Metro Lex News

Lexington is examining the potential of solar energy as a sustainable option for the city, according to Mayor Linda Gorton. An internal group is currently assessing how solar energy is being utilized by the city government and setting future priorities.

“We are excited about solar’s potential for our city, and want to understand best practices and next steps,” stated Gorton. The group began meeting last summer with an emphasis on enhancing the Empower Lexington plan, aimed at building a sustainable future.

One of the primary projects under consideration is a solar farm at the 600-plus acre Haley Pike Landfill. “We’re investigating the idea, and so far it’s promising,” said Gorton. She noted that using landfill sites requires state agency approval but emphasized its benefits over converting farmland into solar farms. “If we find that solar will work on our landfill, it would be a great step forward for sustainable energy in Lexington without the loss of prime farmland."

Gorton highlighted that utilizing landfill sites for solar farms is preferable to removing existing farmland from production—a proposal currently being reviewed by the Kentucky Public Service Commission.

The city also aims to achieve SolSmart accreditation, which recognizes local governments' efforts in promoting solar deployment. SolSmart provides designation levels based on cities' policies related to solar energy. “As cities compete for economic development opportunities, programs like this are critical to evaluating the progress we’ve already made, and offer guidance on where we can go next," explained Gorton.

Lexington has two ongoing solar initiatives: installing panels on government facilities and incorporating them into new construction projects; and Solarize Lexington, which assists homeowners, small businesses, non-profits, and places of worship in installing panels to reduce electricity costs.