Blackstone Chamber of Commerce Supports Approval of Rocky Ford Solar Project
Nottoway, Virginia County Courthouse
In April 2026, the Nottoway County (VA) Board of Supervisors approved the 100-MW Rocky Ford Solar Project following strong support from the local business community. The Blackstone Chamber of Commerce played a leading role in making the business case with support from Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE).
Communities across Virginia continue to look for economic development opportunities that create jobs and strengthen local finances without placing additional pressure on critical local infrastructure. For the Blackstone Chamber, the Rocky Ford Solar Project represented exactly that kind of investment, one that would generate new revenue, support local businesses, and contribute to the county’s long-term economic health.
The Blackstone Chamber helped elevate the business community’s voice throughout the zoning process. In a piece submitted to The Courier-Record, “Rocky Ford Solar Is Right Kind of Growth,” Chamber Chairman Chris Page described the project as “the right kind of growth” for Nottoway County, emphasizing its projected economic benefits and long-term value to local residents and businesses.
During the construction period alone, local economic output is estimated at $18.7 million, supporting restaurants, contractors, and services across the region. Over the project’s 40-year life span, the site is projected to generate roughly 40 times the revenue it would produce under its current use, creating a lasting source of economic value for the county.
To support the Blackstone Chamber’s efforts, CICE provided resources to the chamber’s members and local stakeholders illustrating how utility-scale solar projects can benefit host communities. CICE’s Energizing Economies Cohort Chair, Josh Bass, submitted comments to the Board of Supervisors and contributed an opinion piece, “Solar could boost local economy,” to The Courier-Record outlining the project’s broader economic ripple effects.
“That influx of activity can make a real difference by giving businesses the breathing room they need to reinvest and grow. It helps the restaurant owner replace aging kitchen equipment, the hotel upgrade rooms to stay competitive, and the barber shop bring on that extra employee," Bass wrote.
Bass’ comments were also read during a public hearing by a community member, ensuring the economic case for the project was shared directly with county leaders and residents. During the final public hearing, CICE’s Bryan Fox also spoke in support of the project and highlighted the benefits responsible solar investments can deliver.
“As head of the Blackstone Chamber of Commerce, I spend a lot of time thinking about the ‘ideal’ type of economic development for our community. We want projects that build our tax base, support our local shops, and create good jobs, all without overcrowding our classrooms or straining county services. The proposed Rocky Ford Solar Project is a rare example of a development that checks every one of those boxes,” said Page. “It’s the kind of growth that makes sense for rural Virginia.”
The Key Takeaway
The approval of the Rocky Ford Solar Project demonstrates the important role chambers can play in shaping local economic development conversations and elevating the perspectives of the members they represent. By bringing forward an economic case for clean energy and engaging in the process, the Blackstone Chamber helped secure an investment that has the potential to transform the local economy.
Other chambers and economic development organizations may look to this effort as an example of how strategic partnerships and consistent local engagement can support successful project outcomes. CICE can support chambers as they evaluate clean energy opportunities in their communities.
