Governor backs temporary halt on commercial solar farms
Missouri could become the first state in the nation to impose a statewide moratorium on commercial solar construction, following public support from Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe for legislation that would temporarily block new projects.
During his recent State of the State address, Kehoe endorsed a bill introduced by Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin, saying the measure would place “basic guardrails around industrial solar developments that are dividing our rural communities.”
The legislation, Senate Bill 849, would halt approval and construction of commercial-scale solar projects through at least the end of 2027, while a state agency develops new rules governing how solar facilities are built and operated.
Supporters cite rural land use and local opposition
Backers of the bill argue that large-scale solar projects are increasingly drawing opposition from rural landowners, county governments, and agricultural interests concerned about land use, property values, and long-term impacts on farming communities.
O’Laughlin has been outspoken in her criticism of solar development, calling it an “uneconomic and ineffective” solution to Missouri’s energy needs. She has said the moratorium would allow the state time to establish clearer standards before additional projects move forward.
The proposal would not affect existing solar facilities but would pause new commercial development while regulatory frameworks are reviewed.
Industry warns of grid reliability consequences
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) strongly criticized the proposal, calling it “unprecedented” and warning it could undermine electric reliability and economic development.
SEIA noted that the Missouri bill comes at a time when grid operators, utilities, and state planners across the country are urging the addition of new generation capacity to meet rising electricity demand driven by population growth, manufacturing expansion, and data centers.
Industry groups argue that a blanket moratorium could delay critical investment and send negative signals to energy developers considering projects in the Midwest.
National implications if bill advances
If enacted, Missouri’s legislation could set a national precedent, potentially emboldening similar efforts in other states where renewable energy development has become politically contentious.
The debate reflects a broader national tension between energy transition goals, local land-use control, and rural economic concerns, particularly as renewable projects expand beyond traditional urban and industrial areas.
The bill is expected to receive additional legislative scrutiny in the coming weeks.
SOURCE: KTVO News