SIMMER SOLAR PROJECT OVERVIEW
Size
80 MWac of PV Energy expected to cover approximately 248 acres (as calculated per County guidelines) across two parcels.
Location
Brunswick County, Virginia. The power will be transmitted to the 115kv Danieltown-Brunswick 115kV line (Dominion).
Power generation
Project will produce enough energy to power approximately 14,000 homes.
Environmental Benefits
Approximately 124,394 metric tons of CO2 offset per year.
Economic Benefits
120 temporary jobs created, leading to increased revenue for local businesses with a total of $5.2M in revenue for Brunswick County over project’s lifetime.
Project Life
The lifespan of Simmer Solar is projected to be 35 years.
SIMMER SOLAR PROPOSED PROJECT TIMELINE
Spring 2028 proposed start of construction (contingent on PJM schedule).
SIMMER SOLAR PROPOSED PROJECT - PARCEL MAP
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do solar panels impact human health?
Solar panels do not negatively impact human health. During manufacturing, solar panels go through rigorous quality control measures to guarantee proper and safe function. In addition, solar panels do not produce any toxic emissions during operations.
How does the weather impact solar energy production?
Weather events, such as cloud cover are important factors to consider when designing a new solar energy power plant. As part of the design process, factors such as panel technology and racking placement account for local weather to optimize the megawatt output.
How will wildlife in the area be impacted?
Simmer Solar conducted wildlife reports for the area and designed the project to be cognizant of the local wildlife. The wetlands and streams on site form a natural wildlife corridor, and they will remain as interior corridors for wildlife utilization. In addition, solar seed mixes will be used as part of the project vegetation.
How long will the project be in operation for?
Simmer Solar will be operational for 35 years, with the potential to be repowered as solar module technology evolves.
Can solar panels be recycled?
Yes, solar panels can be recycled. When the project is at the end of its life, all components will be properly handled through a decommissioning plan. Simmer Solar includes recycling of materials, such as concrete and steel, in its decommissioning plan.
Is the project permitted?
Simmer Solar continues on the path to full permitting with Brunswick County, VA. As of March 2026, the project has passed the 2232 process. In June 2026, the project is holding a Neighborhood Meeting to share information in an open house setting. For the final step in the Conditional Use Permit Process, a county hearing will be held, the scheduling of which is still to be determined with county representatives.
Will the solar panels cause glare?
Solar panels are designed with dark coatings to avoid reflective properties and reduce glare, which increases the absorption of energy from the sun.
Will the project impact nearby property values?
Available data does not show consistent negative impacts to nearby property values, particularly when projects are properly sited, screened, and maintained. Brunswick County has taken proactive steps to protect community interests. The Brunswick County Solar Ordinance and Siting Agreement require setbacks, screening, and visual buffers that help minimize impacts and maintain compatibility with surrounding properties.