URBANA, Ill. (WAND) - Solar farms are coming to Champaign County after the board voted to amend the county zoning ordinance.
The amendment will allow photovoltaic solar farms on certain agricultural properties, the News Gazette reports.
Photovoltaic solar energy is produced by cells that generate electricity when struck by light.
Solar farms will be allowed only in AG-1 and AG-2 agricultural zoning districts.
Developers have to get a special permit from the board.
Seven applications to build solar farms have already been submitted.
Some board members were concerned the farms could have a negative impact on property values.
However, Zoning Administrator John Hall said studies found solar farms have no significant effect them.
A solar farm public hearing is scheduled for Aug. 30.
