Bill > HB1601

This bill establishes new requirements for siting high energy use facilities (HEUFs), which are defined as facilities expected to require 100 megawatts or more of electrical power. Before a locality can approve a rezoning application, special exception, or special use permit for a new HEUF, the applicant must conduct and submit a site assessment examining the sound profile of the facility's impact on residential units and schools within 500 feet of the property boundary. Additionally, localities may require the assessment to investigate potential effects on ground and surface water resources, agricultural resources, parks, registered historic sites, and forestland. The bill also mandates that the electric utility provide information about substations and anticipated transmission voltage needed to serve the facility. These site assessments will help localities evaluate the proposed HEUF's consistency with comprehensive plans and compliance with local ordinances. The bill explicitly does not apply to existing approved sites seeking modest expansions and does not diminish local zoning authorities. Importantly, the bill clarifies that these assessments do not alter the State Corporation Commission's jurisdiction over utility-related matters.

Government Affairs

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB1601