Improving Project Design

DESRI is proposing to improve the project’s original design plan by making modifications that will reduce the project’s land usage, without increasing any potential environmental impacts.

For example, the amendment proposes to replace hip-height hanging transmission lines with overhead and underground transmission lines that are more suitable for a solar project of this size. DESRI has filed an amendment [hyperlink to PSC amendment link] to the New York Department of Public Service for this minor design modification, and expects a decision by early 2023.

The modifications will maintain – and in some cases, reduce – potential impacts to the community, wildlife and cultural resources, as compared with earlier designs. Some of the benefits include:

Reduced land usage, thanks to the updated technology selection for the panels: 51 acre (14%) reduction in paneled area from 398 aces to 347 acres
Improved efficiency so the solar project can deliver more clean energy.

Figure 1. Facility Layout Comparison

Graphic shows the difference between earlier iterations of hip-height hanging transmission lines and the overhead and underground transmission lines we’re now proposing..

Figure 2. Amendment Layout PV Panel Arrays

The proposed amended layout will reduce land usage, thanks to the updated technology selection for the panels: 51 acre (14%) reduction in paneled area, from 398 aces to 347 acres.

Figure 5a. Overhead Collection Line Viewshed Analysis - 5-Mile Visual Study Area and Figure 7. Access Road Layout Comparison Graphic shows the viewshed analysis performed by the project for the proposed amendment facility design.