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Senators probe whether bill S.710 would affect two contentious Bennington solar projects
Summary
Committee members discussed whether two proposed Bennington solar arrays are 'standard offer' projects (which S.710 would not cover) or commercial net‑metering/market projects; the classification determines whether duplicative road and interconnection requirements apply.
Senate Finance heard questions about two controversial solar-array proposals in Bennington and whether S.710’s language would apply.
Committee members referenced prior testimony from a local resident and said the projects have produced litigation and public concern. Witnesses and senators debated whether the proposals are "standard-offer" projects (which would not be subject to the bill) or net‑metering/market-based projects. The distinction matters because S.710’s text was discussed in the context of whether it would require separate driveways and separate transmission lines for adjoining projects developed at different times.
Senators and staff said they would seek additional testimony where necessary, including from the Bennington delegation, to verify project classifications before any decision. No formal action was taken; committee staff will gather drafts and related materials for follow-up.
