Optimizing Solar Facility Configuration Effects on Habitat, Managed Plants, and Essential Species Interactions
Summary
SCH Number
2016078075
Public Agency
California Energy Commission
Document Title
Optimizing Solar Facility Configuration Effects on Habitat, Managed Plants, and Essential Species Interactions
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
7/7/2016
Document Description
This project will assess the efforts of microsite conditions created by solar facility infrastructure on native and invasive species, an insect of concern, and essential plant, insect, and bird interactions. By informing facility design elements and mitigation methods, this research will reduce barriers to renewable energy system construction and operation. This agreement will result in the ratepayer benefit of lower costs by reducing environmental mitigation costs. The project will use field experiments and statistical models to assess how plants and animals respond to habitat medication within and adjacent to solar energy facilities in the California Deserts. Researchers will collect field data on plants and insects. Small, temporary panels will be installed to simulate shading by solar panels.
Contact Information
Name
Timothy Smith
Agency Name
California Energy Commission
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Location
Cities
Santa Cruz
Counties
Santa Cruz
Other Information
1156 High Street
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
S:15306
Reasons for Exemption
This project is exempt under Category 15306 because it consists of basic data collection, research, and experimental management activities, which will not result in serious or major disturbance to an environmental resource.
Disclaimer: The document was originally posted before CEQAnet had the capability to host attachments for the public. To obtain the original attachments for this document, please contact the lead agency at the contact information listed above. You may also contact the OPR via email at state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov or via phone at (916) 445-0613.