HomeMy WebLinkAboutExhibitsA-E.pdfPROJECT DESCRIPTION
Luna Valley Solar Project
Fresno County, California
February 17 , 2020
Luna Valley Solar I, LLC
EXHIBIT A
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................................................... 1
2.0 PROJECT OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................................ 4
3.0 PROJECT LOCATION AND SITE HISTORY ................................................................................. 5
3.1 Location .................................................................................................................................. 5
3.2 Site History ............................................................................................................................. 5
3.2.1 Historic Water Use .................................................................................................... 5
4.0 PROJECT SITE – PARCELS TO BE DEVELOPED ...................................................................... 7
5.0 SCHEDULE ..................................................................................................................................... 8
6.0 SURROUNDING LAND USES AND CONDITIONS ....................................................................... 9
6.1 Local Setting......................................................................................................................... 11
7.0 COUNTY ZONING DISTRICT AND SOLAR GUIDELINES .......................................................... 12
7.1 General Plan and Zoning ..................................................................................................... 12
7.2 Solar Facility Guidelines ....................................................................................................... 12
8.0 DETAILED PROJECT DESCRIPTION ......................................................................................... 13
8.1 Facilities and Design ............................................................................................................ 13
8.1.1 Overview of Solar Technology ................................................................................ 13
8.1.2 Photovoltaic Modules and Support Structures ........................................................ 13
8.1.3 Power Conditioning Stations (Inverters and Transformers) .................................... 14
8.1.4 Substation ............................................................................................................... 14
8.1.5 Energy Storage System .......................................................................................... 15
8.1.6 Gen-Tie Lines .......................................................................................................... 17
8.1.7 Access Roads ......................................................................................................... 17
8.1.8 Perimeter Fencing ................................................................................................... 17
8.1.9 Telecommunications ............................................................................................... 17
8.1.10 Meteorological Data Collection System .................................................................. 17
8.1.11 Signage ................................................................................................................... 17
8.1.12 Lighting .................................................................................................................... 18
8.1.13 Stormwater Facilities ............................................................................................... 18
8.1.14 Other Infrastructure ................................................................................................. 18
8.1.15 Applicant-Proposed Best Management Practices .................................................. 18
8.2 Construction ......................................................................................................................... 19
8.2.1 Site Preparation and Grading ................................................................................. 19
8.2.2 Construction Access Routes and Laydown Areas .................................................. 19
8.3 Construction Activities and Equipment ................................................................................ 19
8.4 Operations ............................................................................................................................ 20
8.5 Decommissioning ................................................................................................................. 20
9.0 PERMITS AND CONSULTATIONS .............................................................................................. 21
9.1 Potential Permit Requirements ............................................................................................ 21
9.2 Consultations........................................................................................................................ 21
TABLES
Table 1. Historic Water Use .......................................................................................................................... 6
Table 2. Project Site Assessor’s Parcel Numbers ........................................................................................ 7
FIGURES
Figure 1. Project Location ............................................................................................................................. 1
Figure 2. Project Site .................................................................................................................................... 3
Figure 3. Surrounding Land Uses ............................................................................................................... 10
Figure 4. Typical Tracker Panel and Pier Design……………………………….………………………………14
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
AC alternating current
Applicant Luna Valley Solar I, LLC
CCR California Code of Regulations
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
DC direct current
ESS energy storage system
ft. feet
HVAC heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
kV kilovolt
LFP lithium iron phosphate
LMO lithium manganese oxide
LTO lithium titanate oxide
MW megawatt
NCA nickel cobalt aluminum
NMC nickel manganese cobaltO&M operations and maintenance
PCS power conditioning station
PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric
POI Point of Interconnection
Project Luna Valley Solar Project
PV photovoltaic
RPS Renewable Portfolio Standard
SCADA Supervisory control and data acquisition
SB Senate Bill
UCUP Unclassified Conditional Use Permit
Westlands Westlands Water District
1.0 OVERVIEW
Luna Valley Solar I, LLC (Applicant) is proposing to develop, own, and operate the Luna Valley Solar
Project (Project) in Fresno County, California, 9 miles west-southwest of the city of Tranquility within the
unincorporated area of Levis (Figure 1). The Project consists of constructing and operating a photovoltaic
(PV) solar electricity generating facility and energy storage system (ESS) and associated infrastructure
that would produce up to 200 megawatts (MW) of alternating current (AC) energy at the point of electrical
grid interconnection on approximately 1,300 acres of privately owned agricultural land (Figure 2) in
western Fresno County. The Project would include the construction of solar arrays, an electrical
substation and electrical interconnection facilities, an energy storage system and other necessary
infrastructure including an operation and maintenance (O&M) building, septic system and leach field, a
supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, a meteorological data system, buried conduit
for electrical wires, overhead collector lines, on-site access roads and security fencing. .
The Project area is zoned Exclusive Agriculture AE – 20, Exclusive Agriculture; 20-acre minimum parcel
size. Within this zoning district, the County permits utility-scale solar energy uses with an Unclassified
Conditional-Use Permit (UCUP). The Applicant selected the Project site based on its previously disturbed
nature and close proximity to electrical infrastructure and designed the Project in accordance with state
and county regulations.
