KENNEBEC JOURNAL • September 8, 2022
Thousands of solar panels that state officials say will bring benefits to taxpayers and the environment are being installed at two exits off Interstate 95 in Augusta even though the projects did not — and will not — undergo review by the Augusta Planning Board and will not be required to comply with city standards for solar installations. State officials said the two planned solar farms in the grassy middle areas of exits 109 and 112 do not require local review or approval because they are within the right of way of Interstate 95. City officials say they are concerned about the aesthetics of solar panels in prominent locations that state officials say will save the state money and reduce carbon emissions.