|
|
|
Happy Friday!
March 7, 2025
|
|
|
|
This week our visited a handful of counties across the Commonwealth, including a board meeting in Halifax on our mission for
Clean Energy the Right Way.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hydrogen, Nuclear, and Electricity—Where they Intersect
|
 |
|
|
|
Green hydrogen, produced via electrolysis using renewable energy sources like wind and solar, can play a crucial role in supporting clean energy production. Unlike fossil-fuel-based hydrogen production methods, green hydrogen is created by splitting water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity from renewable sources, making it entirely carbon-free. This process can be strategically used to store excess renewable energy, which can then be utilized to support nuclear reactors during periods of high energy demand. Additionally, hydrogen can serve as a supplemental fuel for advanced nuclear technologies, such as high-temperature reactors, which can use hydrogen as a heat transfer medium or even produce hydrogen themselves in a symbiotic energy system. As the country (and Virginia) explores and develops more efficient energy solutions, it’s vital to understand the differences between them.
One important distinction between the different hydrogen productions, are the varying environmental impacts. Grey hydrogen is the most common form and is produced from natural gas via steam methane reforming (SMR), releasing significant amounts of CO₂ into the atmosphere. Blue hydrogen follows the same production process as grey hydrogen but incorporates carbon capture and storage (CCS) to reduce emissions. Turquoise hydrogen is generated through methane pyrolysis, producing solid carbon instead of CO₂, but still relies on fossil fuel feedstocks. In contrast, green hydrogen is the only form that is truly carbon-free and sustainable, as it is produced using renewable energy without emitting greenhouse gases.
The synergy between green hydrogen and nuclear power is particularly promising in energy systems that require both baseload and flexible energy generation. Nuclear power plants operate most efficiently at constant output, but by integrating green hydrogen production, they can use excess electricity during periods of low grid demand to produce and store hydrogen for later use. This stored hydrogen can then be used in fuel cells, industrial applications, or as a backup energy source during peak demand, enhancing overall grid reliability. Moreover, advanced nuclear reactors designed for high-temperature operation can further optimize hydrogen production by increasing electrolysis efficiency, making nuclear and green hydrogen a mutually reinforcing combination for a cleaner and more resilient energy future.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
This week, the Giles County Board of Supervisors voted to approve a 5MW solar installation, representing the first solar project to be permitted in the county. The 5MW solar installation, designed with careful attention to the county’s natural topography, will provide residents with a new, American-made energy option while preserving the area’s scenic landscape. The approval of this project demonstrates the county’s commitment to embracing responsible energy solutions that balance progress with the preservation of its unique natural beauty.
By greenlighting this project, Giles County is reinforcing its support for American innovation, energy security, and property rights. The decision allows landowners to make productive use of their property while contributing to the diversification of the local energy mix. As the nation seeks greater energy independence, projects like this play a critical role in strengthening the resilience of the grid while fostering local economic growth. This approval not only highlights Giles County’s forward-thinking leadership but also sets a precedent for how rural communities can thoughtfully integrate renewable energy without compromising their values.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
This week, our team went to Brunswick, Halifax, and Lunenburg counties.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Halifax County Board of Supervisors
|
|
|
|
On Monday night, Energy Right team member Dylan Taylor attended the Halifax County Board of Supervisors meeting regarding community-scale solar development. Halifax county was voting on allowing solar in their M1 and M2 zoning. There, Dylan gave remarks applauding the county for their continued support and forward-thinking approach towards clean energy in the county.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VCU researchers assess land impacts of Virginia’s solar industry — now and in the future
By Madeline Reinsel, VCU News
|
|
Virginia’s rapid growth in utility-scale solar has fueled debates over land use, conservation, and rural development. Since 2016, over 30,000 acres have been developed for solar, with forests and cropland being the most utilized. While solar offers clear benefits—lower emissions and energy cost reductions—concerns remain about its effect on agriculture and high-value conservation land. Research from VCU suggests better legislation could steer development away from ecologically sensitive areas without slowing industry growth.
Looking ahead, solar’s future in Virginia depends on policy direction and community acceptance. If growth remains moderate, solar could supply up to 15% of the state’s electricity by 2035, though stricter local regulations have already slowed expansion. Finding a balance between development and land preservation will be key to ensuring Virginia’s energy transition remains both sustainable and locally supported. Solar remains one of the cheapest and cleanest energy sources.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NEXT WEEK
We’ll be going to Brunswick, King George, King William, Lunenburg, Middlesex, Sussex, and York counties!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Virginia lawmakers are considering parking lot solar as a way to expand clean energy without impacting rural landscapes. Del. David Bulova’s bill, which passed the General Assembly, would allow localities to require solar canopies over non-residential parking lots with 100 or more spaces. Supporters argue this could help reduce reliance on large-scale rural solar farms, while opponents, including real estate developers, cite high installation costs.
While parking lot solar wouldn’t generate as much power as utility-scale projects, it presents an opportunity to make use of developed land. Bulova sees it as a way for urban areas to contribute more to Virginia’s clean energy transition, easing the burden on rural communities. The bill now awaits Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s decision.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
