Solar, Agricultural, Farmland and Environmental Act
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
The Solar, Agricultural, Farmland, and Environmental Act establishes a process for reviewing photovoltaic energy facilities constructed on farmland in South Carolina. It requires a certificate from the Public Service Commission, outlines specific definitions and application procedures, and mandates public hearings. The act aims to balance the potential benefits of solar energy with the preservation of valuable agricultural land, setting deadlines for commission decisions and establishing costs for regulatory staff and the commission.
Key provisions
- Requires a certificate from the Public Service Commission for construction on farmland.
- Defines key terms, including ‘farmland,’ ‘photovoltaic energy facility,’ and ‘certificate.’
- Establishes a certificate application process with specific requirements for information and public notice.
- Mandates public hearings regarding certificate applications.
- Requires the Public Service Commission to issue a decision within 180 days of application filing.
- Provides for the consolidation of parties with similar interests in proceedings.
- Establishes a process for amending certificates.
- Allocates costs for Regulatory Staff and the Public Service Commission for filed applications.
Who is affected
- Electric Utilities
- Agricultural Landowners
- The Public Service Commission
- Local Municipalities
- Environmental Advocacy Groups
Bill text
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