Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Department of Environmental Quality intends to consider promulgating the following regulations: 9VAC15-50, Small Renewable Offshore Wind Energy Projects Permit Regulation. The purpose of the proposed action is to establish a permit by rule for small offshore wind renewable energy projects, including whether offshore and coastal wind projects are likely to have a significant adverse impact on natural resources; and, if so, then how the department might address potential environmental impacts, mitigation plans, facility site planning, public participation, permit fees, interagency consultations, compliance, enforcement, and other topics that may be brought up during the public comment period.

The agency does not intend to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 10.1-1197.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: September 1, 2010.

Agency Contact: Carol C. Wampler, Department of Environmental Quality, 629 East Main Street, P.O. Box 1105, Richmond, VA 23218, telephone (804) 698-4579, FAX (804) 698-4346, or email carol.wampler@deq.virginia.gov.