2.0 PROJECT OBJECTIVES
The Applicant is proposing to construct the Project to meet the following objectives:
• Establish a PV solar power-generating facility of a sufficient size and configuration to produce up
to 200 MW (AC) of electricity at the Point of Interconnection (POI) in a cost-competitive manner;
• Assist California utilities in meeting their obligations under California’s Renewable Portfolio
Standard (RPS) Program and Senate Bill 100 (SB 100), which calls for 100 percent of all
electricity sold in California to be generated from renewable sources by the year 2045, including
60 percent renewables by 2030;
• Assist California utilities in meeting their obligations under the CPUC’s Energy Storage
Framework and Design Program;
• Provide for the economically viable and environmentally beneficial use of the site’s physically
impaired agricultural capacity;
• Provide a utility-scale solar generation facility on highly disturbed lands that provide minimal
habitat value for wildlife;
• Develop sites in close proximity to transmission infrastructure in order to minimize environmental
impacts; and
• Facilitate grid integration of intermittent and variable PV solar generation and minimize line losses
associated with off-site storage by collocating battery storage at the PV solar facility site.
3.0 PROJECT LOCATION AND SITE HISTORY
3.1 LOCATION
The Project site is located in unincorporated Fresno County and generally bound by flat, agricultural lands
and other solar energy generation facilities. The nearest city is Tranquility, approximately 9 miles to the
east-northeast. Interstate 5, paralleled to the east by the California Aqueduct, is approximately 11 miles to
the west as well as to the south of Project area. The cities of Mendota and San Joaquin are
approximately 10 miles north and east of Project area, respectively. The San Joaquin Airport is roughly
9.5 miles east of the Project area.
More specifically, Highway 33 (South Derrick Avenue) makes up the eastern boundary of the Project
area. The western edge of the Project area is approximately 2,600 ft. (feet) east of S. Bernardino Avenue,
the northern edge is approximately 1,400 ft. south of W. South Avenue, and the southern edge is
approximately 1,300 ft. north of W. Dinuba Avenue. W. Manning Avenue cuts through the approximate
middle of the Project area from east to west and S. Ohio Avenue cuts through the approximate middle of
the Project area from north to south.
The Project site is entirely within the U.S. Geological Survey 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle of Levis.
The Project area is located within Township 15 South, Range 14 East, Sections 23, 24, 25, and 26. The
Project site is located approximately within the latitudes of 36.59° and 36.61° and within the longitudes of
-120.39° and -120.42° (in decimal degrees). The Project area centroid is located at approximately
latitude/longitude 36°36'12"N/120°24'05"W (WGS1984).
Figure 1 displays the Project location.
3.2 SITE HISTORY
The Project is located on lands owned by Westlands Water District (Westlands). Westlands acquired this
property as part of the September 3, 2002 settlement agreement reached among the United States,
Westlands, and others in the Sumner Peck Ranch et al. v. Bureau of Reclamation et al. lawsuit.
The Project site is located in an area of agricultural land use and identified as Farmland of Local
Importance on the State Important Farmlands maps. In Fresno County, farmland of local importance
includes all farmable lands that do not meet the definitions of Prime, Statewide, or Unique farmland. The
site has historically been used for dry-farmed (non -irrigated) agriculture (low-yield production of winter
wheat and oats) and has been used for this purpose for the last 10 years. Agricultural land in this area
has been documented to contain relatively high levels of selenium and a water table that does not provide
sufficient drainage for commercially irrigated crops. During years in which rainfall is insufficient to produce
crops, the land is grazed as rangeland grasses. Currently, some portions of the Project area lie fallow
while the majority of the area is used to grow livestock fodder such as alfalfa. None of the land within the
Project site is covered by a Williamson Act Contract.
Highway 33, the eastern boundary of the Project area, extends from Ventura County in the south to San
Joaquin County in the north. Designated as a state highway in 1934, Highway 33 traverses a desolate
area of the Central Valley between instate 5 and highway 99. Highway 33 traffic was significantly reduced
as a result of Interstate 5 development.
3.2.1 Historic Water Use
Project site parcels have historically been used for non-irrigated, dry-farming of crops such as wheat and
alfalfa (Table 1). Crop yield data for the Project site parcels is not available but would be consistent with
regional dry farming yields. During dry years with insufficient rainfall for crop production, parcels were
fallow or used for grazing. Only one parcel (028-60-72ST) has a well. The well is located at 36° 36′ 13.22″
N/ 120° 24′ 22.67″ W. However, the well is currently non-operational and the water table is estimated at
995 feet below the surface of the ground. All other water used within the Project site parcels is provided
from the water district.
Table 1. Historic Water Use
Assessor’s
Parcel Number
Irrigation
Covenant
Historical Ag Use
(if none within past
10 years, specify what
was last in ag use)
Crop Types
(10 years)
Source of water for
parcel (irrigation
district, well(s),
conjunctive system)
Well
Onsite?
