South Branch Solar 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. Vegetative screening will be implemented at various locations to enhance the visual appeal of the site.

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 combined and transformed to the electrical grid’s voltage at the project substation, where it connects to the utility’s system and is sold to the market.

No. Photovoltaic modules are designed to absorb sunlight, not reflect it. The amount of sunlight the modules absorb correlates directly to the amount of electricity produced, thus modules are designed to absorb maximum amounts of sunlight and minimize reflection. In fact, typical solar module glass is constructed with anti-reflective coatings. Solar facilities produce minimal noise as they do not contain large mechanical components. We design our facilities so that any increase in noise from operation is negligible at neighboring properties.

The renewable facility permitting process in Ohio is run through the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB). All new solar facilities with a generating capacity of 50 MW or more must obtain a certificate from the OPSB. The permit application for South Branch will be filed in June 2021 and an OPSB public hearing will follow later in the process. As part of the permitting application South Branch Solar will be required to submit a number of studies regarding the project including an economic impact assessment, noise assessment, and wetland and archeological assessments.

The average life of a solar facility is approximately 30-40 years.

South Branch Solar will be responsible for maintaining the property. We work diligently with consultants and local stakeholders to ensure proper ground cover, erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management occurs on the site. We also implement vegetation management plans and construction best management practices to promote the establishment of native vegetation and manage overgrowth and invasive plant species.

At the end of the life of the Project, South Branch Solar will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site to its original use. As part of the permitting process, the OPSB will review South Branch’s proposed decommissioning plan to ensure ample consideration and funding are secured.

The Project will bring a large direct investment to the community including significant property taxes, and provide more clean energy to Ohio. Construction of the solar park will also bring approximately 500 new employment opportunities, 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 the life of the Project, it will not burden Hancock County services and utilities.