AMANDA TOWNSHIP — A packed auditorium at Amanda-Clearcreek High School on Aug. 11 reflected just how divisive Geronimo Power’s proposed Carnation Solar project has become for the community.
During the Ohio Power Siting Board’s public hearing, supporters and opponents delivered passionate testimony about the plan to construct a utility-scale solar farm on 1,029 acres within a 1,650-acre project area near Cedar Hill Road, Ridge Road, Reigle Road and Amanda-Northern Road.
The proposal includes transmission lines, access roads, underground and overhead electric collection lines, inverters, transformers, a collection substation and a seven-foot perimeter fence with gated entrances.
Resident Brian Compton, a vocal opponent, said the project would be an “industrial blight” on the rural landscape.
“This project threatens not only my property, but also the integrity of our entire community,” Compton told the board. “The siting of a utility-scale solar farm adjacent to residential properties like mine would unfairly devalue our land… it delivers an industrial blight on what was once a tranquil and scenic landscape.”
Others, voiced strong support for the solar farm, citing economic and agricultural benefits.
“This solar farm lets us diversify, offering financial stability to keep farming and pass our land to our kids,” Rittinger said. “It’s about securing our future and energy security… I don’t think that is selfish.”
Supporters also pointed to potential job creation and increased tax revenue, while opponents raised concerns about property values and preserving the rural character of the area.
Last month, the Fairfield County commissioners voted to oppose the Carnation project and previously enacted a county-wide ban on new solar developments. However, the Carnation plan and the Eastern Cottontail project in Walnut Township were grandfathered into the state siting process.
The Ohio Power Siting Board will now weigh the testimony and evidence before making its final decision.
