Derry Township sets public hearing for proposed solar farm
The Derry Township supervisors have set a hearing Tuesday to accept public comment about a solar farm proposed just north of New Alexandria.
The hearing is set for 5:30 p.m. at the municipal building, 5321 Route 982. It will follow the supervisors’ regular 5 p.m. voting meeting.
A neighbor has started an online petition opposing the Weimer Solar Farm that is proposed on Newhouse Road. The Change.org petition had garnered close to 140 signatures as of Friday afternoon.
The petition cites concerns about the loss of farmland and potential negative impact on community aesthetics, surrounding property values, wildlife and other environmental resources — including nearby Loyalhanna Creek.
TribLive is awaiting a response to a Right-to-Know request submitted to the township Wednesday, seeking details and a site plan of the solar farm contained in a permit application received by the municipality.
Derry Township lacks zoning regulations. But in April 2024, the township supervisors passed an ordinance setting up guidelines for solar farms and a related permit application process.
The ordinance requires a solar farm be set back at least 100 feet from adjoining properties. It must comply with Uniform Construction Code standards and must be surrounded by fencing with signs warning of electric voltage levels at the site.
Any power lines at the site are to be placed underground “to the maximum extent practicable.”
The solar array must not directly glare onto neighboring properties or roads, and must use solar panels that are coated with anti-reflective film.
The array developer is expected to create an emergency response plan for the site and to have related training with local emergency services.
The solar farm would be considered discontinued or abandoned if it produces no electricity for six continuous months. The operator then would have six months to dismantle and remove the array components.
If the supervisors decide to deny the required permit for the solar farm, the applicant would have 30 days to file an appeal in Westmoreland County Court.
Jeff Himler is a TribLive reporter covering Greater Latrobe, Ligonier Valley, Mt. Pleasant Area and Derry Area school districts and their communities. He also reports on transportation issues. A journalist for more than three decades, he enjoys delving into local history. He can be reached at jhimler@triblive.com.
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