028-060-34T Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-060-69ST Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-060-70ST No Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-60-71ST No Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-60-72ST Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District Yes
028-101-15ST Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-101-17ST Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-101-19ST No Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-101-29ST Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-101-58ST Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-101-65ST No Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-101-69ST Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-101-72ST Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-101-74ST Yes Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
028-101-77ST Unknown Fallowed Dry Farmed non
irrigated
Wheat, alfalfa
seed, Grazing
Irrigation District No
Source: Westlands
4.0 PROJECT SITE – PARCELS TO BE DEVELOPED
Table 2 shows the assessor’s parcel numbers for the Project site.
Table 2. Project Site Assessor’s Parcel Numbers
028-060-34T 028-101-15ST 028-101-65ST
028-060-69ST 028-101-17ST 028-101-69ST
028-060-70ST 028-101-19ST 028-101-72ST
028-060-71ST 028-101-29ST 028-101-74ST
028-060-72ST 028-101-58ST 028-101-77ST
6.0 SURROUNDING LAND USES AND CONDITIONS
The Project site is largely surrounded by existing agriculture, including non-irrigated fields owned mostly
by Westlands. The Project area is within an unincorporated area of the Central Valley, west of Fresno,
designated for agricultural use.
In addition to the immediate agricultural use, the surrounding areas are mostly agricultural or
undeveloped land with few residences. Several solar energy facilities are operating or under development
in the immediate surrounding area, including the Tranquility and Scarlet projects. Also nearby are
Interstate 5, the California Aqueduct, the San Joaquin Airport, and the cities of Mendota, Tranquility, and
San Joaquin.
The AE-20 County zoning district permits utility-scale solar energy uses with a UCUP. The Project area is
located within the Fresno County Fire Protection District and thus Project plans will be reviewed
accordingly.
Figure 3 shows the land uses surrounding the Project area.
6.1 LOCAL SETTING
The Project site is located within the Central Valley region of Fresno County. The region consists of a
single broad, flat valley, drained by the San Joaquin River and its tributaries, bound by the Sierra Nevada
to the east and the Coast Range to the west. The elevation ranges from about 150 to 450 feet above sea
level. Historically, the dominant habitat types were arid grasslands and shrub lands with expansive Valley
Oak riparian woodlands and freshwater emergent wetlands in the proximity of water sources. Today, most
of the land has been converted for agricultural uses.
The Project site is in an unincorporated area of Fresno County 9 miles west-southwest of the city of
Tranquility. Land use in the area is mostly agricultural interspersed with sparse rural residential
development and solar energy facilities that are currently operating or under development. The nearest
rural residences are located approximately 1,500 feet from the southeast corner of the Project site along
Highway 33. Interstate 5, paralleled to the east by the California Aqueduct, is approximately 11 miles to
the west as well as to the south of Project site. The cities of Mendota and San Joaquin are approximately
10 miles north and east of Project site, respectively. The San Joaquin Airport is roughly 9.5 miles east.
The Project site is within the Fresno County Fire Protection District. The nearest fire station is in
Tranquility at 25101 W. Morton Avenue.
According to data from the California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring
Program, the Project site includes lands identified as Farmland of Local Importance. In Fresno County,
Farmland of Local Importance includes all farmable lands that do not meet the definitions of Prime,
Statewide, or Unique farmland. This includes land that is or has been used for irrigated pasture, dryland
farming, confined livestock and dairy, poultry facilities, aquaculture, and grazing land. Currently, the
Project site is used for dryland farming to grow livestock fodder such as alfalfa and some portions are
now fallow.
According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Web Soil Survey, the Project site includes
soils four types of soil. The soils are: Posochanet clay loam (approximately 40 percent of the site),
Tranquility clay (approximately 30 percent of the site), Ciervo clay (approximately 30 percent of the site),
and Calfax clay loam (less than 1 percent of the site).
Interstate 5 is the only major transportation route near the site. The Interstate runs north to south
connecting southern California to northern California and the Pacific Northwest. Near the site, the
Interstate veers slightly south-southeast and thus is approximately 11 miles to the west as well as to the
south of Project area. Most roadways in the immediate Project area vicinity are unimproved or paved
without curb or sidewalk improvements. West Manning, which cuts through the Project area, connects the
cities of Tranquility and San Joaquin to Interstate 5. Highway 33, the eastern boundary of the Project
area, connects the city of Mendota to the Interstate.
The nearest airport is the privately-owned San Joaquin Airport (CA32). The nearest major airport is the
Fresno Yosemite International Airport, which is over 40 miles from the Project area.
The nearest military facility is approximately 30 miles to the southeast at the Naval Air Station in Lemoore.
7.0 COUNTY ZONING DISTRICT AND SOLAR GUIDELINES
7.1 GENERAL PLAN AND ZONING
The Project site is zoned AE – 20, Exclusive Agriculture; 20-acre minimum parcel size. This County zone
designation permits a PV solar and energy storage facility with a UCUP.
7.2 SOLAR FACILITY GUIDELINES
Fresno County’s Solar Facility Guidelines (as revised by the Board of Supervisors on May 21, 2013) set
forth the County’s policies for solar project development. The purpose of the guidelines is to help balance
the development of solar projects with the need to “protect important farmlands and minimize impacts to
existing agricultural operations.”
