Lexington Eyes Solar Energy Potential on Closed Landfill Amid Controversy Over Agricultural Land Use

Lexington is exploring the potential to establish a large solar operation on a closed landfill site located at Haley Pike in far eastern Fayette County. Mayor Linda Gorton announced that city staff have initiated an internal task force aimed at expanding solar energy initiatives within the region. This site was the city’s primary landfill until its closure in 2011.

Mayor Gorton noted, “We’re investigating the idea, and so far it’s promising.” The proposed solar operation comes amid an ongoing debate regarding the placement of solar farms in the county. Two energy companies have submitted plans for large-scale solar installations on agricultural land, a move that has faced opposition from Gorton and others.

The concept of utilizing closed landfills for solar energy projects is not new; cities across the United States have successfully implemented similar measures. However, the plan to convert the Haley Pike landfill would necessitate approval from multiple state agencies.

Currently, there is a proposal before the Kentucky Public Service Commission from the East Kentucky Power Cooperative (EKPC) to establish an industrial solar farm on over 380 acres of farmland in eastern Fayette County, named Bluegrass Plains. This proposed site is conveniently adjacent to an existing power cooperative substation, with an additional potential site proposed by Tennessee-based Silicon Ranch, which seeks a zoning amendment to permit solar farms on 800 acres of farmland under specific conditions. The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council is expected to make a final decision on this zoning amendment after a previous rejection by the Urban County Planning Commission in September.

In October, Gorton expressed her opposition to EKPC’s proposal at a public service commission hearing, emphasizing her stance against converting farmland for solar use. She stated, “If we find that solar will work on our landfill, it would be a great step forward for sustainable energy in Lexington.”

Presently, Lexington operates two solar programs aimed at promoting renewable energy. The city has been actively installing solar panels on its government facilities and incorporating solar designs into new construction projects. Furthermore, the two-year-old program, Solarize Lexington, created by former Vice Mayor Steve Kay, has assisted local homeowners, small businesses, non-profits, and places of worship in reducing electricity costs through solar adoption.

Additionally, Lexington aims to achieve SolSmart accreditation, which assesses cities and local governments based on their solar energy policies. Gorton and other officials acknowledge the growing importance of sustainable energy sources for public health and business attraction in the economic development landscape.

“Sustainable energy options are important to the health of our residents, and increasingly important to attracting businesses and growing our economy,” Gorton affirmed.