Date Available
5-28-2025
Year of Publication
2025
Document Type
Graduate Capstone Project
Degree Name
Master of Public Administration
College
Graduate School
Department/School/Program
Public Administration
Faculty
Dr. Caroline Weber
Committee Member
Dr. J.S. Butler
Faculty
Dr. Hope Harvey
Abstract
The transition to renewable energy is a critical policy priority for Lexington-Fayette County, Kentucky, as the city aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. However, expanding solar energy presents a complex challenge: increasing renewable energy capacity while preserving the county’s prime agricultural land. This capstone examines how community solar programs in Virginia, Maryland, and New Jersey can inform the development of a sustainable and equitable solar initiative in Lexington.
Using a comparative program analysis of three state-level community solar models, the research evaluates policies on site selection, financial incentives, equity measures, regulatory enforcement, and program implementation. Findings indicate that New Jersey’s strict farmland protection policies, Maryland’s incentive-driven strategy, and Virginia’s evolving shared solar framework each offer valuable lessons for Lexington-Fayette County. The analysis highlights the importance of establishing clear site selection criteria, designing financial models that ensure both affordability and project sustainability, and embedding strong equity provisions to guarantee participation from low-to-moderate-income (LMI) households. It also underscores the role of monitoring, performance tracking, and community engagement in building public trust and driving participation.
This capstone recommends that Lexington-Fayette County adopt a data-informed, enforceable regulatory framework that prioritizes solar development on urban and industrial land while safeguarding agricultural resources. By integrating policy insights from other states, Lexington-Fayette County can develop a community solar program that is financially viable, environmentally responsible, and socially equitable—ensuring long-term success in its renewable energy transition.
Recommended Citation
Kokkonen, Benjamin; Stone, Nelson; and Tri Saputro, Widodo, "Comparative Analysis of Community Solar Energy Programs for Developing Sustainable Solar Initiatives in Lexington-Fayette County, Kentucky" (2025). MPA/MPP/MPFM Capstone Projects. 455.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/mpampp_etds/455
