Proposed solar regulations for Warren County are nearing completion — and not a moment too soon.

Two solar projects are ongoing now, but Michael Lyon, county zoning officer, told members of the Planning & Zoning Commission that he’s been contacted several times in the last six weeks by people interested in placing solar farms in Warren County asking when the regulations may be available.

While it’s important to get the proposed solar regulations done, it’s more important that they be done well. While Pennsylvania isn’t throwing as much money at solar developers as surrounding states like New York, there are federal subsidies available that mean rural areas like Warren County will be eyed by solar developers.

Some farmers who may be struggling could find small-scale solar development a way to help their businesses. We’re sure there are some county residents who want to embrace solar panels as a way to shrink their carbon footprint and their existing energy bills.

Solar development isn’t a bad thing as long as the county has the appropriate regulations in place to protect farmland and the county’s key natural sites.

Developers want the regulations finished. The needs of developers aren’t the most important things to county officials, nor should they be. Getting these regulations right is the most important thing.