Beyond the Panels: Ensuring Environmental Compliance for Solar Development
Driven by the state's growing renewable energy goals, the largest renewable resource used to produce electricity currently in Virginia is solar energy (EIA, n.d.). Given the recent influx in the solar industry since the early 2020’s (EIA, n.d.), careful consideration of erosion and sediment control, as well as effective stormwater management, remains critical to minimizing environmental impact during the development of these sites. Soil stabilization, soil quality, and strategic implementation of erosion control measures and stormwater management practices are essential during site preparation and construction to maintain local water quality. These measures not only protect the environment but also contribute to the long-term sustainability and success of solar energy projects in the region. In this presentation, AMT will help to define the role of regulation and compliance in solar site development, highlighting best practices and lessons learned from our experience as inspectors. We will review industry concepts, provide insight into the critical components of reporting and communications, and discuss the steps of regulatory enforcement.
Author Bio
With over eight years of experience in the Environmental Services / Water Resources industry, Mary Simmons, CFM is a Senior Environmental Scientist and DEQ-Certified Inspector providing project support for water resource programs for municipalities across Virginia. This project work includes Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) Inspections, Stormwater Management (SWM) Inspections, post-construction BMP monitoring, resilience plan support, GIS analysis for various contracts, and MS4 programmatic support for localities. With over five years of experience in the Environmental Services/Water Resources and Utility Solar Construction industry, Chris Labadie is an Environmental Scientist and DEQ-Certified Dual Inspector and Plan Reviewer, providing consulting services to support municipalities across Virginia. This work includes ESC and SWM inspections, ESC Control and SWM plan review, construction phase services, post-construction BMP monitoring, MS4 programmatic support for localities.
