A retired gas industry executive, a shadowy “grassroots” group and a controversial media company are spreading misinformation while turning residents against a proposed solar farm — and each other.

Intense Debate Over Solar: A large solar farm proposed in Knox County, Ohio, has drawn about 4,000 public comments — more than any other solar project in the state.

Newspaper Misinformation: After the local paper was sold to Metric Media, part of a “pink slime” network, the Mount Vernon News published one-sided coverage and dubious claims about solar power.

Fossil Fuel Influence: Opposition to solar was stoked by a group whose major donor — a retired gas-industry executive — also leads a pro-gas dark-money organization.