carnation Solar project, while Commissioner Dave Levacy abstained.
Despite the county’s formal opposition, the future of the project remains uncertain. The final decision will rest with the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB), the state agency responsible for approving large-scale energy projects.
The Carnation Solar project, spearheaded by National Grid Renewables, proposes a 142-megawatt solar facility that would cover approximately 1,700 acres in Amanda Township. While the county previously enacted a ban on new large solar developments, Carnation Solar and one other project were “grandfathered in” under previous regulations, allowing them to continue through the OPSB approval process.
Local opposition to the project has been vocal and organized. Protect Amanda Township, a grassroots group of concerned residents, praised the commissioners’ vote on Facebook, calling it a “unified opposition from our local government” and urging supporters to take the fight to the state level.
“We’ve been at it over 3 years, over $80K raised to support our group of concerned citizens,” the group posted. “NOW, we must bring it home!”
The organization is now encouraging residents to submit written comments to the OPSB over the next two weeks, expressing their opposition to the project and requesting its denial.
Supporters of the solar farm argue that it would bring economic investment and renewable energy jobs to the region, while opponents cite concerns about environmental impacts, land use, and the effect on the rural character of Amanda Township.
The OPSB is currently reviewing Case #24-0881-EL-BGN, and no final decision has been announced.
How to Submit Public Comment to OPSB:
- By Email: [email protected]
Subject/Body: Carnation Solar – Case #24-0881-EL-BGN – State your opposition and request denial. - By Mail:
Ohio Power Siting Board
180 E. Broad Street
Columbus, OH 43215
Include case number and your statement
