NEW: Superior Court Rules Against Town of Exeter in Solar Dispute

NEW: Superior Court Rules Against Town of Exeter in Solar Dispute

A Superior Court Judge has ruled against the town of Exeter in a long-standing lawsuit against Green Development.

The lawsuit was part of Exeter’s ongoing efforts to block the development of solar farms and clean renewable energy.

"The burden is on Mr. DiGregorio and the Town to establish noncompliance with the Comprehensive Plan. It is difficult to do so when the Comprehensive Plan is based on future wants and needs and speaks of planning goals. Deference is given to town councils and legislatures to enact new ordinances. To invalidate such an amendment, the moving party must demonstrate that the amendment is contrary to the public interest or does not comply with a specific part of the comprehensive plan,” wrote Superior Court Justice Lanphear in his ruling.

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Ongoing Legal Battle

Monday’s decision does not end the legal dispute. 

“The town’s legal strategy is not sound, it hurts local farmers and landowners who are trying to protect and retain property that has been in their families for generations and it is an unnecessary burden on Exeter taxpayers," said Bill Fischer, spokesperson for Green Development.

"We all know climate change is a crisis, we know that renewable energy jobs can help support Rhode Island’s economy and yet local leaders throughout Rhode Island have decided to embrace nimbyism and lawsuits. At some point the taxpayers in these towns will realize it might be time for new leadership," added Fischer.