Page 13 - North American Clean Energy November December 2019 Issue

authorization may be required from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which can trigger a series of related federal and state agency approvals. Endangered species issues often determine where and how major solar projects go forward. The Endangered Species Act has a strong set of public policies protecting these species. It is critical to determine whether such issues exist, to develop a strategy for addressing them. 8. Consider the impact on the construction. Many permitting issues impact construction. If possible, have the contractor review the permit conditions so that unintended consequences can be avoided. Mitigating potential issues that affect construction may be critical to meeting schedules and avoiding cost overruns. 9. Overseepermittingandlegal developments. Federal and state renewable energy initiatives have resulted in many new policies. Solar projects raise environmental concerns that can require more complicated permitting. It is advisable to monitor changes that can impact permitting - investigating the permitting successes or challenges of similar projects can help identify potential problems. 10. Be prepared and be flexible. During the permitting process, project design or technology changes will undoubtedly occur. During environmental surveys, for example, anticipate that there could be geographically larger, more intensive, or alternative environmental impact scenarios - your analyses will more likely remain valid when such changes occur. Solar project permitting is complex, and subject to unexpected challenges. Preparation and foresight go a long way towards avoiding unpleasant and costly surprises. Designing and following a strategic matrix will minimize delays, and help you achieve your financial and scheduling goals. Rick Haglund is Director of Business Development at TerraPro Solutions. He has provided asset due diligence for over 100 utility solar and wind projects, and multiple large-scale transmission projects throughout the United States. His expertise includes overseeing the operations of ALTA surveys, civil, environmental, aerial mapping/LIDAR, as well as due diligence surveillance, permitting, and fatal flaw analysis. TerraPro Solutions /// terraprosolutions.com Solar panel for every metal roof Sunflare’s LiteMount is a lightweight module that seamlessly integrates with every existing metal roof attachment system. A lightweight solar system, LiteMount is less than 1lb per square foot installed and withstands winds of 125mph. LiteMount is a shatterproof, glassless mounted panel and mechanically attaches with universal clamps in 3 quick steps, so it’s easy to install. Combat shading with bypass diodes at every cell. LiteMount comes with a 25-year warranty for product workmanship and power production and is UL, IEC certified. Sunflare /// www.sunflaresolar.com North American Clean Energy 13