Public hearings to discuss siting agreements for solar companies Firebird Solar and Thunderbird Solar are scheduled for the next Henry County Board of Supervisors meeting, 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Administration Building.
The proposed agreements would be between the companies and the county.
If the agreements are approved, the companies would construct and operate what they describe as a ground-mounted solar photovoltaic electric generating facility on a parcel totaling 40.9 acres.
The proposed projects, located at 340 Ebony Drive in Ridgeway, will require special-use permits. Even if they’re approved, the developers reserve the right not to pursue the projects if certain factors are not ideal.
“Developer has no obligation to develop the project,” reads parts of the ordinance concerning both siting agreements. “It is understood that development of the Project is contingent upon a number of factors, including, but not limited to, BZA [board of zoning appeals] approval of the SUP, regulatory approvals, availability and cost of equipment, financing, and demand for renewable energy.”
The proposed agreements also call for a couple of payments to the county. These include $50,000 to be paid within 60 days after supervisors approve the agreement and $25,000 to be paid within 60 days after the issuance of the project’s building permit.
These funds are earmarked for a number of purposes. These include hazard mitigation and broadband expansion, among other things.
The full meeting agenda is available here.
