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Virginia Administrative Code
Title 4. Conservation And Natural Resources
Agency 25. Department of Energy
Chapter 170. Geothermal Energy Regulations
11/21/2024

4VAC25-170-90. Environmental protection; impacts; noise abatement.

A. In the absence of coverage by any other section of this chapter, the department shall require operations under this chapter to be conducted so as not to pollute land, water, or air. Federal and state air and water quality standards shall be followed unless more stringent requirements are stipulated by the department. More stringent requirements, if stipulated, shall be made during the permit process. Notices of such requirements will be sent to the applicant and a notice published permitting 30 days for written comments. The review of operations plans shall take into account any adverse effects on groundwaters, streams, plants, fish and wild-life wildlife populations, atmosphere, or any other effects which may cause or contribute to pollution. Should environmental conditions warrant, owners, operators, or their designated agents may be required to conduct special environmental studies or monitoring.

B. Noise output from geothermal sites shall be limited to 65 dB/A at the lease boundary or within one-half mile of the source, whichever is greater.

Statutory Authority

§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-179.6 and 45.1-179.7 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR480-04-13 § 9, eff. May 1, 1984.

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