The Project is designed with a buffer between the solar facility and adjacent agricultural fields. In
compliance with the Guidelines, the Applicant will acknowledge the County’s Right to Farm Ordinance
and will record a Right to Farm Notice. To facilitate a possible return to agricultural uses after the life span
of the Project, the Applicant will submit to the County a reclamation plan detailing the removal of Project
improvements and specific measures to return the site to its condition prior to construction.
8.0 DETAILED PROJECT DESCRIPTION
8.1 FACILITIES AND DESIGN
8.1.1 Overview of Solar Technology
The Project would include a solar energy generating facility, direct current (DC) electricity to AC electricity
power inverters and transformers or power conditioning stations, a Project on-site substation, battery
ESS, and a connection to the PG&E-owned Tranquility substation. Major Project features are described
below and displayed on the submitted Site Plan.
Other Project components include access roads, perimeter fences, telecommunications, a meteorological
data collection system, signage, lighting, stormwater facilities, and an operations and maintenance
building. These components are also all discussed in detail below.
8.1.2 Photovoltaic Modules and Support Structures
The solar facility would consist of PV solar modules arranged into arrays supported by a racking system
and tracker units that track the sun (Figure 4). The PV modules on the trackers convert sunlight into
electricity. When modules are mounted on tracking devices, they are referred to as trackers or tracker
blocks. The trackers are organized in rows in a uniform grid pattern or solar array. The proposed Project
would have multiple solar arrays interconnected to form a utility-scale PV system.
The modules may be constructed of glass encasing crystalline silicon, poly crystalline silicon, or thin film
technology. The PV modules would be dark blue, almost black in color, with minimal light reflection. A
plastic binding material and metal frame provides structural rigidity. The solar modules would be self-
contained, durably constructed units designed to withstand exposure to the elements for a period of 35
years or greater. The solar modules deployed for use in the Project would be certified to comply with all
industry standard quality testing. Modules would be electrically connected and grounded. The plant will be
designed in accordance with local and state codes and regulations. The final panel selection would be
determined at the detailed Project-engineering phase.
To support the trackers, the Project would utilize a single-axis tracking system designed to optimize
power production of the modules by ensuring proper orientation to the sun both daily and seasonally.
Metal piers driven into the ground by a pile-driving machine support the single-axis tracking systems. Pier
placement begins with a precise surveyed layout, ensuring proper positioning of remaining tracker
assembly parts. Affixed to the top of each pier is a pier cap and bearing assembly that supports and
allows proper movement of the torque tube assembly. Single-axis tracking systems require a drive system
that provides directional force to the torque tube. This can be accomplished with either a mechanical or
hydraulic drive arm and tube assembly that “pushes and pulls” the torque arm through its range of motion
or by a geared assembly that redirects rotational force to the tubes. Both approaches require a small
geared motor or hydraulic system mounted on a pile support or pad strong enough to move the system
through its daily range of motions.
The trackers would be separated by distances to accommodate maintenance personnel and design
parameters that meet applicable Fresno County fire safety requirements. Modules would be organized in
rows in a uniform grid pattern, with each row separated by approximately 15-25 feet (from post to post).
The module and tracker features allow for a natural light regime between and under the modules,
supporting the co-management of solar energy generation, agriculture, and wildlife.
Figure 4. Typical Tracker Panel and Pier Design
8.1.3 Power Conditioning Stations (Inverters and Transformers)
Individual PV tracker panels would be connected together in series to create a “string” of trackers carrying
DC electricity using a combiner box. Inverters in the power conditioning stations (PCS) convert the DC
electricity produced by the trackers to AC electricity. The PCS transformers then accumulate the AC
electricity to the appropriate collection level voltage (34.5 kilovolt [kV]) for movement to the Project
substation and eventual delivery to the electrical grid. The number of trackers connected to each of the
PCS would vary with module output relative to inverter size and desired output from the PCS.
The Project will require approximately 62 PCS, depending on final design details. The number of trackers
connected to each of the PCS varies with tracker output relative to inverter size and desired output from
the PCS. The PCS would be placed strategically throughout the Project site and the inverters and
transformers, as well as other electrical equipment that comprises each PCS, would be contained within
electrical equipment enclosures.
The Project is proposing to use Power Electronics HEM 3430 inverters and transformers, or equivalent.
Each inverter and transformer will be installed as per manufacturer’s requirements.
8.1.4 Substation
A substation located in the southwest corner of the Project area, adjacent to the ESS, would be
constructed as part of the Project (as shown on the submitted Site Plan). The Project substation would
include transformers, breakers, switches, meters, and related equipment. The overall footprint of the
Project substation is anticipated to be approximately 350 feet by 300 feet with gen-tie structures up to 150
feet in height. An emergency generator for use in the event that the regional transmission system fails
would also be at the substation; this emergency generator would provide emergency power until the
regional transmission system restores operations. The generator would be powered by propane or diesel
and is estimated to be 49 kilowatts or less in size. An approximately 220-gallon fuel tank would be
immediately adjacent to the generator.
The Project substation may also contain a control room building approximately 40 feet by 40 feet with an
overall height of less than 15 feet. The substation would be surrounded by an 8-foot barbed wire chain-
link fence to comply with electrical codes. The control room may be outside the fenced area.
