FORWARD TWP — Forward Township’s board of supervisors has approved an ordinance intended to enact controls on the development of alternative energy facilities in the township.

This action, taken at the township’s monthly board of supervisors meeting on Monday night, Oct. 10, means alternative energy facilities like solar and wind farms will be considered commercial developments and subject to strict guidelines for their design, installation and — if necessary — decommissioning.

“Before, people could just put in a commercial solar complex,” said township Supervisor Mel Musulin. “Now, they have to go through a commercial review, which means our planning commission has to review it, and they have to meet standards.”

The ordinance, which amends chapter 16 of Forward Township’s code, was intended to be voted on during the Sept. 12 meeting, but it was tabled to seek feedback from public comment.

Among other requirements, principal solar energy systems — better known as “solar farms” — must be surrounded by a security fence at least 8 feet high and accessible through a road at least 25 feet wide. They must also not exceed 20 feet in height or produce noise any louder than 55 dB.

For wind energy facilities, turbines also must not exceed 55 dB of noise, and they must take any measure not to interfere with telecommunications signals and be painted a “non-obtrusive” color, such as white or gray.

Operators found guilty of violating the ordinance will be fined an amount up to $300.

The ordinance itself has gone through some slight alterations since it was first introduced in August.

“We changed some of the setback distances from the original proposal,” Musulin said. “We’ve increased some of the setback distances. That’s about it.”

Those who wish to read the full copy of the ordinance can do so by visiting Forward Township’s website at forwardtwpbutlerco.us, or going to Forward Township’s municipal building and requesting a copy during regular business hours.