AGENDA DATE: 4/5/2017
TITLE:
Title
ZTA2016-07: Utility-Scale Photovoltaic Generation Facilities
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Resolution of Intent to amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow for the siting, development, construction, operation, integration and decommissioning of utility-scale photovoltaic generation facilities (large-scale solar energy systems).
ITEM TYPE: Regular Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Walker, Kamptner, Blair, Graham, Gast-Bray, Maliszewski
PRESENTER (S): Margaret Maliszewski
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Douglas C. Walker
BACKGROUND: SolUnesco wishes to develop an 11 megawatt photovoltaic solar energy generation system in Albemarle County. The current zoning ordinance allows for the transmission and distribution of energy, but not the generation of energy. Consequently, a zoning text amendment (ZTA) is required to allow the use.
STRATEGIC PLAN:
Natural Resources: 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.
Rural Areas: Preserve the character of rural life with thriving farms and forests, traditional crossroad communities, and protected scenic areas, historic sites, and biodiversity.
DISCUSSION:
ORIGIN: SolUnesco, a developer of large-scale solar energy projects, has filed this ZTA request.
PUBLIC PURPOSE TO BE SERVED: Renewable energy production can serve the public through reducing the use of fossil fuels and related emissions, which in turn preserves natural resources. Alternative energy use is consistent with Albemarle County Comprehensive Plan policy in the following ways: 1) Renewable energy production is consistent with Natural Resources Objective 8, which calls for the recognition of changes occurring to the earth's climate and to anticipate and mitigate impacts to the County; 2) Renewable energy production is consistent with the recommendations of the 2010...
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