• On-Demand Video

Agricultural and Conservation Siting Considerations for Grid-Scale Solar

Land Use, Zoning Tools, and Local Government Considerations

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On-Demand Video

---------- CLE 2 sub/0 eth PRICE Regular: $149.00
New Attorney: $75.00
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About

With over 500 grid-scale projects in the PJM queue, Pennsylvania has become ground zero for siting and constructing solar energy.  

Nearly every Pennsylvania county has one or more grid-scale solar projects proposed, totaling over an estimated 18 GW of electric generation capacity.  

Siting requirements, land use implications, and long-term trends in energy demand and usage: What does it all mean for municipalities? 

Explore the current landscape of grid-scale solar in Pennsylvania and the various Subdivision and Land-Use (SALDO) ordinance and zoning tools that exist. Learn how municipalities are using these planning tools to manage their built and natural environments.  

Useful information for municipalities who have an interest in maintaining agricultural production through dual use options. 

Join the panel for a study on agrivoltaics and how certain types of agricultural activities can be compatible with solar systems. Understand how land use can support sustainability practices that help mitigate climate change, reduce flooding, enhance carbon sequestration, support pollinator and wildlife habitat, minimize maintenance costs, and improve water quality by reducing runoff, soil erosion, and sedimentation. 

The panel will also discuss where farmland preservation programs, Clean and Green, and other land preservation efforts interact with solar siting and construction.

Our agenda is designed to introduce township and county solicitors to the current landscape of grid-scale solar in Pennsylvania.

Local experts will discuss local land use trends related to solar and methods municipalities can utilize to minimize impacts.

  • Grid-scale Solar in PA: Background 
  • Grid-scale Solar Siting Requirements 
  • Industry Perspectives and Priorities 
  • Municipal Planning Tools – A County Land Planner
  • Agrivoltaics on the Ground (examples) 
  • Sustainability Considerations 

All attendees will receive the course book as a digital download.

Recorded in December 2023.

 
Practice Areas

Faculty

NameFirm/Company
Nicole Faraguna DCNR
Thomas B. Murphy, Solar Education Advisor PA State Association of Township Supervisors
Michael Roth PA Department of Agriculture
Douglas Wolfgang PA Department of Agriculture
Faculty may vary by location.
PBI reserves the right to substitute speakers at all programs.
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