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'Accidental' fire sparks at solar farm in Chesapeake, officials say

Investigators determined the blaze was accidental but have not released what exactly started it.
Credit: CFD

CHESAPEAKE, Va. — A fire sparked at a solar farm in southern Chesapeake late Wednesday morning, causing black smoke plumes to fill the sky.

The blaze ignited at NextEra Energy Solar Farm on Shillelagh Road at around 11:30 a.m., according to the Chesapeake Fire Department (CFD). Nearly half an hour after arriving, officials said crews brought the fire under control with "no difficulty."

No workers at the solar farm or firefighters were reported hurt.

The blaze, which was burning near the back of the farm, damaged one inverter box.

"Company representatives have isolated the damaged components and will be able to continue operations while repairs are made," CFD said.

Investigators determined the blaze was accidental but have not released what exactly started it.

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