US developer Apex Clean Energy’s plan to build Virginia’s first wind farm has cleared its first permitting hurdle.
The five-member Botetourt County Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the 75MW Rocky Forge proposal at a public hearing this week.
The decision allows the project to proceed to the next stage, a Board of Supervisors public hearing on 26 January, said Apex development manager Charlie Johnson.
“This is the first step in securing the first wind farm in the state of Virginia,” said Johnson. “The unanimous vote was a result of everyone’s continuous support for renewable energy.”
Apex proposes to erect up to 25 turbines on a ridge-top site, located near existing transmission lines operated by Dominion Power.
The Charlottesville-based developer also intends to apply to the state Department of Environmental Quality for a ‘permit by rule’ for the project. In addition, Apex has requested clearance from the Federal Aviation Authority.
The proponent aims to commission Rocky Forge in 2017.
Image: Apex plans to build up to 25 turbines (sxc)
