Solar energy facility: an energy generating facility or area principally used to convert solar energy to electricity, which includes, but is not limited to, the use of one or more solar energy systems. The definition only includes facilities whose primary purpose is to sell electricity to be used off-site.

Carteret County, NC, regulates solar energy facilities defined as installations primarily used to convert solar energy into electricity for off-site sale. Solar facilities must maintain a setback of 125 feet and be enclosed by a 6-foot fence with a completely opaque surface. Vegetative buffer requirements outlined. The maximum height for solar structures is 15 feet. A detailed decommissioning plan must be submitted, outlining the conditions triggering decommissioning, removal of all non-utility equipment, site restoration to pre-development condition, completion timeframe, landowner agreements, responsible parties, and plan updates. Facilities that do not produce power for six months are considered abandoned and must be decommissioned. A financial performance guarantee equal to 125% of the estimated decommissioning cost is required. A site plan must accompany applications. Solar facilities are prohibited in special flood hazard areas