The bill H.677 aims to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding solar energy generation facilities in Vermont, particularly concerning their impact on agricultural soils. It mandates that the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets be a required party in proceedings before the Public Utility Commission (PUC) regarding electric generation facilities. The bill also stipulates that applications for such facilities must include detailed information about the presence and impact on primary, secondary, and local importance agricultural soils. Additionally, it establishes that the preclusion of farming on more than five acres of these soils will be considered an undue burden.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement for a full-spectrum audit of energy payback time and carbon dioxide emissions for solar energy generation facilities, to be conducted by a Vermont-licensed engineering firm at the applicant's expense. This audit will encompass various factors, including resource extraction and the environmental impacts of construction. The PUC must ensure that any facility will not adversely affect aesthetics, public health, or agricultural productivity, particularly concerning the preservation of agricultural soils and forest ecosystems. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 30-248