Hexagon Energy seeks approval for 3 megawatt solar facility in Mill Creek

The Planning Commission of James City County convened on January 8, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including a significant proposal for a solar facility.

The meeting began with a presentation from Ms. Esther Rekleman of Hexagon Energy, who applied for a Special Use Permit (SUP) to establish a 3 megawatt solar facility at 101 and 121 Ivy Hill Road. The properties in question are zoned A1 General Agricultural and are designated as rural lands in the county's comprehensive plan from February 1945. However, these properties are currently part of the Mill Creek Agricultural and Forestal District (AFD), necessitating a withdrawal of 60.6 acres from the AFD to proceed with the project.

Staff reviewed the application against the criteria set forth in the Board of Supervisors' policy for AFD withdrawals. They concluded that the application did not meet the necessary criteria, as it was not prompted by unforeseen circumstances and would not serve a public service. Consequently, staff could not support the AFD withdrawal request. The AFD Advisory Committee had previously voted unanimously to recommend denial of this application at their October 17 meeting.

The proposed solar facility aims to occupy approximately 47.5 acres of the total 101.3 acres of the property, with access via Richmond Road. The site has a history of commercial timbering, with activities as recent as 2021. The facility is planned to operate for 40 years, after which a decommissioning plan will be executed to restore the land to agricultural or forest use.

Despite the challenges regarding the AFD withdrawal, staff indicated that the solar facility could align with the county's comprehensive plan, as solar farms are generally considered low-intensity uses post-construction. The Planning Commission was advised to find that the proposed facility is substantially in accord with both the 2024 comprehensive plan and the earlier 1945 plan, as required by Virginia state code.

Additionally, on December 10, 2024, the Board of Supervisors adopted a solar facilities policy to outline application requirements and performance standards for solar facility development in the county.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the implications of the proposed solar facility and the next steps in the review process, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue about land use and renewable energy development in James City County.