AGENDA DATE: 6/7/2023
TITLE:
Title
Commercial Solar Work Session
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Receive an overview of solar energy generation facilities from a land use regulatory perspective and an outline of regulatory best practices, and provide guidance on regulatory options.
ITEM TYPE: Regular Information Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Walker, Filardo, McDermott, Fritz
PRESENTER (S): Bill Fritz; Michael Zehner (The Berkely Group)
LEGAL REVIEW: Not Required
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: On June 14, 2017, the Board of Supervisors amended the Zoning Ordinance to allow solar energy systems by special use permit in the Rural Areas. On September 21, 2022, the Board authorized staff to engage a consultant to consider possible amendments to the regulations for solar energy systems. On February 28, 2023, the Planning Commission held a work session to discuss solar facilities. The Commission identified several topics for additional research (including industry data, potential land use conflicts, and environmental concerns), and provided general comments, which are included in the consultant's documentation (Attachment A, pages 12-16).
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: Since 2017, the County has approved four special use permits for solar energy systems with a total capacity of approximately 161 MW. The Zoning Ordinance has no regulations specifically addressing solar facilities, and the Comprehensive Plan provides limited guidance on the siting of these types of facilities. During the review of prior applications, the County has begun to develop standards for solar facilities. The consultant's memorandum (Attachment A) contains background information on solar systems and outlines potential best practices f...
Click here for full text