We have advocated in this space many, many times for the development and use of renewable energy. We have hoped to see policies and programs to encourage solar and wind energy used locally, statewide, and nationally.

Now an actual proposal has come before Gloucester County authorities. Two hundred acres of farmland alongside Route 14 are proposed for conversion to a solar farm. The county planning commission backed this proposal last week with a 7-0 vote.

Now that this pipe dream of renewable energy has a chance to become reality, how do we feel? The answer, with one qualifier, is supportive.

That qualifier: be sure the panels are screened from the highway and adjacent property owners by the most stringent means possible. Buffer zones, vegetation and good rules set now will pave the way, we hope, for additional facilities of this kind in our region. Do it right, and people will support renewable energy. Do it wrong, while they may support the concept, they will oppose the reality.

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