AGENDA DATE: 11/16/2022
TITLE:
Title
Resolution of Intent for Zoning Text Amendment(s) related to solar energy systems
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Adopt a Resolution of Intent to initiate a Zoning Text Amendment for regulations associated with solar energy systems.
ITEM TYPE: Consent Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Walker, Rosenberg, Herrick, Filardo, Rapp, Fritz
PRESENTER (S): Bill Fritz
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: On June 14, 2017, the Board of Supervisors amended the Zoning Ordinance to define and permit “solar energy systems” in the Rural Areas zoning district by special use permit. On September 21, 2022, the Board of Supervisors discussed the need to consider regulations specific to solar energy systems as part of the ongoing Zoning Ordinance modernization project.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Natural Resources Stewardship - Thoughtfully protect and manage Albemarle County’s ecosystems and natural resources in both the Rural and Development Areas to safeguard the quality of life of current and future generations.
DISCUSSION: This proposed Zoning Text Amendment would include utilizing the County’s existing zoning consultant, the Berkley Group, to advise the County on best practices for the development of Utility Grade Solar Facilities. Specifically, the consultant is expected to develop:
• Siting agreement standards
• Appropriate fees for the review of Utility Grade Solar Facilities, including the potential to hire and pay consultants and other experts on behalf of the County
• Submittal requirements
• Performance standards
• Review criteria
• Review procedures
• Criteria to allow the Board of Supervisors to determine if the County should adopt a revenue share for solar energy projects and energy storage systems, and if adopted, which provision(s) of § 58.1-2636 of the Code of Virginia are most appropriate to include in the ordinance
The proposed project timeline is shown on Attachment A and includes:
• January 2023 - Work session with the Planning Commission (to include public comment)
• February 2023 - Work session with the Board of Supervisors
• March to May 2023 - Drafting
• May 2023 - Public Hearing on Zoning Text Amendment with Planning Commission
• July 2023 - Public Hearing on Zoning Text Amendment with Board of Supervisors
BUDGET IMPACT: The funding source for the additional scope to address solar energy systems in the Zoning Ordinance Modernization would be the recommended reappropriation of the Board of Supervisors’ Strategic Priority Support Reserve to the Community Development Department at the December 7, 2023 Board of Supervisors meeting.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Board adopt the attached Resolution of Intent (Attachment B).
ATTACHMENTS:
A - Solar Energy Systems Project Timeline
B - Resolution of Intent