Commission finds Laurel Branch Solar preliminary plan substantially in accord; commissioners urge close monitoring

The Lunenburg County Planning Commission on April 6 unanimously found that Dominion Energy’s preliminary 15.2‑2232 submission for an 80‑megawatt Laurel Branch Solar project is substantially in accord with the county comprehensive plan, clearing the way for a formal conditional‑use permit hearing.

Robin Lucey, a Dominion Energy development manager, presented the project for roughly 2,378 acres southwest of Kenbridge, framing it as an economic development opportunity that would be sited near existing transmission infrastructure. Lucey said Dominion intended to refine site plans to incorporate screening and vegetative buffers; commissioners noted several mapped buffers were already cut and would need reestablishment or replacement.

Multiple speakers registered support and opposition. Supporters cited economic benefits; opponents raised concerns about impacts to agriculture, well water and open space. Planner Lindsay Edwards summarized the staff report and emphasized required erosion and stormwater controls (one sediment basin per roughly 25 acres was discussed as a design rule to address erosion).

Commissioners praised aspects of the application but repeatedly emphasized the need for clear, documentable compliance with the comprehensive plan and solar ordinance and said staff must monitor conditions closely during permit review and construction. Commissioner Thompson moved to find CUP 2‑22 in "substantial accord," and the motion passed unanimously on a roll‑call vote. The formal CUP public hearing was scheduled for May 4, 2023.