The proposed bill, General Assembly Proposed Bill No. 6223, aims to enhance source water protection in the state by amending existing statutes. It mandates that the Siting Council notify water utilities regarding applications for solar photovoltaic installations and other renewable energy facilities, ensuring that the potential impacts on watershed lands and public water supplies are considered. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to establish riparian buffers, which will help regulate development in river corridors and floodplains, thereby safeguarding water resources from contamination.

The bill reflects a commitment to preserving water quality and sources within the state, addressing the need for careful oversight of renewable energy projects and their effects on vital water supplies. By incorporating these new requirements, the legislation seeks to balance the growth of renewable energy with the protection of essential water resources.