WORKSHOP ITEM Bryan Schafer, Community Development Director
Title
CONNEXUS/NSC SOLAR FARM
Background
Connexus Energy and the National Sports Center have been working on a potential solar energy farm for the former Herbst landfill (just south and east of the Sanctuary development-see map). The National Sports Center has owned the 40 acre parcel for many years and has floated many different land use proposals for use of the land. This proposal would seem to have the most long lasting value to the NSC as well as likely create the least amount of off-site impact to the area residents. Under this proposal Connexus would make long term land lease payments to the NSC.
The solar farm would include a large field of solar panels on the top of the hill with a energy storage facility (building with large capacity batteries) on the east side, towards Flanders Street, to release the electricity later in the afternoon and evening when community energy use hits peak demand. The area would be fenced and would be served by access from Flanders Street, though it would only generate a few weekly trips for maintenance.
Attached to this cover memo is a narrative and concept plan from Connexus that outlines their proposal. A representative from Connexus will be present to discuss their proposal and answer any questions.
From a site plan standpoint we would need to see more details regarding landscape screening from the Sanctuary homes that are adjacent and what the appropriate setback should be for the fence that surrounds the array field.
Recommendation
Provide direction to staff and Connexus as to whether this proposal has merit and should be explored further in terms of process, public notice and involvement, building type and appearance as well as other site plan review details.
Attachments
Area Map
Narrative/Summary Slides
Development Concept