Note: This is a proof of concept for Spark Alerts. This issue is backdated to cover 2024 updates in Boone and Henry, IL and Rockingham, VA. On a typical ongoing basis, the content will be recent updates. Please help us improve by sharing your feedback and requests with us!

📰 Market & Development News

Illinois: Boone and Henry Counties

County Zoning Board denies special use permit for solar project amid farmland preservation concerns
AHJ: Boone County
1/11/25: During a recent meeting in Boone County, the Zoning Board of Appeals denied a proposed solar farm project due to noncompliance with zoning ordinances. This decision sparked considerable debate among local officials and residents, particularly regarding the potential loss of agricultural land. Some committee members argued for the project's benefits, including agrivoltaics, which allows for solar energy production alongside farming. However, concerns about preserving farmland dominated the discussions. The committee faces ongoing challenges navigating state regulations and local land use interests.
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ComEd launches Boone County community solar project
Developer: ComEd, Ameresco
AHJ: Boone County
12/13/24: ComEd and Ameresco celebrated the launch of a community solar project on a former landfill in Boone County, Illinois. The project covers 34 acres and generates 3.5 megawatts of power from over 9,600 solar modules. Around 36% of the generated energy will be subscribed by Boone County to power public facilities, with additional subscriptions from local businesses. This initiative aims to make renewable energy accessible and economically beneficial to residents, reflecting Illinois’s commitment to increasing renewable energy sources.
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Approval of Special Use Permits for Solar Farms
Project: Johnson Lake Solar 3, LLC, Johnson Lake Solar 4, LLC
AHJ: Henry County
11/12/24: The Planning & Development Committee meeting held on November 12, 2024, focused on the approval of special use permits for two solar farm energy systems:Johnson Lake Solar 3, LLC and Johnson Lake Solar 4, LLC. Both permits were reviewed positively, with no concerns raised by neighboring property owners. All committee members favored the motion to approve the permits, reflecting a clear support for renewable energy initiatives in Henry County. The meeting concluded without additional business items, emphasizing a streamlined process in addressing solar energy projects.
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Public Hearing for Solar Project Variance
Project: Beckham Solar, LLC
10/18/24: Review of a proposed variance in cable management, allowing cables to be above ground, rather than underground, and a variation in width of a pollinator buffer in an AG- Agricultural District.
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Developer plans new wind farm in Henry County
Developer: APEX Clean Energy
AHJ: Henry County
7/20/24: During a Henry County Board meeting, it was announced that a 300-megawatt wind farm is in the works, planned by APEX Clean Energy. This farm will feature 70 to 75 turbines and is targeted to be operational by 2028. With more than 60 landowners already on board, the project's adaptability in boundaries will cater to local interest. Additionally, the board discussed other topics, including storm damage updates from recent severe weather, highlighting the meetings' focus on disaster preparedness alongside renewable energy initiatives.
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Kewanee Solar Project Update
Developer: Sunpin Solar
AHJ: CIty of Kewanee
5/28/24: Update on a utility-scale solar project and its benefits to the city, prior to construction. Focus on tax benefits.
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Boone County Approves Solar Farm Developments
Developer: TerraNavigator, Borrego Inc.
4/15/24: The County Board approved a lease-option agreement with TerraNavigator for a 20-acre solar project at Landfill No. 2. Additionally, the county is considering a text amendment to the County Code to regulate solar farms, which is being reviewed by the zoning board. Borrego Inc. has also requested a special use permit for a 12.4-acre solar farm, with positive recommendations from the Planning Commission.
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Recent Ordinances on Solar and Wind Energy in Boone County
AHJ: Boone County
3/1/24: Boone County updated its ordinances regarding renewable energy installation. The key ordinance, 23-16, lays out regulations for the siting of solar and wind energy systems, promoting sustainable practices within the community. Additionally, Ordinance 23-13 provides guidelines for temporary uses, including solar projects, facilitating easier implementation under specified conditions. The county government emphasizes the importance of public engagement and transparency in these processes, allowing residents to voice their opinions on renewable energy development.
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New Henry County wind farm creates jobs, energy
Developer: Avangrid, Inc.
AHJ: Henry County
2/21/24: The new Midland Wind farm in Henry County, Illinois, has commenced its operations, providing both jobs and renewable energy to the area. Developed by Avangrid, Inc., this wind farm has a capacity of 106 MW and represents the company's fourth project in the state. It is projected to generate nearly 400,000 MWh of clean energy, enough to power about 37,000 homes. This project is significant not only for its energy production but also for its local economic impact, having created over 200 construction jobs, with ongoing employment opportunities expected to arise from its operations. Additionally, it will contribute more than $25 million in property taxes to local services such as schools and libraries.

Virginia: Rockingham County

Rockingham County Board of Supervisors Meeting Discusses Renewable Energy Facility Ordinance
AHJ: Rockingham County
1/8/25: During the Rockingham County Board of Supervisors meeting on January 8, 2025, discussions centered around an ordinance amendment that would allow large-scale solar energy facilities of up to 360 acres in designated agricultural districts. These projects must ensure active agricultural use is maintained throughout their operation. Public hearings are set for community feedback on this and other zoning amendments, highlighting a commitment to balancing community development needs with renewable energy goals.
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Energix Agrisolar Zoning Amendment Denied by Rockingham County Planning Commission
Developer: Energix
AHJ: Rockingham County
12/6/24: During the Rockingham County Planning Commission meeting on December 3, 2024, a proposal by Energix to amend zoning laws for large-scale agrisolar projects was unanimously denied. The amendment sought to allow solar facilities on agricultural land but faced strong local opposition. The decision reflects community concerns about how these projects serve primarily urban data centers, creating a disconnect between energy demand and local needs. The ongoing focus on renewable energy in Virginia is now entwined with discussions on the environmental ramifications of data centers and whether these initiatives truly benefit local residents.
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Discussion on Large-Scale Solar Operations and Energy Storage Systems
AHJ: Rockingham County
11/9/24: Discussion by the County Board of Supervisors on amending the ordinance to allow more large-scale solar facilities with dual usage agreements and the adoption of a of a $1,400 per megawatt revenue share for energy storage systems in the County.
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Consideration of Sun Ridge Solar Special Use Permit
Applicant name: Sun Ridge Solar
3/26/24: Board of Supervisors considering revoking a special use permit for an in-development project due to development issues and public feedback. Specifically, the public raised concerns that the environmental costs of development outweighed the benefits of clean energy. No further updates.
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Solar facility in McGaheysville denied by Rockingham County Board of Supervisors

2/15/24: The Board unanimously denied approval for a solar facility due to public concern. The project was zoned adjacent to a local cemetery.

📢 Policy & Program Updates

Henry County Wind Farm Rezoning Moratorium

• Prevents the rezoning of land to be used for wind farms in the County.

• Expires March 2, 2025 unless extended.

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