In a recent government meeting, a motion was made to grant preliminary site plan approval for a solar installation project on Morgneck Road, proposed by Urban Grid. The approval is contingent upon several conditions, including the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration's approval of the facility entrance, a finalized irrigation plan that complies with local land use ordinances, and the establishment of a landscape maintenance agreement.
The motion also requires the approval and recordation of a deed for a forest conservation easement, as well as the submission and approval of erosion and sediment control plans, stormwater management plans, and sureties related to these aspects. Additionally, the applicant must secure all necessary state and federal permits and provide a final plan detailing the location of a substation.
During the discussion, participants emphasized the importance of native plantings, with a proposal allowing for 90% of the plantings to be native species. There was also a suggestion to permit modifications to the height of the berms to ensure the sustainability of the plantings, which sparked a dialogue about the irrigation requirements and the specific heights outlined in the plan.
The motion received a second, and further discussions are expected as the project moves forward, highlighting the community's focus on environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance in the development of renewable energy infrastructure.