Can Warren County sustain its clean environment and grow its economy?  Our future depends on doing both.

Warren County needs both economic and environmental sustainability to thrive. Solar advocates, including me, should learn from our recent setback, after the county commissioners decided against solar advancement.  Our attempt to show how expanding our solar footprint would increase the county’s ability to deliver safe, clean energy while also enticing new industries and jobs was unsuccessful. Yet, solar energy is far safer and much less expensive than fossil fuels and other sources of energy.

Warren County helped spark the environmental justice movement. Honoring that legacy means pursuing environmental sustainability and economic opportunities for rural residents and business owners, including farmers.  Concerns raised about the appearance, noise, and runoff of solar energy were valid. Stronger planning and environmental standards could have addressed these issues, and others, in the planning process. The county had made up its mind that it was not going to expand solar.

That is regrettable.

When Lake Gaston was built, some residents expressed concerns and opposition to the loss of farmland and shifts in local life. Today, the lake is widely seen as a natural, environmentally friendly source of renewable energy and an attractive place to live or visit. Taxes from the homeowners and businesses on and near the lake are a major economic asset for the county. 

In contrast, Warren County is often listed amongst the counties that have lower wages in North Carolina. When voting against the solar expansion, the Economic Development Commission dismissed the value of 200 well-paying construction jobs for local residents to build the solar plant. Their votes also passed on the potential to better attract additional businesses desiring clean, affordable energy. While there were different views on the $2 million offered by the solar company, it could have added value to our schools or helped to offset the debt incurred from the county’s Key Capital and Strategic Initiatives.

Environmental protection and economic growth are not opposing goals. With careful planning and collaboration, Warren County can achieve both. The citizens look forward to hearing about other environmentally safe, economic opportunities that the Economic Development Commission is pursuing to advance Warren County. 

EVA M. CLAYTON

Former Congresswoman (Retired)