Fight brewing over recommended legislation to give State more control over local solar projects

The Commission on Electric Utility Regulation (CEUR) has recommended legislation to create a new oversight board for large-scale solar projects in Virginia. This initiative aims to strike a balance between the state’s clean energy mandates and local governments’ authority over land use decisions.

According to Cardinal News, the proposed solar siting board would include representatives from the Department of Environmental Quality, the State Corporation Commission, and local or regional officials from areas where solar projects are planned. The board’s role would be to provide guidance to localities, ensuring that solar developments align with statewide energy goals while addressing local concerns.

CEUR also proposes establishing a statewide framework for local solar ordinances, requiring localities to adopt regulations within specified parameters. This framework would aim to prevent blanket bans on solar projects while preserving local autonomy within a consistent state policy. Delegate Rip Sullivan Jr., D-Fairfax County, a commission member, emphasized the need for a system that empowers local governments to make informed decisions without completely prohibiting solar projects.

However, the Virginia Association of Counties (VACo), representing all 95 counties in the state, has strongly opposed the proposed legislation. Accomack County Administrator Mike Mason expressed concerns about state overreach, stating, “Any bill that advocates for the Commonwealth’s intervention into local land use decisions is always of great concern to localities. This legislation is no exception and is a perfect example of an attempt by some in Richmond to influence local matters—matters best controlled by our residents.”

Mason pointed to existing zoning restrictions in Accomack County that limit utility-scale solar projects to industrial districts requiring conditional use permits. “This action was taken to preserve our rural landscape and safeguard our farmland, as supported in our comprehensive plan,” Mason added. He also stated that he could not foresee the county’s Board of Supervisors endorsing legislation that undermines their prior decisions.

Similarly, Northampton County has not approved new solar projects in recent years, following the development of a large solar farm at Cherrydale in Eastville.

In addition to creating the solar siting board, CEUR has recommended allocating $4 million to Virginia’s planning district commissions to develop regional energy plans. These plans would outline strategies for meeting the state’s clean energy goals and encourage coordination at local and regional levels.

The recommendations have drawn input from various stakeholders, including the solar industry and environmental advocates.