Solar Energy Systems – Call for public comments: The Dorchester County Department of Planning and Zoning has created a website mailbox for all Dorchester residents to drop off their comments about the installation of solar panels throughout the County.  The address is zoninginbox@docogonet.com

Background:

• Maryland has adopted a State legislation in 2006, later amended in 2019 (SB 516), whereas 50% of the energy produced is mandated to originate from renewable sources by 2030, including 14.5% coming from solar energy
• 23,000 acres of additional land-based solar panels is estimated to be needed in the State to meet that requirement
• There has been a proliferation of utility grade solar applications in the County over the last several yea​rs
• There is growing concern amongst County citizens and County officials that the proliferation of land-based solar installations is having a negative impact on its rural landscape, agricultural resources as well as historic and cultural resources
• In reaction to the above, a dedicated section of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan is being created to address analysis of the current conditions, and strategies for the development of future solar applications

We ask that you format your comments and input according to the topics discussed at the 2 work sessions with Council and at the public meeting of March 17, 2021.

The main topics are:

• The size of each solar projects – what feels right … what is too big ?
• The visibility of the solar projects

• • Where should they be located ?
  • How far should the solar projects be from residential neighborhoods, town boundaries, historic sites (size of setbacks) ?
  • How deep and how tall should the vegetation screen around the projects be ?
  • Should the security fence be mandated to feature a privacy screen ?

Thank you.