Soil vs. Solar: A Clash of the Yolo Gods

Yolo County is defined by its agriculture, which is why a push for solar in Davis has emerged as a source of disagreement in the region.

The city, as well as some prominent developers, are interested in seeing solar projects built along Interstate 80 east of Davis, according to the Sacramento Bee. But the county says that all deities in the county, including solar, should ultimately bow down to agriculture. 

In other words, anything that may hinder ag production (like solar panels) should be done in moderation. 

Yolo County is drafting an ordinance that would place limitations on solar and require applicants to prove that there is no non-prime ag land nearby. It would be the most detailed solar ordinance in the state, according to the Bee. 

Among those who disagree with the ordinance are the solar companies, the city of Davis and a group that includes developers Angelo K. Tsakopoulos and Phil Angelides. They have been approached about producing power for PG&E on rice land south of I-80 and east of Davis. 

Read about the proposed 80-megawatt facility, which would power 25,000 homes, on the Sacramento Bee.