Cambria and Pendleton Negotiating Host Community Agreement After Solar Ruling

Towns end legal battle against large-scale solar projects following appellate court decision.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:48am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a collection of sleek, geometric solar panels and battery storage units arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the balance between renewable energy development and local community priorities.As local communities negotiate the terms for new solar projects, the visual symbolism of clean, modern energy infrastructure reflects the complex balance of economic development and environmental concerns.Cambria Today

After a recent appellate court ruling in favor of Cypress Creek Renewables, Cambria Supervisor Matt Foe said the town's fight against large-scale solar projects has come to an end. Cambria and the neighboring town of Pendleton are now negotiating a host community agreement to govern the development of solar farms in their areas.

Why it matters

The appellate court ruling marks the end of a long legal battle between local towns and renewable energy developers over the siting of large solar projects. This clears the way for more solar development in the region, but also raises questions about how local communities can shape the terms of these projects to address their concerns.

The details

The appellate court decision sided with Cypress Creek Renewables, a major solar developer, which had sued Cambria over its restrictions on solar farm construction. With the legal fight over, Cambria and Pendleton are now working to negotiate a host community agreement that will outline the terms for solar projects in their areas, including issues like land use, tax revenue sharing, and environmental protections.

  • The appellate court ruling was issued in March 2026.
  • Cambria and Pendleton began negotiating the host community agreement in April 2026.

The players

Cypress Creek Renewables

A major solar energy development company that sued Cambria over its restrictions on solar projects.

Matt Foe

The Supervisor of Cambria, California.

Pendleton

A town neighboring Cambria that is also negotiating the host community agreement.

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What they’re saying

“The appellate court ruling marks the end of our fight against large-scale solar projects. Now we're focused on negotiating the best possible terms for our community.”

— Matt Foe, Cambria Supervisor

What’s next

Cambria and Pendleton aim to finalize the host community agreement by June 2026 before any new solar projects are approved.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between local communities and renewable energy developers, and the importance of negotiating community benefits agreements to balance economic development with local concerns over land use, environment, and quality of life.