Iola Council approves rules for local solar, wind power users

Iola City Council members established parameters for electric customers to install their own solar, wind or other renewable energy sources. The codes are in line with state law, officials noted.

By TIM STAUFFER, REGISTER MANAGING EDITOR

September 27, 2023 - 3:37 PM

Steve Strickler, owner of Strickler’s Dairy since 1978, called his decision to invest in solar panels, featured above, a “no brainer” for his dairy operation. “They require almost no maintenance; we wash them off about once a year, and that’s it.” Strickler took advantage of federal funding to install the panels, which meant he paid a third, the government paid a third, and the remaining third was a tax credit. Solar doesn’t come close to covering the dairy farm’s energy consumption, he said, “but it makes a huge difference on our peak usage days.” Photo by Tim Stauffer / Iola Register

The Iola City Council approved changes Monday to its municipal code for electric customers who take advantage of parallel generation, like solar or wind power. Moving forward, utility customers will be limited to installing systems that generate no more than 4% over their peak monthly consumption. For energy delivered to the City of Iola’s grid, customers will be credited on a yearly basis.

The ordinance falls in line with Kansas statutes.

The restrictions apply to all electric customers, not just residences.

Those interested in installing solar or wind energy will also now have to file an application with the City of Iola along with a base fee of $100. Applications will be reviewed and a decision issued within 30 days, and if a denial is issued applicants may appeal through the zoning appeals board.

Any wind energy system will now have to be located a minimum of 50 feet from any property line and a minimum of 100% of the tower height plus 100% of the tutor diameter from any overhead power lines. The city is exempt from the overhead power lines limit.

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