Blackford County Resident Challenges Lake Trout Solar Compliance, Calls for Moratorium

From the Blackford County Commissioner meeting on May 18, 2026

A resident challenged the Blackford County Commissioners during public comment over the Lake Trout Solar Project and called for a moratorium on solar and wind development while the Area Plan Commission works on a solar ordinance.

The resident told commissioners that Jay, Delaware, Grant, and Huntington counties have all enacted moratoriums on solar and wind projects while developing their own ordinances. She noted Wells County banned wind energy in 2012 and has a 1,500-foot solar setback. She asked why Blackford County has not taken similar action.

She also raised questions about whether the Lake Trout Solar Project — a 245-megawatt facility being developed by EDF Renewables and Geenex Solar for acquisition by Indiana Michigan Power for $552 million — has exceeded the timeline set by its Board of Zoning Appeals variance. She alleged no construction permit was issued before the deadline.

Commissioner Lancaster said he would take the questions to the Area Plan Commission director and the county attorney. The resident pushed for a response at the next meeting in roughly two weeks, but Lancaster could not guarantee a timeline.

Source: YouTube transcript — Blackford County - County Commissioner Meeting - May 18, 2026

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.