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Planning commission extends Prana Solar special-use permit while developer secures new interconnection agreement
Summary
The commission voted to extend the special-use permit for the Prana Solar project (WSUP22-0037) for two years, giving the applicant additional time to secure a new large-generator interconnection agreement after prior investors withdrew.
The Washoe County Planning Commission on April 1 approved a two-year extension of time for the special-use permit for the Prana Solar project (WSUP22-0037), allowing the permit to remain in force while the applicant secures a new large-generator interconnection agreement with grid stakeholders.
Trevor Lloyd, planning manager, told commissioners the original special-use permit—granted in February 2023—authorizes a photovoltaic energy facility with a 65-megawatt generating capacity, 25 megawatts of battery storage, a 345 kV substation and associated grading and modifications. Lloyd said the site is in the Flanagan/High Desert area immediately abutting the California state line and is bisected by the Union Pacific Railroad.
Lloyd said the applicant's prior interconnection agreement was tied to investors who have withdrawn; new investors are negotiating a replacement interconnection agreement and requested additional time. Charles Hooper, listed as the landowner and appearing by Zoom, confirmed the applicant seeks the extension and intends to pursue the project.
Commissioner Dan Lazarecki moved to approve the amendment of conditions (case WAC25-4) to extend the special-use permit for Prana Solar (noted in the staff report as Grama Energy in the motion language) through February 10, 2027, and reaffirm the required findings. Commissioner Rob Pierce seconded the motion; the commission approved it by voice vote.
The extension preserves the permit’s approvals while the applicant completes negotiations; any further modifications to the permit or its conditions would require future review.
