Solar Development Projects 101 Utility-Scale Solar – Frequently Asked Questions Missouri
- kpaffrath
- a few seconds ago
- 3 min read
Purpose
Utility-scale solar projects are being proposed across Missouri. This document provides fact-based answers to common questions County Commissions and residents ask regarding large-scale solar developments, including land use, utilities, taxes, and legislation.
What is utility-scale solar?
Utility-scale solar projects are large facilities that generate electricity for sale to the grid or directly to large customers. These projects typically range from 5 MW to several hundred megawatts and are distinct from rooftop or small net-metered systems.
How much land does a large solar project require?
A common planning estimate is approximately 5–10 acres per megawatt (MW), depending on technology, layout, and terrain. For example, a 100 MW project may require 500–1,000 acres, including setbacks, buffers, and infrastructure.
How much water do utility-scale solar projects use?
Operational water use is generally low. Solar panels do not require continuous cooling. Water use is primarily limited to construction dust control and occasional panel washing.
Will solar projects affect electric rates or reliability?
Utility-scale solar projects must complete regional grid interconnection studies through MISO or SPP. Any required transmission or substation upgrades are identified through this process and are key drivers of project timelines and costs.
How long do large solar projects take to develop?
Development timelines typically range from 18–36 months or longer, depending on interconnection studies, land assembly, permitting, environmental reviews, and construction schedules.
What jobs and economic impacts do solar projects create?
Solar projects generate significant construction employment over 12–24 months. Long-term operations staffing is modest, but projects provide land lease income, local spending, and tax revenue over time.
Common local concerns and mitigation
Common topics include setbacks, glare, drainage, property values, vegetation management, fencing, and road use. These are typically addressed through site design, permit conditions, and local agreements.
What happens at the end of a solar project’s life?
Most projects are designed for 25–35 years. Counties often require a decommissioning plan and financial assurance to ensure removal of equipment and site restoration at the end of the project life.
What is the County Commission’s role?
County Commissions retain authority over local land use approvals, road agreements, stormwater coordination, permit conditions, public engagement, and economic development tools where applicable.
How are utility-scale solar projects taxed in Missouri?
Utility-scale solar projects in Missouri are transitioning from a formerly exempt status to a taxed structure, with new legislation capping taxes for projects built before 2026. Missouri law provides a fixed property tax structure for certain solar property, set at $2,500 per MW of nameplate capacity for projects placed in service beginning August 28, 2025. Tax outcomes vary by project timing and structure.
What this means in practice:
Counties will generally see a predictable property tax amount tied to project capacity (e.g., 100 MW × $2,500 = $250,000/year in base solar property tax) rather than a floating assessed value based on market appraisals.
Components of solar projects (panels, racking, inverters, etc.) are treated as tangible personal property for tax code purposes until the statutory classification changes take effect.
Local agreements (abatements/Chapter 100) can further reduce tax liability for a set period.
Is Missouri considering new solar legislation?
Proposed legislation includes potential setback standards, changes to net metering statutes, and proposed moratoriums on utility-scale solar construction. Legislative outcomes may affect project timing and requirements.
Bottom line
Utility-scale solar projects are major infrastructure investments. Each project is unique and requires careful local review, coordination with utilities, and transparent public engagement.
Reference Websites
1. Missouri Revised Statutes – Net Metering (Section 386.890)
2. Missouri Department of Natural Resources
3. Missouri Public Service Commission
4. Ameren Missouri – Integrated Resource Plan & Grid Information
5. Evergy – Regional Grid & Energy Information
6. Missouri Senate – Legislative Bill Information
7. Missouri House of Representatives – Bill Tracking
8. U.S. Department of Energy – Solar Energy Technologies Office