LCDC directed by Legislature to Adopt Rules for Solar Siting in Eastern Oregon
Seeks Rules Advisory Committee Members
Improving access to renewable energy is important for the future of our state and nation. Oregon is fortunate to have a reliable solar resource, which is even stronger on the east side of the Cascade Mountain Range. Advances in technology are allowing commercial photovoltaic solar facilities to deliver clean electricity to the grid at more affordable price points.
With this in mind, the 2023 Oregon Legislative Assembly passed House Bill 3409. Section 35.(2) of this bill directs the Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) to consider and adopt administrative rules for the purpose “Finding Opportunity and Reducing Conflict in Siting Photovoltaic Solar Power Generation Facilities.” The bill focuses attention on Eastern Oregon, requires consideration of a variety of natural resource and community values, promotes consultation with Tribal, State and Local governments, and requires the appointment of a diverse Rules Advisory Committee (RAC).
The best possible outcome of this rulemaking effort would include identifying sites that support development of photovoltaic solar projects that do not unnecessarily encroach upon other resources treasured by Oregonians. Areas of cultural significance and wildlife habitat, as well as important areas for commercial farming, ranching and forest activities are a few examples of important resource values. The next step would be to encourage development of identified sites with projects that will help meet Oregon’s clean energy goals.
The RAC will assist the department in developing recommendations that will be presented to LCDC in late 2024 and early 2025.
The Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) is currently accepting applications from interested Oregonians to serve on this RAC. DLCD also anticipates appointing one or more Technical Advisory Committees (TACs). Applications will be accepted through midnight, January 2, 2024.
RAC Meetings
DLCD expects the RAC will meet seven to nine times between late January 2024 and December 2024. While every effort will be made to offer virtual meeting options, in person attendance is desired in most instances. Meetings will occur at different locations in Eastern Oregon and are expected to include about three hours of facilitated time. Some meetings will also offer tours of energy facilities and sites, as well as other relevant items. Accommodation will be made as necessary to ensure RAC members can participate in tour activities.
RAC members who would find it easier to participate with financial support may be reimbursed for their time. Community members will be able to view RAC meetings in person or online and are welcome to email comments to staff throughout the rulemaking process. RAC and TAC meeting summaries will be made available on this page. LCDC will hold a public hearing when staff presents a the RAC’s recommended draft for consideration.
TAC Meetings
Applicants who are selected to serve on the TAC(s) will be notified in early January 2024. DLCD staff anticipate TAC meetings will occur remotely on a monthly basis between RAC meetings as needed. RAC members may also serve as TAC members.
Get Involved
If you or someone you know is interested in participating in this important work, there are three options: (1) apply to be a RAC member, (2) apply to be a TAC member (or both!) and (3) provide written comments.
Questions about the RAC or TAC or general questions about the project? Contact Jon Jinings at jon.jinings@dlcd.oregon.gov
Stay informed! Sign up for GovDelivery notifications on this topic. Information, meeting schedules, agendas, and meeting materials will also be published on the DLCD website as it becomes available.
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