Sedgwick County Commissioners heard an update Wednesday on the process of adopting regulations governing large-scale solar energy projects, and they voted to delay action until early August.
The county has hired a consulting team with expertise on solar power issues to work with staff and gather insights and perspectives on proposed changes to the Wichita-Sedgwick County Unified Zoning Code. Justin Constantino with the Metropolitan Area Planning Department said a draft document is expected from the Berkley Group later this month or in July.
Commissioners approved a moratorium on utility or commercial solar projects until September 13th. Constantino said it’s expected that staff will have recommendations for the county commission before that time. The commissioners voted to defer action until their August 7th meeting.
County officials have been looking at definitions, standards and land use requirements for stand-alone commercial solar systems. This does not affect home solar projects or accessory projects that are part of a larger development, such as a solar project for a school or public facility.
Commissioner Jim Howell said the process is almost complete, and it’s the smart thing to do to allow the consultants to complete their work and present their recommendations.
