Virginia lawmakers have introduced a bill that would give the state more power to approve large-scale solar, wind and battery storage projects, even if they face local opposition. The bill aims to facilitate the development of clean energy sources that are essential for meeting the state’s ambitious carbon-free goals.
Why the state wants more authority
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-Charlottesville, and Del. Richard “Rip” Sullivan Jr., D-Fairfax County, would apply to solar energy facilities of at least 50 megawatts, wind energy facilities of at least 100 megawatts, and battery storage facilities of at least 50 megawatts. These are considered utility-scale projects that can generate enough electricity to power thousands of homes.
The idea, Deeds said, is to think of renewable energy from a statewide perspective rather than as a strictly local issue. He said that such projects are in the interest of every Virginian, as they would provide reliable, affordable and safe energy, while reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.
Under the bill, applicants planning such projects would be able to turn to the State Corporation Commission (SCC) instead of a local government for approval of a project’s location if:
- a locality fails to approve or deny the application in a timely manner;
- the applicant complies with certain state requirements but the locality denies it anyway;
- the locality notifies an applicant that its project is locally compatible, but then amends its zoning laws in a way that adds additional, more restrictive requirements.
Renewable energy projects that receive the SCC’s OK in these cases wouldn’t need local land-use approval or other local permits.
How local governments and residents react
The bill comes as some local governments and residents have expressed concerns or opposition to renewable energy projects, especially large solar facilities, that have been proposed or developed in recent years. Some of the common issues raised include the impact on the landscape, wildlife, agriculture, property values and taxes.
For example, in Montcalm County, voters rejected a 75-turbine wind farm in 2022 and recalled seven local officials who had supported it. In Monroe County, a solar farm that could have helped a family keep their land was blocked by the township after neighboring residents complained.
The bill’s supporters argue that local governments and residents still have a say in the process, as the SCC would hold public hearings and consider local input before making a decision. They also point out that the bill includes provisions to protect prime farmland, historical sites and scenic areas from being used for renewable energy projects.
However, some local officials and residents are wary of losing their control and autonomy over land-use decisions. They fear that the state would impose projects that are not compatible with their community’s character, needs and preferences.
What the bill means for Virginia’s clean energy goals
The bill is part of a broader effort to accelerate the transition to clean energy in Virginia, which has set a goal of achieving 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040. The state has also joined the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a cap-and-trade program that limits carbon emissions from power plants.
To meet these goals, the state needs to significantly increase its renewable energy capacity, especially from solar and wind sources. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Virginia had about 3.4 gigawatts of installed solar capacity and 12 megawatts of installed wind capacity as of November 2023. The state’s largest renewable energy project is the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project, which is expected to be completed in 2026 and generate 2.6 gigawatts of electricity.
The bill’s supporters say that the state needs to streamline the permitting process for renewable energy projects, as local delays and denials could jeopardize the state’s ability to meet its targets and deadlines. They also say that the bill would create jobs, spur economic development and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
The bill’s opponents say that the state should respect the local governments and residents who have to live with the consequences of renewable energy projects. They also say that the state should focus on other ways to reduce carbon emissions, such as energy efficiency, conservation and demand response.
The bill is currently pending in the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee and the House Labor and Commerce Committee. It is expected to face a vote in the coming weeks.