The substation must have access to communication systems in the area to comply with Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission/California Independent System Operator utility monitoring and control
requirements. Compliance may be accomplished by underground lines, aboveground lines, or wirelessly.
8.1.5 Energy Storage System
ESS components are advantageous for renewable energy Projects because they allow energy to be
reliably fed to the grid from an otherwise intermittent energy production source. The ESS is expected to
be either located adjacent to the substation or distributed throughout the solar array at the inverter
equipment pads or tracker rows. If batteries are located adjacent to the substation, they would be
contained within either steel enclosures similar to a refrigerator-sized cabinet. The color of the metal
enclosure has not yet been determined; it typically varies by manufacturer. If distributed throughout the
solar array, the ESS would likely be contained within metal housings and electrically connected to the
inverters at each of the equipment pads.
Up to 4 acres may be utilized for the ESS. The key components of the ESS are described below.
• Batteries. Individual lithium ion cells form the core of the ESS. Cells are assembled either in
series or parallel connection, in sealed battery modules. The battery modules would be installed
in self-supporting racks electrically connected either in series or parallel to each other. The
operating rack-level DC voltage currently ranges between 700 and 1,500 volts. The individual
battery racks are connected in series or a parallel configuration to deliver the battery storage
system energy and power rating.
• Battery Storage System Enclosure and Controller. The battery storage system enclosure would
house the batteries described above, as well as the battery storage system controller. The battery
storage system controller is a multilevel control system designed to provide a hierarchical system
of controls for the battery modules, PCS, medium voltage system, and up to the point of
connection with the electrical grid. The controllers ensure that the battery storage system
effectively mimics conventional turbine generators when responding to grid emergency
conditions. The battery storage system enclosure would also house required heating, ventilation,
and air conditioning (HVAC) and fire protection systems.
• DC/DC Converter. In a DC-coupled system, the DC/DC converter allows the connection of the
battery storage system to the DC side of the photovoltaic inverter. The DC/DC converter
manages the battery and PV bus voltage and provides appropriate protections for the PV inverter.
• PCS - Inverter. The PCS consists of an inverter, protection equipment, circuit breakers, air filter
equipment, equipment terminals, and cabling. Electricity is transferred from the PV array (or
power grid) to the Project batteries during a battery charging cycle and from the Project batteries
to the power grid during a battery discharge cycle. The inverter is bi-directional, with the ability to
convert power from AC to DC when the energy is transferred from the grid to the battery and from
DC to AC when the energy is transferred from the battery to the grid. The inverter DC operating
voltage would be between 700 and 1,500 volts, with a typical power rating of approximately
3,000 kW. The inverter AC operating voltage may be approximately 630 volts AC nominal.
Voltage is increased to medium voltage levels (typically approximately 13–34.5 kV) when
combined with a medium voltage transformer. Voltage and power ratings are specific to the
equipment manufacturer and product model. The installed equipment would be selected at a later
date and therefore is subject to change.
• Medium Voltage Transformer. A separate medium voltage transformer may be present if not
integrated into the inverter skid. This would be a pad-mounted transformer used to increase
voltage on the AC side of the inverter from low to medium voltage. Medium voltage transformers
are used to increase the efficiency of power transmission, associated with reduced resistive
power losses higher voltage.
The ESS would likely use one of several available lithium ion technologies, though alternatives may be
considered (such as flow batteries) given continuing rapid technological change in the battery industry. In
general, a lithium ion battery is a rechargeable battery consisting of three major functional components: a
positive electrode made from metal oxide, a negative electrode made from carbon, and an electrolyte
made from lithium salt. Lithium ions move from negative to positive electrodes during discharging and in
the opposite direction when charging. Five major lithium ion battery sub-chemistries are commercially
available:
• Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum (NCA)
• Lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC)
• Lithium manganese oxide (LMO)
• Lithium titanate oxide (LTO)
• Lithium iron phosphate (LFP)
Selection of the lithium ion sub-chemistry for the Project would take into consideration various technical
factors, including safety, life span, energy performance, and cost.
The proposed ESS would be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained in accordance with
existing federal, state, and local regulations for health and safety, including the 2016 California Fire Code.
The Applicant would select batteries or ESS providers that comply with the application-specific codes,
standards, and regulations for the siting, construction, and operation of lithium-ion stationary ESS.
The configuration of the safety system would be determined based on site-specific environmental factors
and associated fire response strategy. The ESS would contain a safety system that would be triggered
automatically when the system senses imminent fire danger. The fire safety system inside each enclosure
will shut down the unit if any hazard indicators are detected. If the safety system detects a potential issue
as detected by the smoke and temperature sensors, the batteries will be automatically deenergized by
opening the electrical contacts, and HVAC units and fans are shut off. The enclosure wall is designed to
contain the fire for at least 2 hours, providing sufficient time for the fire to die down and allow the system
to cool. Fire responders are trained to monitor fire from a safe distance using infrared cameras until
temperature of the affected enclosure cools to ambient temperature.
