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: 9VAC15-60, Small Solar Renewable Energy Projects Permit Regulation. The purpose of the proposed action is to implement 2009 state legislation requiring the Department of Environmental Quality to develop one or more permits by rule for solar energy projects with rated capacity not exceeding 100 megawatts if the department determines that a permit by rule is necessary. The permit by rule will include conditions and standards necessary to protect the Commonwealth's natural resources.

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.