The Wabash County Commissioners have approved an application from RWE Energy to establish a large solar farm in rural Wabash County.
For the second consecutive Monday, opponents filled the Wabash County Courtroom during the commissioners’ regular meeting, expressing concerns about the loss of farmland, declining property values, impacts on wildlife, glare from solar panels, and long-term environmental consequences. Several nearby residents stated that the project would diminish their quality of life, while others called for the decision to be put to a public vote or for a moratorium to be enacted.
Representatives from RWE and its development partner, R3 Gateway, assured commissioners that the Friendsville Solar Project fully complies with the county’s solar ordinance adopted in 2023. The county’s independent consultant, Bellwether, confirmed that the application met all ordinance and state requirements. Project attorneys highlighted that state law mandates approval when an application satisfies local standards.
Developers also pointed to economic benefits, including road improvements, the creation of hundreds of construction and permanent jobs, and increased tax revenue. According to figures shared at the meeting, the project is expected to generate an average of over $1.7 million annually in new tax revenue, with significant benefits for local schools and other taxing districts.
Commissioners recognized the emotional and divisive nature of the decision, acknowledging the need to balance the concerns of neighboring residents with the rights of property owners. After extensive public input and discussion, the commissioners unanimously voted 3–0 to approve the application.
With this approval, the Friendsville Solar Project will proceed under the conditions set forth in the county’s solar ordinance.