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Bill

SB 347

Solar facilities; local regulation, special exceptions.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Schuyler VanValkenburg

SB 347 allows Virginia localities to regulate solar facilities through special exception processes, giving communities control over solar project placement and conditions.

Governor's recommendation received by Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 347

Legislative bill overview

SB 347 grants local governments in Virginia the authority to regulate solar facilities through special exception processes, allowing counties and cities to impose conditions and restrictions on solar development projects within their jurisdictions. The bill has already passed the Senate and is now advancing through the House committee process.

Why is this important

Solar energy development is expanding rapidly across Virginia, creating tension between state renewable energy goals and local land-use concerns. This bill directly affects where and how solar farms can be built, impacting property owners, developers, and communities' ability to control local development patterns while balancing clean energy transition objectives.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state energy policy: Communities may use special exceptions to effectively block solar projects, potentially conflicting with Virginia's clean energy mandates and carbon reduction targets
  • Developer certainty and costs: Requiring special exceptions creates additional permitting complexity and potential delays, potentially increasing project costs and timeline uncertainty for solar companies
  • Rural property impacts: Special exception processes could be used to restrict development on rural farmland or undeveloped properties, affecting agricultural landowners' ability to lease land for solar revenue

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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