A solar education meeting will explain the technology, construction, regulations, and economics of the utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) systems that are increasing across North Carolina. In addition to providing an understanding of the development and operation of these solar electricity generating facilities, attendees will learn about the various impacts of these systems on the community and the environment. Specifically, an expert will address common questions about PV panel toxicity, EMF/radiation, economic impacts, system decommissioning, and more. An expert will also discuss the characteristics that make a site most suitable for solar and provide an overview of solar land leases. An opportunity for attendee questions and answers will be provided after a 50-minute presentation.
This event will be held at the Johnston County Agricultural Center Auditorium located at 2736 NC 210 Highway in Smithfield, NC on Wednesday, November 29th from 4:00-6:00 pm.
Steve Kalland, Executive Director of the NC Clean Energy Technology Center N.C. State University will be the speaker.
North Carolina is experiencing rapid growth in utility scale solar. The Solar Energy Industries Association ranked North Carolina number two in the U.S. for cumulative installed solar capacity in 2016. The objectives of the Johnston County meeting are to provide an educational forum and to answer questions about solar opportunities within the County. Topics of discussion will include solar basics, environmental health and safety issues, landowner considerations, land use and impacts, local regulatory topics, solar policy, local economic implications, and also non-utility scale solar topics (such as residential, commercial and community solar).
A wide-range of individuals and occupations are encouraged to attend the meeting including property owners, elected officials, local government staff, planning, permitting, and the general public.
For more information and to reserve a seat contact the Johnston County Extension Center at 919-989-5380.
