Union ridge Solar

The Union Ridge solar facility will primarily consist of rows of photovoltaic electric generating modules mounted to steel frames that are installed on driven steel posts with central inverters spaced throughout the site. The entire perimeter of the Project site will be fenced for security and safety.

Photovoltaic (PV) modules capture energy from the sun and produce direct current (DC) electricity. The DC electricity flows to electrical inverters where it is converted to alternating current (AC) electricity. The AC electricity is then collected at a project substation, where it connects to the utility’s electrical system and is sold to market.

Solar panel technology has advanced significantly in recent years. The solar panels will be manufactured with tempered glass and anti-reflective coatings, minimizing glare. The moving mechanical parts of a solar facility produce minimal noise and are typically inaudible beyond the property boundaries based on the setbacks that are included in the facility’s design.

Before construction can begin on any major utility facility within the state of Ohio, a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need must be obtained from the OPSB. For all generation projects, except for wind, the Ohio Revised Code defines a major utility facility as an electric generating plant with a capacity of 50 MW or greater.

The OPSB process provides a forum for consideration of potential impacts associated with the Project, and potential actions to be taken to avoid or minimize any such impacts. Individuals and local government authorities can participate in the OPSB process and provide information for the OPSB to consider in its decision on the Project. Union Ridge’s OPSB application will include a review of potential impacts and will address plans to avoid and minimize those impacts.

Prior to completing the application, we will solicit feedback from the local community through mailers, our website, and public information meetings, with information obtained to be included in the OPSB application. More information on important dates in the application process can be found in the Community Outreach section.

In Ohio, individual counties are permitted to use an alternative to the standard property tax assessment on certain renewable energy projects. This alternative, known as a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT), requires the generation facility to provide fixed annual payments to the local taxing authority for the life of the facility. In addition to the benefit of a fixed revenue stream, the local community benefits from a requirement that at least 80% of the workers employed for construction and operation of a solar facility reside in Ohio. Further, in order to qualify for the PILOT, a solar facility developer must guarantee to make certain road repairs, train and equip fire and emergency personnel for responding to emergencies at the facility, and partner with a state university or apprenticeship program for training in the renewable energy industry.

The average life of a solar facility is approximately 30-40 years, but with proper maintenance, it can last longer.

Union Ridge will be responsible for maintaining the Union Ridge Solar facility property. We work diligently with consultants and local stakeholders to ensure proper ground cover, erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management. We also implement vegetation management plans and best management practices to promote the establishment of native vegetation and the proper mitigation of overgrowth and invasive plant species. As part of the development process, the OPSB will review and approve our vegetation management plan.

Safety is our number one priority. We manage our projects with the utmost regard for safety, sustainability, and long-term impacts. Extensive employee and contractor training are required to meet our safety program standards, and our entire team, starting with our executives, makes a daily commitment to a safe work environment.

As part of the Project’s OPSB application, Union Ridge will submit a preliminary plan for review that will address proposed safety measures. Union Ridge’s design will include setbacks for safety, access roads sized to accommodate emergency management vehicles, and sufficient turnaround space for these vehicles. As an added safety precaution, an Emergency Response Action Plan (ERAP) will be shared with local authorities.

Through careful engineering design and strict adherence to safety standards, solar projects pose a minimal health and safety risk.

At the end of the life of the Project, Union Ridge will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site to its original use. As part of the OPSB review process, staff will review Union Ridge’s proposed decommissioning plan to ensure that ample consideration and protections will be provided.

Construction will bring new employment opportunities, a large direct investment in the community, and local business generated from the purchase of food, fuel, accommodations, and other local supplies. During the construction period there will be a relatively short-term increase in traffic volume and noise, typical of similar projects.

Once the Project is operational, daily traffic to and from the site will be minimal. Throughout its life, the Project will not burden Licking County services and utilities; however, it will contribute substantial revenue to local tax authority and provide clean energy to the greater Ohio area.

For more detailed information about this project, please email unionridge@leewardenergy.com , or fill out the form below.