Question 1

How will the project impact farmland and local agriculture?

Accepted Answer

Solar development and traditional agriculture can co-exist side-by-side and increasingly are found together. Responsible solar development provides benefits to both agriculture and ecosystems by improving soil health, retaining water, nurturing native species, and supporting native pollinators which support local food production. Additionally, at the end of its useful life the project will be decommissioned, and the land will be available for all future potential uses, including traditional agriculture.

Question 2

Are solar panels safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes!  Solar technology has been used far and wide since the 1950s and modern solar technology is safe for use on residential homes, schools, and undeveloped land. There is a very low risk of fire or emergency situations at large-scale solar facilities, and solar panel components do not pose any risk to the surrounding environment, soil or water. Safety is a number one priority for Horizon Solar, and there will be close coordination with local emergency responders as the Project advances.

Question 3

Are property values impacted by this facility?

Accepted Answer

Studies show large-scale solar power facilities do not decrease residential property resale values and economically benefit local communities. The increase in tax revenues generated by a solar project typically lead to more funding for local services like schools, roads, and emergency services. Additionally, homeowners often view the solar facility as a safe and quiet neighbor.

Question 4

How does the Project plan to address visibility?

Accepted Answer

Horizon Solar plans to preserve all existing trees and vegetation, to the extent possible, along adjacent public roadways as a natural buffer between the Project and public viewshed. The Project team will also develop a vegetative screening plan that includes new landscape plantings, farm-style fencing, and natural vegetation to minimize project visibility from roads and nearby residences.

Question 5

How is the solar project taxed?

Accepted Answer

Solar facilities in North Carolina are taxed at the County level. The Horizon Solar Project is estimated to add more than $10.5 million ($300,000 annually on average) in new tax revenues for Warren County throughout the project’s 35-year operating life.

Question 6

Where will the power generated from the project go?

Accepted Answer

Power from Horizon Solar will be delivered into the North Carolina electric grid, helping to diversify the state’s energy portfolio. Power generated by the Project will be used both locally and transmitted to where it is needed, based on demand.

Question 7

What will this do to local wildlife?

Accepted Answer

Impacts on local wildlife are expected to be minimal. State certified third party environmental experts have assessed the Project footprint by conducting site-specific studies to understand and mitigate potential impacts on wildlife. The Project will comply with all state and federal wildlife regulations, including any requirements of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Small, local wildlife will be able to come and go through wildlife-friendly fencing, including rabbits and other small mammals, turtles and small reptiles. The Project fencing will be set back from public roadways, and larger animals, such as deer, will be able to safely travel around the Project area.

Question 8

What happens to solar panels at the end of their life?

Accepted Answer

At the end of the Project’s useful life (35-40 years on average), panels and other project equipment will be removed and recycled. Up to 90% of the materials used in panels like glass and aluminum, are recyclable, as well as the steel racking underneath. Horizon Solar will provide a detailed decommissioning plan to Warren County as part of the local permitting process.

Question 9

How does TED Renewables develop solar projects with environmental justice in mind?

Accepted Answer

TED Renewables is proud of our thoughtful development strategy. We prioritize human and environmental health through our design standards. We aim to involve the community as a key stakeholder to minimize any potential burdens and to ensure that economic, infrastructure, and environmental benefits are delivered to Warren County.

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