Virginia is stripping local governments of their ability to enact blanket solar bans. (Canary Media)
Nearly two-thirds of VA counties ban (or severely restrict) utility-scale solar farms. But the state’s data center frenzy is compounding the pressure for new, more affordable electrons. Beginning July 1, a new law signed by Gov. Abigail Spanberger voids those prohibitions and establishes new statewide siting guidelines.
Yes, but: Localities can still reject individual project permits. But under the new statute, governments must explain their reasoning for any permit denial directly to state regulators.
Why it matters: The newly viable acreage could trigger an immediate rush on the queue. Industry groups suspect developers are already pitching projects in previously off-limits territory.