State Permitting

In order to comply with state requirements, Hermes Solar will obtain an environmental permit from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). As part of the permit process, the impact on threatened and endangered species is evaluated and mitigation plans, if needed, are developed. Review with department of historical

Vegetation

The design of the proposed project includes landscaping and buffers which will screen the project from view and further help maintain the existing character of the area. Our development process includes an evaluation of the existing vegetation, in conformance with the Tazewell County land development code, and will pursue opportunities to establish ground cover with native species. In addition, pollinator mixes will be planted in parts of the project to increase biodiversity on site.

Clean Energy for Tazewell County

About Hermes Solar

Hermes Solar is a responsible, environmentally-sound solar and storage project in Tazewell County. The 70MW project will be located on industrial and agriculturally zoned land, with acres of important features including vegetative buffers, setbacks, pollinator plantings, and protected natural resources. The electricity produced will help supply the ever-increasing demand for power locally and across the state of Virginia.

Currently, Hermes Solar is in the development stages. We are securing the necessary legal and environmental permits to safely and responsibly develop the project.

Project Timeline

Planning

Permitting

Engineering

Construction

Operation

2026

2027

2028

Hermes Map

Hermes Solar

FAQs

Is solar safe?
Unequivocally yes. Solar panels are designed and tested to withstand a range of environmental conditions. They are also designed to prevent any metals or resources from leaking into the ground or water.
Will the solar project cause glare?
The project has commissioned a Glint and Glare Study which identified no impacts to nearby residential properties or traffic with proposed buffers. The project also received a Determination of No Hazard to Air Navigation from the Federal Aviation Association.
Where will the project be located?
It will be located on a mix of Industrially and Agriculturally zoned property in Whites Store, Tazewell County
What will happen to the project after its useful lifetime?
The project will be decommissioned by representatives of Hermes Solar. Valuable components will be resold and remaining equipment will be recycled. Hermes has proposed a decommissioning plan to the County and will post a security bond to ensure proper and timely project removal.