That’s why we successfully advocated for HB206—legislation that requires solar developers to offset the negative impacts of large solar projects on water quality and agricultural and forested lands. Since that legislation passed in 2022, PEC has been part of a regulatory panel of solar developers, environmental advocates and state agencies working to define those requirements.
Distributed, Clean Generation
When appropriately sited, renewable options such as solar, wind and geothermal, can perform an extremely valuable function – providing peak power close to the load, energy security, cost savings, local employment opportunities, and emissions reductions.
Shining a Light on Agrivoltaics at Roundabout Meadows
This spring, the Piedmont Environmental Council will unveil a project at our Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows with the potential to revolutionize the relationship between the agricultural lands that make up the heart of the Virginia Piedmont and the need for more solar energy capacity across the Commonwealth.
In the Driver’s Seat on Parking Lot Solar
Since Virginia is still at the beginning of its energy transition, now is the perfect time to rebuild our energy system in a way that is just and fair to all Virginia residents and ratepayers. Toward that end, PEC has taken the lead in aggressively exploring the viability of parking lot solar in Virginia.
Solar for Rural Businesses Workshop Resources – May 7, 2024
On May 7, 2024, PEC hosted a workshop called “Solar for Rural Businesses: Accessing Funding for Small-Scale Solar” in Albemarle County.
Three Advocacy Priorities That Need Your Attention
Since the General Assembly began its 2024 session, the newly-opened General Assembly office building and the Capitol have seen frenetic activity, day in and day out. Many bills that were introduced in January have now seen numerous amendments and text changes, with some being passed over and others being voted out of committee and onto the House or Senate floor for action.
2024 General Assembly Begins
As you’ve probably noticed from an uptick in news out of Richmond, the Virginia General Assembly kicked off this Wednesday, Jan. 10.
Bringing Solar to Farms in the Piedmont
Whether it’s DIY or in the hands of the Commonwealth’s many trusted local solar businesses, now is a better time than ever to go solar.
2023 Highlights: A Holistic Approach to Conservation
PEC works to protect and restore the lands and waters of the Virginia Piedmont, while building stronger, more sustainable communities. The following highlights reflect our work in 2023.
Resources from our Solar on the Farm workshop – November 14, 2023
On November 14, 2023, PEC hosted a workshop called “Solar on the Farm: Improving Your Ag Operation with On-site Energy.”
2024 General Assembly: Building Bipartisan Support for Conservation
Updates on the conversations taking place in Richmond and a few of the ways PEC is working to support conservation efforts statewide.