There are several groups that focus on protecting Virginia’s environmental and natural resources from large-scale solar projects, especially those sited on agricultural or forested land instead of brownfields, industrial sites, or rooftops where they will do much less damage to the environment.
Alliance for the Shenandoah Valley: This environmentally-focused organization is headquartered in the town of New Market and works to protect the Valley’s rural nature, scenic beauty, clean water, and vibrant communities. Their mission is to advocate, educate, and connect people to conserve the Shenandoah’s natural resources, cultural heritage, and rural character. Learn more on their website, on their Facebook page, or email them at info@shenandoahalliance.org.
James River Association: The mission of this 50-year-old organization is to be a guardian for the James River and its watersheds, and to seek policy changes in Richmond to protect it. Since the worst days of unchecked pollution and stormwater flowing into the James, the river’s ecological health has gone from a D- to a B- but more needs to be done. Email them at info@thejamesriver.org or call at 804-788-8811.
Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC): A 501(c)3 non-profit organization that works to conserve land, strengthen rural economies, protect air and water quality, promote sustainable energy choices, and restore wildlife habitat, among other goals. Their efforts focus on nine Virginia counties: Albemarle, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Loudoun, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock. Follow their work on their website or on Facebook; email them at pec@pecva.org; or contact them at one of their three offices (Warrenton, Charlottesville, Orange).
Virginians for Responsible Energy: This group focuses mainly on environmental and economic issues that are related to wind power, but many of the issues they raise are related to solar power as well. Located in southwest Virginia (Alleghany, Botetourt, and Rockbridge Counties), their goal is to provide information to help residents, groups, and local government officials make informed decisions about alternative energy proposals and projects. Contact them on their website.
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