The Navy’s plan to develop a renewable energy project at the former Naval Academy Dairy Farm in Gambrills isn’t the only energy project in Maryland generating controversy.
While the Navy is just beginning the process of seeking renewable energy ideas, such as solar panels, for the 857-acre dairy farm in an effort to meet federally mandated carbon-free electricity goals, other energy projects across the state are prompting outcry.
The Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project, a $424 million upgrade to the region’s energy grid, would install a 500,000-volt transmission line through 70 miles of largely rural areas of Baltimore, Carroll and Frederick counties.
In Carroll County, six applications for solar energy projects on agricultural-zoned land are being considered, as well.
Though each project has different goals and timelines, similar criticisms are emerging. Concerns about changing rural landscapes, environmental risks and historic preservation are being echoed across each area, and in Anne Arundel County, what such a project would look like remains to be seen — but the prospect is worrisome to many.
“You don’t have much farmland in Anne Arundel County anymore, and you’re basically pushing it out,” said Ed McCabe, a leader with Anne Arundel County 4-H, following a community meeting on the Navy’s plan. “I don’t think it’s appropriate to put solar over agricultural land, not just here, but anywhere.”
More than 100 people attended the…