The Emergency Response Plan is used to train local emergency response personnel during development
and operations of the facility. The plan will be completed in accordance with existing state regulations
(Health and Safety Code [HSC] § 25504(b); 19 California Code of Regulations [CCR] §2731; 22 CCR
§66262.34(a)(4)). The contents of the Emergency Response Plan would comply with existing state
regulations and include the following components and involve training for the local fire responders:
• Developed in consultation with Fire Department and ESS Supplier
• Defined roles and responsibilities
• Potential emergency scenarios including fire
• On-site training of fire personnel and on-site Project staff
• Training for local first responders
8.1.6 PG&E Transmission Line
To interconnect the Luna Valley Solar Project to the PG&E Tranquility Switching Station, PG&E would
extend the footprint of the existing Tranquility Switching Station north by approximately 100 feet and
construct a new 230 kV transmission line that would extend from the Tranquility Switching Station to a
structure located on the solar Project property. The PG&E transmission line would include approximately
1,300 feet of 230 kV conductor strung on approximately four new poles of up to 200 feet in height. The
PG&E transmission line would also include underground fiber optic line for communications. Energy from
the Project solar arrays will be collected at the Project substation, described above, and transmitted to the
PG&E-owned Tranquility substation via PG&E transmission line, as shown on the submitted Site Plan.
8.1.7 Access Roads
Access to the Project area would be via main entrances along W. Manning Avenue and Highway 33
(S. Derrick Avenue). The Applicant plans to utilize existing interior access roads, however these roads
may be improved with the addition of an aggregate base or other native material with a soil stabilization
material, if necessary. Interior and perimeter access routes would be approximately 20 feet wide.
8.1.8 Perimeter Fencing
Chain-link fencing is proposed along the perimeter of the Project area. One foot of three-strand
concertina wire may also be added to the perimeter fence if deemed necessary. Access gates would be
provided at each site entry road.
8.1.9 Telecommunications
The Project would require connection with the existing local telecommunication service. A
telecommunication line is comprised of fiber optic cable and/or 25-pair telephone line, which would be
installed above and below ground, either attached to existing distribution lines or installed immediately
adjacent to the Project substation. The telecommunication routes would use a combination of existing
poles or new poles and below ground installations. Lines would be placed within utility franchise
easements to the extent feasible. The POI to the existing telecom facilities would be in a small
telephone/fiber optic vault. Interconnection to the Project would be within the Project substation. Below
ground installations are usually installed 24-48 inches below grade. Aboveground lines are typically
placed 6 feet below existing distribution lines or on new, adjacent wooden poles. Telecommunications
may also be transmitted by a small wireless antenna, which would be placed at the Project substation.
8.1.10 Meteorological Data Collection System
The Project would require several meteorological data collection systems. The systems would include a
variety of instruments to collect meteorological data, which would be mounted at various locations
throughout the facility. The meteorological data would be collected at the level of the solar panels or
approximately 10 feet above the ground.
8.1.11 Signage
Project signage is proposed to allow for the identification of the Project owner and for safety and security
purposes. Signage is proposed to be installed on the fence or ground mounted in the vicinity of the main
entry gates. Signage would identify the Project operator and owner and would provide emergency contact
information. Small-scale signage would also be posted at the main entry gates and intermittently along
the perimeter fencing on all exterior parcel boundaries, to indicate “No Trespassing” and “Private
Property” for security purposes. All signage would conform to Fresno County signage requirements.
8.1.12 Lighting
Limited lighting is proposed on the Project site. Lighting would be used from dusk to dawn. Project lighting
would be installed to allow for ongoing maintenance and security. Low-level lighting may be installed at
entry and egress gates and at other strategic locations around the facility. Manually controlled lights
would be installed at equipment pads and substations. All Project lighting would be shielded and directed
downward to minimize the potential for glare or spillover onto adjacent ownerships. All lighting would
conform to applicable Fresno County outdoor lighting codes.
8.1.13 Stormwater Facilities
The site drainage is designed to follow the natural drainage pattern, and none of the on-site facilities,
including fences and panel posts, should prevent stormwater flow. Therefore, the Applicant anticipates
that the Project would have very limited impact on site drainage. No on-site detention facilities are
planned.
8.1.14 Other Infrastructure
Operations and maintenance activities would take place in a new operations and maintenance building
located near the southwest corner of the Project area (as shown on the submitted Site Plan). This
building would be approximately 100 by 50 feet. Sanitary facilities for operations would be provided
through the proposed operations and maintenance building to include a septic system or leach field. No
additional wastewater or septic system facilities would be required. Water required during construction
would be obtained from on-site wells or trucked in. Water requirements during operations would be
negligible (that is, for occasional cleaning of solar panels).
8.1.15 Applicant-Proposed Best Management Practices
Various attributes and features of the Project serve to minimize negative effects on local land uses. These
include the following.
8.1.15.1 Solar Technology – Glare and Lighting
The Project would use solar panels that have a low profile (typically 6 feet high, but generally no more
than 13 feet high at the highest point during the day) to minimize visual impacts. These solar panels are
designed to be anti-reflective.
Nighttime lighting impacts would be minimized by including only small lighting features that are equipped
with on/off switches or motion detectors. The lighting impacts from such fixtures would be similar to those
of domestic fixtures on local homes.
