Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-20 Applicant Response to Comments 0807201. Would Torch be willing to add as a condition to the CUP that they will consult with an extension agent of Frederick County and/or an Arborist regarding what trees/shrubs would grow well in the soil along residential properties on the Marlboro Road side of the project. Additionally, would Torch be willing to take these recommendations and meet with property owners on lots 40-43 to find common ground on what would be planted to assist in maintaining property values and visual aesthetics? We are happy to consult with a local expert to inform our plant selection. It is in our interest to select the right plants that will thrive and not require re-planting. We already intended to consult with a local expert and are open to this being added to the CUP. 2. Has there been a study performed or is there a known increase in temperatures for adjoining property owners of solar facilities and if so, would Torch provide any results of testing or data to support their response? The Project will not affect the temperature on any neighboring properties. Although the temperature between rows of panels will be slightly higher during the day, this difference will have dissipated at the property line, where vegetation is being added in many places. Any temperature change would be less than results from a parking lot or suburban development. 3. Would the site produce any noise post construction, would there be lightning that would be on continuously, and, is there any known secondary health issues as a result of being an adjoining property owner/resident. There would be no continuous lighting during the operations phase and the only audible noise would from the maintenance vehicles (1-2 small vehicles every few weeks). The noise during the operations phase would be less than the current agricultural use. 4. Would Torch provide a list of components that their panels are built of and, any environmental studies that have been performed regarding the gradual deterioration of the panels as they age. In terms of the panel’s deterioration over time, most leading panel manufacturers provide at least a 25-year warranty with the production expected to be at 85% after 25 years. Torch has used crystalline silicon panels in of our projects and plan on using them for Bartonsville. This report from NC State provides a good overview of these modules in Section 1.2.2. To be clear, these panels contain no liquid, cannot leach anything into the soil, and will not affect the ground or soil (even if a panel was crushed or broken). The Project will also require a permit from the Dept. of Environmental Quality which will examine the design of the project and any effects on environmental or cultural resources. 5. Please ask for how the decision was made regarding the berm height discussed with several individuals adjoining Marlboro Road. Please inform Torch that failure to provide adequate berm height (7-8 feet) will likely significantly decrease support from some elected representatives and cause severe strain with community relations. Torch is amending the Concept Plan to show a 7 foot berm along part of the boundary with the Brackenfern Lane properties. 6. Please asked that any representatives from Torch or, any contractors therein refrain from crossing property owners lands with the exception of where Torch presently has expressed written permission. This may have already occurred and is causing concern with some residents. All consultants have been briefed on the project area where the studies are to take place. Please contact the County in case of any improper property crossing.