This was probably predictable.
In recent months officials in Lake Alfred and Bartow put the skids on plans for solar energy farms within their jurisdictions.
In both cases the local officials—absence any evidence—said they were hesitant to allow solar farms where Tampa Electric proposed them because it could affect the value of nearby residential developments.
Now this solar-as-threat-to-home-values sentiment has crept into a rural area in southwest Polk.
Just before TECO was planning to hold a groundbreaking ceremony featuring local dignitaries for its planned Payne Creek solar farm near Streamsong Resort, area residents began receiving anti-solar farm literature and some “Stop The Solar” yard signs were popping up in the area.
In the meantime, the groundbreaking was put off until next fall. The official reason was scheduling conflicts.
TECO officials say they are still planning the project, which is under review by Polk’s planning staff.
In the meantime, county officials are working on a response to the anti-solar campaign.