8.1.15.2 Noise Reduction
The only noise-producing Project feature—the inverters—would be placed away from the site boundaries
to ensure that off-site areas do not experience noise levels exceeding County standards described in the
Fresno County Noise Control Ordinance (Fresno County Code 8.40).
8.2 CONSTRUCTION
8.2.1 Site Preparation and Grading
Grubbing and grading would occur on the site to achieve the required surface conditions. Because the
site is already mostly flat, grading would be minimal. The site’s cut and fill would balance, and no
importing or exporting of materials would be necessary.
After grading, temporary fences would be placed around the Project site, allowing materials and
equipment to be securely stored on the site.
8.2.2 Construction Access Routes and Laydown Areas
Construction vehicles would access the Project site from Highway 33 or W. Manning Avenue.
During construction, materials would be placed within the Project boundaries adjacent to the then-current
phase of construction. To prevent theft and vandalism, materials would be secured within fenced areas at
all times. A storage container might be used to house tools and other construction equipment. In addition,
security guards would regularly monitor the site. Portable toilet facilities would be installed for use by
construction workers. Waste disposal would occur in a permitted off-site facility. Domestic water for use
by employees would be provided by the construction contractor through deliveries to the site.
8.3 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES AND EQUIPMENT
The Applicant anticipates that construction would occur during a period of approximately 18 months. The
onsite construction workforce would consist of laborers, craftspeople, supervisory personnel, and support
personnel. The onsite assembly and construction workforce is expected to reach a peak of approximately
300 workers; the average number of workers onsite is anticipated to be approximately 100 to 150. On
average, it is anticipated that each worker will generate one round trip to the Project per workday. Most
workers would commute to the site from nearby communities such as Mendota, Tranquility, or San
Joaquin, with some traveling from more-distant areas such as Fresno, Visalia, or Hanford. Construction
would occur primarily during daylight hours. Workers would reach the site using existing roads.
Project construction would consist of two major stages. The first stage would include site preparation,
grading, and preparing staging areas and on-site access routes, and the second stage would involve
assembling the trackers and constructing electrical interconnection facilities.
Onsite roads would be constructed with a scarified and compacted subgrade and coated to create a
dustless or durable surface or surfaced with compacted gravel. At the footing for the PCS pads, existing
soil would be scarified and recompacted following recommendations of the geotechnical report.
Placing solar panels will require driving steel piles about 6 to 10 feet into the ground. In areas where
geotechnical analysis has determined that piles might not be feasible or cost-effective, conventional
foundations (such as isolated spread foundations or continuous footings) might be used.
During construction, a variety of equipment and vehicles would operate on the Project site. All equipment
and vehicles would comply with the noise requirements of the Fresno County Noise Control Ordinance
(Fresno County Code 8.40).
Water for dust control and other construction needs would come from onsite wells or be trucked to the
site.
8.4 OPERATIONS
Once constructed, the Project would operate seven days per week and 365 days per year. The facility
would be operated by Luna Valley Solar I, LLC or an affiliated company. Approximately four, permanent
on-site staff are anticipated. Security would be maintained through installation of a chain-link fence, which
would include one- foot of three-strand concertina wire along the perimeter of the site. Existing barbed
wire fencing would be replaced with the Project perimeter fencing as needed. Infrared security cameras,
motion detectors, and/or other similar technology may also be installed to allow for monitoring of the
Project site through review of live, 24/7 footage. A security company may also be contracted by the
Applicant for security purposes during construction and operation. Should the security system detect the
presence of unauthorized personnel, a security representative would be dispatched to the facility, and
appropriate local authorities would be notified.
Operation and maintenance of the Project would generate minimal noise, primarily from fans used to cool
electrical equipment and transformers. Considering the distance to the nearest residence, it is not
expected that fans or transformers would be audible from any residential area.
Only occasional, on-site maintenance is expected to be required following commissioning. Initially,
personnel would likely visit the Project area daily or weekly, but it is anticipated that eventually
maintenance visits would be reduced to once a month or less. Operations and maintenance activities
would require up to 4 workers performing visual inspections, monitoring plant performance, executing
minor repairs, and responding to needs for plant adjustment. On intermittent occasions, the presence of
5 to 30 workers may be required for repairs or replacement of equipment, panel cleaning, and other
specialized maintenance. However, due to the self-operating nature of the facilities, such actions would
likely occur infrequently.
The expected maintenance would generate little traffic during operations. The areas surrounding the
inverters and switchgear would be graveled and would have adequate space for parking several vehicles.
Operations and maintenance vehicles would include light duty trucks (e.g., pickup, flatbed) and other light
equipment for maintenance and module washing. Heavy equipment would not be utilized during normal
operation. Large or heavy equipment may be brought to the facility infrequently for equipment repair or
replacement or vegetation control.
Minimal water would be required for panel washing activities and general maintenance. The need for
panel washing would be infrequent (e.g., months to years between washings) and determined based on
operating considerations, including actual soiling of the PV panels and any expected benefit from
cleaning. Should cleaning be necessary, demineralized water would be sprayed on the PV panels to
remove dust or a dry cleaning method may be used.
