Siting Library

The clean energy industry has successfully delivered multiple benefits to rural communities. Wind and solar development have generated clean energy, provided a new source of tax revenue to counties, brought additional income to landowners who host projects, and created new jobs and career opportunities in rural areas. As the renewable energy industry continues to grow, local officials are often tasked with determining the siting and zoning standards necessary to address the concerns of local residents. 

Similarly, the growth of renewables has required upgrades to the electric grid and expansion of the transmission network to connect generation to consumers. The key to widespread and successful adoption of renewable energy continues to be responsible siting and robust stakeholder engagement. To assist stakeholders in conversations about the siting and development of renewables and electric transmission, the Center has created resources that address specific issues often raised during the development process.

See our Utility-Scale Energy Siting Recommendations for a summary of all the resources in our siting library, as well as state-level data on various setback distances.