The Issue
Unlike our neighbors in Sonoma, Solano, and Marin counties, Napa County did not have a renewable-energy ordinance. Absent such an ordinance, commercial renewable energy developers eyed Napa's beautiful watershed as a "sitting duck" to locate vast renewable-energy projects. One such developer brought one such project to Napa in mid-2018, proposing a location in east Napa on a residential parcel. The project involved 18 acres of solar panels necessitating the removal of three acres of mature oak trees.
This proposal woke up residents to the realization that the lack of an ordinance could impact our AG Watershed and AG Preserve significantly if commercial projects with acres of solar panels were to proliferate.
What We're Doing
Napa Valley Citizens for Smart Planning was formed and with unparalleled support, guidance, and resources provided by Napa Vision 2050, forced the withdrawal of the Palm Drive Solar Project. Then this group helped develop and support the drafting and passing (January 2020) of a renewable-energy ordinance for Napa County, thereby continuing to protect and preserve Napa's AG Watershed and Preserve.
Our Vision
We want to build a future with renewable energy that does not undermine the integrity and the beauty of our natural world.