By JIM BUTLER

The parish has set the rules for any future solar farm development.

Acting on recommendations from the Area Planning Commission police jurors this month unanimously adopted guidelines for such a renewable energy project. Juror Randy Wiggins was absent.

Louisiana is currently experiencing a surge of investment in such construction.

The ordinance sets minimum standards for solar projects that are neither residential nor single business-driven.

Not less than 20 acres are required for a proposed site. Rotating panels are limited to height of 16 feet; non-rotating to 18 feet.

Setback of at least 100 feet from any public roads or neighboring property will be required, with minimum fencing of 8 feet in height.

Provisions are also made for required signage, noise abatement and visual concealment barriers.

The permitting process requires estimates of economic, wildlife and environmental impacts, as well as drainage, public safety, sound and aviation analysis.

A non-refundable review fee of $10,000 is due on application. The permit fee is set at 1% of total construction cost, payable prior to the permit issuance.

That cost depends on size of the farm. Industry publications estimate cost at $500,000 to $1,000,000 per megawatt of generation capability.

The Planning Commission is charged with recommending approval or rejection of a permit request.