PORTSMOUTH, R.I. (AP) – A judge has shut down plans for a 29-acre solar farm in Rhode Island.
The Providence Journal reported Monday the judge has reversed a zoning board’s approval of the Portsmouth Solar proposal in Portsmouth.
The board previously found that the solar farm represented a public utility. Judge Brian Van Couyghen says the farm instead represents a manufacturing facility because it transforms sunlight into electricity.
Manufacturing is not allowed in residential zones under the current ordinance.
A lawyer for the couple that challenged the zoning board’s approval says they are happy with the judge’s ruling, as they didn’t want thousands of solar panels near their home.
A lawyer with Portsmouth Solar could not be reached for comment.
The judge’s ruling is still under review by the town.
