Aligning Renewable Energy Goals with Rural Land Use: Educational Needs for Solar Development Contracts in New York and Maryland

Abstract

The rapid expansion of utility-scale solar projects in the U.S. brings opportunities and challenges to rural communities, affecting land use and agricultural practices. This growth, fueled by falling costs and supportive government policies, prompts states to diversify their energy portfolios with more renewables, creating tension over agricultural land use for solar development. Maryland and New York’s ambitious renewable energy targets highlight the urgency of a nuanced understanding of these issues. Our research emphasizes the importance of spatially informed decision-making at the individual landowner level to effectively address potential zoning and land-use conflicts. Preliminary findings suggest a significant need for educational resources that help landowners navigate negotiations and mitigate agricultural impacts. Additionally, our work identifies a gap in the knowledge base of rural attorneys, who require more comprehensive information to support landowners in the complex realm of solar energy contracts. By focusing on the specific needs of rural communities, our study aims to promote equitable large-scale, ground-mounted solar development. This involves shaping policy interventions and offering targeted educational resources to ensure solar expansion meets clean energy goals while respecting rural land-use realities.