A bill that would allow siting by counties of larger solar and wind projects is scheduled to be voted out of the joint committee on ways and means on June 14.

The bill, HB 2329 A, provides that developers work with counties to permit larger, mid-range scale solar/wind renewable energy projects under our local land use authority. Oregon counties are currently limited by statute to permitting only smaller scale renewable energy projects; the Energy Facility Siting Council now authorizes those larger projects. This change will allow the siting process to move mid-range projects more expediently, efficiently, and at significant cost reductions. This should help the state achieve carbon reduction goals while helping local economies with expected new investments.

After the June 14 work session, the bill is expected to clear both chambers handily.

Contributed by: Megan Chuinard | Public Affairs Associate