To the Editor:

Many residents were concerned about the impact and size of some solar farms that have been installed across our town. A volunteer Solar By-Law Study Committee was formed to rewrite Section 590 of the Zoning By-Laws to explore a path to responsible development of large-scale solar projects that balances the rights of landowners to use their land while protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public

The Committee spent time researching and learning about other MA town by-laws. We worked to identify and spell out specific parameters for locating/siting, construction materials, landscaping and screening using native plant species, mitigating noise and glare, addressing potential water runoff and drainage, limiting earth removal, and other aspects of solar energy production that address public safety, while minimizing impacts on scenic, natural, and historic resources. The proposed bylaw discourages development in locations that result in significant loss of natural resources, and encourages rooftop siting, as well as encouraging development in locations in industrial and commercial districts, or on vacant, previously disturbed land. 

This bylaw provides a framework for responsible development of energy resources that are sorely needed to wean our nation off fossil fuels. The pain we’re all experiencing at the pump and in home heating fuel is recent evidence that we must look at alternative energy resources. To read the bylaw go to https://www.wareham.ma.us/sites/g/files/vyhlif5146/f/pages/solar_energy_generation_facilities_warrant_article_2022-03-09.pdf

Please vote YES at Special Town Meeting on 4/25/22.

Committee members: Nancy McHale, Jim Eacobacci, Ronald Besse, Jacqui Nichols, Carl Schultz, and Denise Wolk. Advisor: Ken Buckland