Conditional Use Permit No. 25-04 (Rex Solaire Solar and Storage Project)

The Rex Solaire Solar and Storage Project, under Conditional Use Permit No. 25-04, involves the construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning of a utility-scale photovoltaic solar power generation and energy storage facility in Kings County, California. Located east of Interstate 5 and south of Utica Avenue, the project scope has expanded from 18,381 acres to approximately 20,600 acres. The facility is designed to feature tracking solar PV panel arrays with a nominal output of up to 2,800 MW AC and battery energy storage capacity of up to 11,200 GWh. Supporting infrastructure includes project substations, an underground collection system, a gen-tie line connecting to Pacific Gas and Electric switchyards, telecommunication facilities, and an operations and maintenance facility. The project is subject to comprehensive environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act, with the Kings County Community Development Agency serving as the lead agency. Key regulatory considerations include the protection of fish and wildlife resources, the preservation of agricultural land and Williamson Act contracts, and mandatory consultation with Native American tribes regarding cultural resources. Compliance requirements include adherence to the California Building Code, Kings County Building Code, and NFPA standards for fire and life safety. Oversight for the project includes the Kings County Building Official for inspections and the Kings County Environmental Health Services for onsite wastewater treatment systems.