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HAPPY FRIDAY
December 13, 2024
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This week our team traveled throughout the Commonwealth, visiting just under a dozen counties on our mission for
Clean Energy the Right Way.
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From Commerce to Clean Energy Virginia’s Future with Solar
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Virginia consistently ranks as one of the top states for business and commerce in the United States, offering a robust economy, excellent infrastructure, and a highly educated workforce. The Commonwealth’s business-friendly environment has attracted major corporations and fostered economic growth, bringing new opportunities to Virginians across the state. This economic success has led to increased job creation, higher household incomes, and a thriving business ecosystem that benefits residents and companies alike. However, as the nature of work and business evolves, there is an increasing strain on Virginia’s power grid.
Relying solely on traditional energy sources could lead to rising costs for consumers and businesses as the demand for energy continues to rise. Taking all the different ways to generate energy into consideration and create a stronger, more independent energy grid, we can begin to make more educated decisions that will lead to lower consumer costs for energy and ultimately, continue pulling ahead as a state known for our economic and business mindfulness. To address this challenge, solar energy presents a promising solution. By incorporating solar power into the energy mix, Virginia has the opportunity to generate affordable, clean electricity that helps lower consumer bills and contributes to local economic growth.
As we navigate this energy environment, it’s crucial to make informed, merit-based decisions on solar projects, considering each proposal independently without blanket assertions. Local decision-making plays a vital role in shaping Virginia’s energy future, but it must be supported by sound policies and up-to-date research to ensure the best outcomes for communities and the state as a whole. It is important that we help to advance responsible solar projects, encouraging investment in the future of our communities and the Commonwealth.
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Tradition Shepherds Innovation:
The Agrivoltaic Bridge
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This past weekend, Energy Right team member Dylan had the opportunity to see agriculture and solar energy work hand in hand in Appomattox County. While traveling to the county, we were able to meet with Matt English, a sheep grazer who we’ve spoken to in the past about his work with herds and agrivoltaics. The county boasts beautiful countryside that most residents want to preserve. Matt’s venture is one of many that shows how when operations are managed properly, agriculture and new technologies can work seamlessly.
During the day long conversation with Matt, we learned about herd health, solar site maintenance, giving farmers a new chance opportunity, and keeping the rural character intact. One of the main talking points was how perception is everything, and all it takes is one (good or bad) actor to change that. Being a respected member of the Appomattox community, Matt is a voice people respect and listen to. When solar developments and agriculture issues arise, he has been a quiet, yet firm voice on the benefits of blending the two together.
“Tradition can get in the way of progress, and that’s not something we should exemplify.”
This was a standout phrase from our conversation, and one that resounds with many as our Commonwealth continues to grow in population and infrastructure. It’s important to maintain and respect each community’s values as each area navigates through what is best for their own people, economy, and environment.
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This week, our team travelled to:
Rockbridge, Rockingham Scoutt, and Surry counties.
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This past weekend, ER team member Dylan Taylor had the opportunity to visit solar grazer Matt English’s Farm. Idyllic scenes like this help remind us of what our work is all about—reaching out to communities far and wide, helping to inform about clean energy, and maintaining the characteristics that make each part of our Commonwealth so beautiful and unique.
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Rules for solar on Virginia prime agricultural, forest land being considered
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New solar siting regulations in Virginia, stemming from House Bill 206, aim to balance the state’s clean energy goals with preserving farmland and forests. These rules mandate mitigation for solar projects impacting prime farmland or forested areas, requiring developers to offset disturbances by conserving similar land. While farmers and foresters back the effort to protect vital resources, solar developers criticize the regulations as costly and potentially hindering clean energy progress.
We support responsible solar development that prioritizes collaboration and sustainability. By leveraging underutilized lands and incorporating practices like agrivoltaics, Virginia can meet its energy needs while respecting agricultural and environmental priorities. Thoughtful, merit-based siting decisions are crucial to achieving a balanced, clean energy future.
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NEXT WEEK
We’ll be going to Brunswick, Halifax, Lunenburg, Prince Edward, Nottoway, Scott, Suffolk, and Sussex counties.
Have a great weekend!
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Southwest Virginia is exploring the feasibility of a small modular reactor (SMR) as part of Governor Youngkin’s “All of the Above” Energy Plan. LENOWISCO Planning District conducted a study on potential sites in Lee, Wise, and Scott counties, as well as Norton, highlighting the region’s suitability for such a facility.
With electricity demand expected to double or triple by 2050, the evaluation process will consider costs, safety, environmental impact, and community input. Advocates emphasize balancing innovation with stewardship, ensuring energy development aligns with the values and priorities of Southwest Virginia.
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