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Dominion Energy’s Laurel Branch solar project and switchyard found substantially in accord with county plan
Summary
On April 6 the Planning Commission unanimously determined that Dominion Energy’s 80 MW Laurel Branch Solar (CUP 2-22) and its associated 465.62‑acre switchyard (CUP 6-22) meet the requirements of the Lunenburg–Kenbridge–Victoria Comprehensive Plan, while commissioners emphasized monitoring for water protection, erosion control and screening.
The Lunenburg County Planning Commission on April 6 unanimously found Dominion Energy’s Laurel Branch Solar proposal (CUP-2-22) and a separate switchyard/substation application (CUP-6-22) to be "in substantial accord" with the Lunenburg–Kenbridge–Victoria Comprehensive Plan.
Robin Lucey, Dominion Energy’s development manager for the project, described the 2232 report conclusions, Dominion’s role, and how the proposal addresses special policy areas including protection of water sources and loss of agricultural land. The solar project is proposed as an 80-megawatt facility spanning 26 parcels and approximately 2,378 acres southwest of Kenbridge; the related switchyard was listed as 465.62 acres at 464 Laurel Branch Road. Lucey said the switchyard application is separate because the switchyard would remain as infrastructure after any future decommissioning of solar arrays.
Commissioners asked for clearer site-plan detail demonstrating how the application specifically aligns with the Comprehensive Plan and pressed the applicant on screening and buffer commitments. Commissioner Trent acknowledged the project's large scale but noted "it is a big project, but only about 700 acres in the project. There are lots of little pieces, so it is not as bad." Commissioner Shell emphasized erosion-control measures, noting a recommendation of one sediment pond or basin per 25 acres to address runoff and stabilization.
Public comment lists showed mixed views: several speakers and written commenters supported the project, while others voiced opposition and concerns about water, wells and visual impacts. After a staff report from Lindsay Edwards of the Berkley Group, motions to deem both CUP-2-22 and CUP-6-22 in substantial accord passed by roll call, with commissioners saying permit review will require close monitoring of water resources, erosion controls and compliance with the county’s solar ordinance.
The commission scheduled the conditional use permit hearings and indicated staff would attach conditions addressing water protection, buffers, screening and monitoring as part of the permit review process.
