This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to clarify that solar generation facilities are not considered part of agricultural operations for appraisal and agricultural production purposes. Specifically, it states that the development, operation, or ownership of a solar generation facility does not qualify as farming, regardless of the height of the solar panels. The bill also specifies that any land used for solar generation to produce electricity commercially, or for purposes other than supporting a farm residence or agricultural activities, will not be classified as farm property. However, a farm will retain its classification as agricultural property if solar panels are installed solely on buildings used for farming.

Additionally, the bill modifies the definitions related to agriculture and agricultural operations to explicitly exclude solar generation facilities. It emphasizes that agricultural operations do not include activities related to solar energy production, ensuring that such facilities are treated separately from traditional farming practices. The intent of the bill is to provide clarity on the status of solar generation facilities in relation to agricultural property appraisal and operations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-1A-10, 19-19-2
Committee Substitute: 11-1A-10, 19-19-2