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Bill > HB3158


OR HB3158

Relating to photovoltaic solar power generation facilities on lands zoned for exclusive farm use.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2025
In Committee
01/17/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025 Legislative Measures

Bill Summary

The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: This Act makes solar plants on farm land work with farm or allowed nonfarm uses. (Flesch Readability Score: 84.4). Allows certain photovoltaic solar power generation facilities on lands zoned for exclusive farm use to operate alongside farm or allowed nonfarm uses on a tract.

AI Summary

This bill modifies Oregon's land use regulations to allow larger photovoltaic solar power generation facilities on lands zoned for exclusive farm use, with specific provisions designed to preserve agricultural productivity. The bill creates a new framework that permits solar facilities of 15 acres or larger to be sited on farmland if they meet two key conditions: either (1) the facility is designed to operate alongside existing farm uses and minimize conflicts with agricultural activities through principles of agrivoltaics (a practice of co-locating solar panels with agricultural production), or (2) the facility ensures that the tract continues agricultural production at least 65% of its previous five-year average output. The Land Conservation and Development Commission is required to create rules ensuring that these facilities maintain or enhance agricultural value, particularly on higher-quality agricultural soils. The bill amends existing statutes to clarify that these solar facilities can be considered utility facilities and can generate power for public use or to support farm and nonfarm uses on the same tract. By providing a more flexible approach to solar development on farmland, the bill aims to balance renewable energy generation with agricultural preservation.

Committee Categories

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Referred to Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water. (on 01/17/2025)

bill text


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