Bill > HB3158

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.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3158