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Planning commission recommends Bealton 14‑MW solar project after detailed review
Summary
The Fauquier County Planning Commission voted to forward a recommendation of approval for a 14‑megawatt built‑in solar project near Bealton after hearing detailed studies and negotiated conditions on screening, stormwater and decommissioning.
The Fauquier County Planning Commission voted on Nov. 2024 to recommend approval of a 14‑megawatt built‑in solar special exception for a site near Bealton, finding the application addressed many of the commission’s earlier concerns about visual impacts, environmental protections and decommissioning.
Adam Shellenberger, county staff, summarized the proposal and proposed conditions, saying the project would develop about 93 acres of a roughly 161‑acre parcel and limit the panel base to 47 acres while preserving wetlands and existing utility corridors. He told commissioners the applicant proposed revisions to several conditions, including raising the panel base cap to 55 acres and extending the operational life from 35 to 40 years to match lease terms.
Bobby Joss of SunTribe, the applicant’s developer, told the commission the team had conducted environmental and cultural studies and was committed to robust screening and a decommissioning bond. “We’ve conducted extensive studies to ensure the project will not impact sensitive environmental or cultural historic resources,” Joss said, adding the project will be sited to minimize visibility and that decommissioning costs will be funded before construction.
Opponents raised concerns about tree clearing, stormwater runoff and damage to historic resources. Jim Rich of Citizens for Fauquier County said the project “could cause the loss of important forest and increase runoff,” and asked for clear protections and remediation plans. Supporters, including local conservation partners and neighbors, said the site is appropriate given adjacent industrial uses and that strict conditions can mitigate impacts.
Commissioners said the application incorporated many staff suggestions and the changes the commission has sought in the past for utility‑scale solar proposals. After discussion the commission voted to forward the special exception to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation of approval.
The Board of Supervisors will consider the application at a future meeting. The planning record includes the applicant’s visuals, balloon tests and multiple technical studies submitted with the application.
