The upcoming 2025 General Assembly session in Virginia is set to focus on a variety of environmental issues such as solar farms, data centers, cleaner waterways, flood protection, and renewable energy goals. Chris Moore, Executive Director of Chesapeake Bay Foundation Virginia, highlights the importance of meeting restoration targets, protecting communities against extreme weather, and preserving wildlife. Legislative discussions will also include amendments to the two-year budget to fund programs like the Community Flood Preparedness Fund and the Stormwater Local Assistance Fund.
Solar farm approvals in localities face challenges, with pending bills to give them the green light stalled in the previous session. State Senator David Marsden is working on a bill to balance local needs with clean power generation goals set in the Clean Economy Act. The Act’s aim to eliminate carbon emissions from power plants by 2045 and 2050 raises concerns about biomass use.
Legislators are also looking into the impact of data centers on carbon emissions and water use, with a study from the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission underway. Dominion Energy’s increasing electricity demand is attributed to data centers and electric vehicles. Efforts are being made to encourage EV adoption through funding charging stations and offering rebates. Environmentalists will be monitoring proposed legislation regarding EV sales goals and efforts to cut carbon dioxide emissions through participation in initiatives like the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.
Additionally, ongoing battles over menhaden fishing and funding for water quality programs, tree planting initiatives, and oyster and freshwater mussel restoration efforts will be key issues addressed in the upcoming legislative session. Environmentalists are advocating for increased funding for these programs to protect Virginia’s environment and economy.
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