The year 2020 might as well have been the year of the sun, at least if the number of solar farms coming to the area are anything to go by.
Six solar farms are either letting the ink dry on tax abatement contracts or are under construction in Lamar and Red River counties. Many of those contracts come with payments in lieu to school districts, which can use the funds without first having to send them to the state.
In Prairiland ISD, with the number of solar farms coming to Pattonville, the district is also anticipating the funds coming from the agreement to help build new facilities, including a possible new athletic practice facility, a fieldhouse, a standalone career and technical education building. The district expects $15 million in solar money and is discussing a bond election for $6 million for the rest.