Grass Valley Solar

The ultimate goal is to have a positive environmental impact overall. LRE prepares with careful project design, equipment choice and management plans for all aspects of the project. The financing and permitting process requires extensive due diligence to reduce risks. The industry is continually improving technology and management best practices. LRE has a company culture that focuses on reducing risks and increasing safety, as it wants to be a good, long-term neighbor and contributor to the community. In addition, LRE is committed to land stewardship and delivers emission-free energy. 

The project design will consider wildlife- and/or livestock-friendly fences and best practices. This will be informed by input from local ranchers and wildlife advocates and balanced with project safety requirements. LRE is considering free movement at several intersecting corners of the project site across BLM land. In addition, land stewardship options are being evaluated.

The Grass Valley Solar project will be responsible for maintaining their solar facility properties. 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.

Solar panel technology has advanced significantly in recent years. LRE typically uses thin-film solar 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.

The average life of a solar facility is approximately 30 to 40 years, but with proper maintenance, it can last longer. Many projects may also be “repowered” to extend the productive life of the project. This includes upgrading existing components to improve performance or increase capacity, which requires additional reviews and permits. At the end of the life of the project, the Grass Valley Solar project will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site.

This project represents significant financial investment and will generate economic development and employment opportunities, as well as funding for public services through tax revenues. The majority of the job opportunities will be during the construction phase, which will contribute to an increase in purchases of local goods and services by the workforce. There will be an increase in traffic, water use to control dust, and noise onsite during certain periods of construction. Once operational, the site typically will have limited activity and require minimal public resources while generating a local source of emission free energy.