Proposed Silicon Ranch solar farm sparks questions, discussion at community dinner

Residents gathered this week for a community dinner and question-and-answer session hosted by Silicon Ranch. Company representatives discussed plans for a proposed solar farm near Fayette and answered concerns ranging from taxes and land use to environmental impact and long-term maintenance. The meeting reflected growing public interest in a project that could bring a new form of economic development to Fayette County while also changing the landscape of a longtime family property east of town. Representatives Tanner Scott and Aaron Fagley said the company plans to develop an approximately 8.4-megawatt solar facility on about 134 acres near the Fayette Shopping Center and south of the airport. According to company officials, the project would generate enough electricity to power approximately 1,300 homes, or roughly half the city of Fayette.