Vermont H0677 regulates solar energy generation facility siting on agricultural soils and forest ecosystems.

Vermont H0677 mandates that solar energy generation facilities must avoid primary, secondary, and local importance agricultural soils and forest ecosystems. The bill requires the Public Utility Commission to consider the impact on agricultural soils and forest ecosystems when issuing a certificate of public good for such facilities. It also mandates that the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets and the Agency of Natural Resources participate in proceedings related to these facilities. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2026.

Vermont H0677 regulates solar energy generation facility siting on agricultural soils and forest ecosystems.

Vermont H0677 mandates that solar energy generation facilities must avoid primary, secondary, and local importance agricultural soils and forest ecosystems. The bill requires the Public Utility Commission to consider the impact on agricultural soils and forest ecosystems when issuing a certificate of public good for such facilities. It also mandates that the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets and the Agency of Natural Resources participate in proceedings related to these facilities. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2026.