AGENDA DATE: 9/21/2022
TITLE:
Title
Utility Grade Solar Presentation
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Proposal to engage consultant to assist with the development of standards for Utility Grade Solar Facilities
ITEM TYPE: Regular Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Walker, Filardo, Rapp, Clark, Fritz
PRESENTER (S): Bill Fritz
LEGAL REVIEW: Not Required
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: On June 14, 2017, the Board of Supervisors amended the Zoning Ordinance to permit "solar energy systems" in the Rural Areas by special use permit (SP). When the ordinance was amended it was noted that, "[s]uch requests would be reviewed following the County's standard SP review process, considering the factors outlined in the Zoning Ordinance relative to the review of all SPs (?18.33.8), and allowing for in-depth review of potential site-specific impacts such as: visibility and screening, glare and reflectivity, reversibility, stormwater runoff, tree and habitat loss, noise, setbacks, security fencing, impacts to natural, cultural, and historic resources, decommissioning the system, and impacts to agricultural/forestal uses, as well as the standards outlined in the Comprehensive Plan for new uses in the Rural Area."
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: The County has reviewed three SPs for solar energy systems. One application is currently pending and staff is aware of interest in additional facilities. Due to the increased likelihood of additional applications, staff believes that it is appropriate to develop review processes and project standards that address the unique characteristics of solar energy systems. Staff is proposing to engage our zoning ordinance modernization project consultant, the Berkley Group, to conduct a review an...
Click here for full text