Iowa Senate Bill SSB1077

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/23
• Refer: 1/24/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to commercially owned solar panel field installation on agricultural land.

Impact

If enacted, SSB1077 will modify existing agricultural and zoning regulations within the state, introducing restrictions on where solar panel fields can be established. Specifically, the bill mandates that these fields be installed at least 150 feet away from adjacent properties and 1,200 feet from residential buildings or livestock facilities. This requirement aims to mitigate potential conflicts between agricultural operations and solar energy development, promoting a balance between energy needs and agricultural practices.

Summary

Senate Study Bill 1077 addresses the installation of commercially owned solar panel fields on agricultural land in Iowa. It outlines the definitions pertinent to the bill, specifying what constitutes agricultural land and a commercially owned solar panel field. The bill establishes clear parameters regarding the installation distances required to ensure proper spacing from adjacent landowners, residences, or livestock facilities.

Contention

While the bill is intended to safeguard agricultural interests, it also raises concerns about the future availability of land for renewable energy projects. Supporters of solar energy argue that the distance requirements may hinder the growth of solar panel installations, particularly in rural areas where land use is often closely tied to agricultural activities. Critics of the bill may perceive it as a legislative impediment to expanding renewable energy sources, which could conflict with state-wide goals for increasing sustainability and green energy initiatives.