The Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) of Riverside County convened on June 12, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding solar panel installations and their potential glare impacts on aviation safety. The meeting focused on the ongoing review of solar projects in relation to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) policies and the cumulative glare effects on flight operations, particularly near March Air Reserve Base.

The session began with a presentation on the implications of solar glare for pilots, emphasizing the FAA's interim policy established in 2013, which mandates the review of glare impacts on control towers and pilots during final approach. The commission reiterated its commitment to reviewing all solar projects in Zone C or higher, ensuring that glare levels remain at a safe "green" level, as indicated by FAA guidelines.

A significant point of discussion was the cumulative glare study conducted for the March Air Reserve Base. This study assessed the potential glare from 26 rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) projects in the area, aiming to quantify how these installations might affect flight operations. While individual projects were deemed to have slight or no impact, the base expressed concerns about the cumulative effects as the number of solar installations increases. The base recommended that developers consider using dual-axis panels, which have a lower potential for glare compared to fixed-mount systems.

The commission acknowledged the findings of the cumulative glare study, which indicated that while the intensity of glare from multiple sources does not combine to create a higher hazard level, the likelihood of glare intersecting with flight paths increases as more projects are developed. This highlights the need for careful planning and adherence to safety recommendations to mitigate glare risks.

As the meeting progressed, staff sought direction from the commission regarding future actions and recommendations based on the cumulative glare study. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing renewable energy development with aviation safety, ensuring that all solar projects undergo thorough scrutiny to protect pilots and air traffic operations.

In conclusion, the ALUC's meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to address the challenges posed by solar glare in aviation contexts, reaffirming the commission's role in safeguarding air travel while promoting sustainable energy initiatives. Further deliberations and decisions are expected as the commission continues to navigate these complex issues.