Solar developer appeals Pennsylvania order halting construction over stormwater concerns

Clermont Solar LLC has filed an appeal with the Pennsylvania Environmental Hearing Board challenging a field order issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection that halted most construction activities at its 681-acre Ridgeway Solar Site in Wilcox, Pennsylvania.

The March 9 order directed the company to cease all earth disturbance activities except those necessary to maintain stormwater best management practices (BMPs). The site, which is approximately 80% complete, operates under a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit requiring erosion and sediment controls to manage stormwater discharges to nearby waterways.

In its appeal, Clermont argues that unusually severe winter conditions—including heavy snowpack, frozen ground and rapid thaw—generated extreme runoff that overwhelmed even properly designed and approved stormwater controls. The company also contends it was not given adequate notice or opportunity to address post-winter conditions before the order was issued.

Since the shutdown, Clermont states it has taken corrective actions, including repairing and upgrading BMPs, improving drainage infrastructure and addressing issues at stormwater basins. However, PDEP has required additional work and third-party verification before lifting the order.