On Nov. 19 the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council agreed to extend the statutory review deadline for the Hop Hill solar application to Dec. 22, 2026 and asked staff to analyze whether the applicant’s proposed addition of 2,900 acres would trigger another land-use consistency hearing.

John Barnes, FSEC staff, said the application is pending a full cultural resource report and related supplemental materials tied to an expansion; the applicant requested a one-year extension to allow time for the additional submissions. Staff recommended the 12‑month extension to allow the applicant to complete work needed for a full SEPA review and determination.

Councilors debated the level of detail in the applicant’s extension letter. Paul Crouppen said the letter lacked specifics he needed to make an informed choice; other members noted similar points about land‑use determinations and environmental-study progress. Counsel and staff explained that extension letters routinely contain broadly scoped reasons and that denial is rare, but that an amended application would trigger a re‑examination of thresholds and possible additional hearings.

Councilor Pamplin moved to extend the deadline to Dec. 22, 2026 and direct staff to analyze whether the additional 2,900 acres require a subsequent land-use consistency hearing; the motion was seconded and carried. The transcript records the chair abstaining and two abstentions overall.

Next steps: staff will accept and review any amended application when filed, analyze if additional hearings are required for the added acreage, and report back to the council.