This bill aims to facilitate the siting of distributed energy generation resources on agricultural lands while ensuring that such developments do not interfere with agricultural production. It amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to include new categories of clean energy facilities, such as agrivoltaic facilities and pivot corner facilities, which are designed to coexist with agricultural activities. Specifically, the bill introduces the definition of a "pivot corner facility" as a ground-mounted solar energy system located on noncultivated land adjacent to irrigated cropland, emphasizing that these facilities must not involve the sale of water rights associated with the land. Additionally, it expands the list of distributed energy priorities to include these new facility types, thereby promoting renewable energy while protecting agricultural land use.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing regulations regarding agricultural lands of long-term commercial significance, allowing for innovative zoning techniques that support both agricultural and non-agricultural uses, including solar energy production. It specifies that accessory uses must not interfere with agricultural operations and introduces provisions for solar energy facilities that align with agricultural practices. The legislation also mandates that counties revise their regulations to ensure consistency with the new definitions and provisions by a specified deadline. Overall, the bill seeks to balance the growth of renewable energy infrastructure with the preservation of agricultural land and practices.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.21F.100, 36.70A.177, 36.70A.060