BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—As Crawford County Commissioners prepare for a special hearing on Friday, June 6, to consider a county-wide ban on solar development, representatives from Wombat Solar are working to dispel common myths surrounding utility-scale solar projects.
Wes Smith, Director of Development, and Leah Cordy, Director of Community Relations for Wombat Solar, emphasized their local roots and commitment to the community. Cordy, who grew up a county over, stated, “We know the area, we love this area. It’s very important to us, and ultimately, we don’t develop a project if there are not landowners that are willing to be a part of the project.”
One frequent concern addressed by Wombat Solar is the impact on farmland. Smith explained that solar farms utilize steel piles driven into the ground, allowing the soil to rest and recover nutrients over the project’s lifetime. Cordy added that “agrivoltaics,” or the dual use of land for both solar and agriculture, is becoming more common, allowing for activities like sheep grazing or pollinator habitats under panels. She also noted that income from solar leases can help farm families maintain their operations.
Regarding property values, Cordy cited school quality as the primary driver, stating that solar projects bring significant economic development. Smith reinforced this, mentioning studies showing no significant negative impact on property values from utility-scale solar farms.
The company also clarified decommissioning responsibilities. The Ohio Power Siting Board requires a third-party decommissioning bond, reappraised every five years, to ensure all equipment is removed at the project’s end, with no cost to landowners or taxpayers.
Addressing environmental and health concerns, Cordy stated that solar panels are sealed units made primarily of glass, silicone, and metal, containing no liquid chemicals. She debunked the myth of chemical leakage, even in extreme weather events. Smith added that the Ohio Department of Health has found no harmful chemicals or health concerns related to solar projects.
On the matter of noise, Cordy described solar projects as “the quiet neighbor,” explaining that the only sounds come from inverters or transformers, which produce a low hum comparable to a refrigerator or a quiet library. Smith noted that projects are engineered with setbacks and central placement of inverters to minimize sound impact, adhering to Ohio Power Siting Board decibel standards. Construction, however, will generate temporary noise and traffic.
When asked about accusations of being an outside entity pushing a project, Cordy reiterated their local ties and the voluntary participation of landowners. Smith emphasized Wombat Solar’s commitment to being a “good neighbor” and enriching the community.
The Wombat Solar representatives also highlighted the benefits for industrial development, stating that many businesses seek areas with renewable energy sources. They countered the idea that solar deters industry, asserting that it makes an area more attractive by providing readily available energy.
Concerns about grid reliability were also addressed. Smith explained that every solar project must undergo review by PJM, the grid operator for Ohio and parts of the East Coast and Midwest, ensuring upgrades are paid for by developers to increase grid reliability. Cordy stressed that solar developers view renewable energy as part of a comprehensive solution alongside natural gas and nuclear power, not as the sole answer.
For those concerned about wildlife and the environment, Smith explained that Ohio mandates wildlife fencing allowing ground mammals passage, and requires pollinator habitats within projects. Threatened and endangered species studies are conducted to avoid impacting migratory paths or critical habitats.
Looking ahead to the June 6 hearing, Wombat Solar expressed their intent to present their case and, should a county-wide ban pass, pursue a referendum to place the decision on the November ballot. Cordy said they hope commissioners would at least allow township trustees to decide for their own townships.
Smith and Cordy affirmed their commitment to staying in the community, regardless of the hearing’s outcome. They noted their ongoing Wombat Solar grant program for nonprofits and organizations and plans for a future endowment with the Community Foundation.
Wombat Solar encourages supporters to sign letters of support at wombatsolarproject.com and attend the June 6 hearing. For those seeking more information or wishing to voice concerns, they encourage direct contact through their website, which provides contact details and information about office hours at their downtown office.