Sanitary facilities for operations would be provided through the septic system at the proposed operations
and maintenance building. Other wastes from equipment replacement or other work would be removed
from the Site at the end of the day, or as needed.
Combustible vegetation or agricultural products on and around the Project boundary would be actively
managed by the Project owner or its affiliates during both the construction and operation phases of the
Project to minimize fire risk. Combustible products would be either limited in height or removed.
Additionally, the Project would include firebreaks around the site boundary in the form of access roads
subject to county standards.
8.5 DECOMMISSIONING
If operations at the site are terminated, the facility would be decommissioned. Most parts of the proposed
system are recyclable. Panels typically consist of silicon, glass, and an aluminum frame. Tracking
systems typically consist of steel and concrete, in addition to motors and control systems. All of these
materials can be recycled.
Numerous recyclers for the various materials to be used on the Project site operate in Fresno and other
nearby counties. Metal, scrap equipment, and parts that do not have free-flowing oil can be sent for
salvage. Equipment containing any free-flowing oil would be managed as waste and would require
evaluation. Oil and lubricants removed from equipment would be managed as used oil, which is a
hazardous waste in California. Decommissioning would comply with federal, state, county and other local
standards and all regulations that exist when the Project is shut down.
9.0 PERMITS AND CONSULTATIONS
9.1 POTENTIAL PERMIT REQUIREMENTS
• Fresno County – UCUP, Variance for gen-tie pole height, Lot Line Adjustment, Lot Merger,
Subdivision Map, and/or a Tentative Parcel Map
• Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board – General Permit for Discharges of
Storm Water Associated with Construction Activity, Construction General Permit Order 2009-
0009-DWQ, Section 401 Clean Water Act Permit, if required.
• California Department of Fish and Wildlife – Streambed Alteration Agreement, if required;
Incidental Take Permit for state-listed species (ITP), if required.
• United States Army Corps of Engineers – Section 404 Clean Water Act Permit, if required.
• United States Fish and Wildlife Services – ITP for federally-listed species, if required.
9.2 CONSULTATIONS
• San Joaquin Valley Unified Air Quality Management District – comply with regulations;
consult during the CEQA process
• Fresno County Fire Protection District – comply with regulations; consult during the CEQA
process
April 10, 2020 Luna Valley Solar Project 3
environmental science associates
Luna Valley Solar Project
B. Scope of Work, Schedule and Cost
1 Proposed Scope of Work
Task 1: Review of Applicant Studies
ESA understands that the Applicant is preparing and will
provide nine technical studies for the County’s independent
review and reliance as appropriate in preparing the Draft EIR:
1. Visual Resources Technical Report that includes pre-
and post-Project visual simulations
2. Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (LESA)
3. Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions
modeling and report
4. Biological Resources Technical Report
5. Cultural Resources Technical Report
6. Paleontological Assessment
7. Water Supply Assessment and Evaluation
8. Acoustical Assessment
9. Transportation Study
In addition to these reports, ESA anticipates that a preliminary
geotechnical evaluation and a Phase I site assessment would
be made available. No Phase II site assessment is proposed
as part of this scope of work. If one is determined to be
necessary based on the results of the Phase I assessment,
then ESA assumes that one would be provided by the
Applicant for the County's consideration.
ESA assumes that the technical reports will be complete
and of high quality, and that all material and technical reports
for preparation of the EIR (including GIS layers, worksheets,
and cited reference materials) will be provided. ESA will
independently review them to determine whether they are
suitable for reliance, in combination with other expertise and
materials, in the EIR. If clarification or additional information
is needed, ESA will submit a data request. This scope assumes
that no more than two of the nine reports would require
clarification or further supplementation in response to review.
Task 2: Project Kickoff
ESA proposes two CEQA process kickoff meetings: one with
Fresno County Department of Public Works and Planning
staff and the Applicant, the other with County Planning staff,
the Applicant, and representatives from the County Roads
Department and from the California Department of
Transportation (Caltrans). It is assumed that these meetings
would be held the same day. The goals of each meeting are to:
1) Define expectations for success; 2) identify opportunities to
improve the process based on the group’s experience with
other recent projects, 3) Confirm the communications protocol
to maintain the integrity of the CEQA process; and 4) Gain
consensus as to approach and schedule.
AB 52 Tribal Consultation
As part of the AB 52 consultation process, CEQA lead agencies
consult with Tribes in determining whether a proposed project
may result in a significant impact to tribal cultural resources
that may be undocumented or known only to the Tribe and its
members. ESA will support the County’s consultation with the
Tribes by working with the County to carefully consider
potential impacts of the Project to any resources or features
identified by a Tribe as a Tribal Cultural Resource.
Site visit
ESA’s Project Director (Janna Scott), Project Manager
(Shannon Bottenberg), and Deputy Project Manager (Jessica
O’Dell) will join County staff in attending a site visit, assumed
to be scheduled on the same day as the kick-off meetings, that
would be facilitated by the Applicant’s team. Goals of the site
visit would include an introduction to on-the-ground
conditions and any anticipated environmental constraints.
Notifications
ESA will draft and, upon approval from the County, will
distribute the Notice of Preparation (NOP), Notice of
Completion (NOC), and Scoping Meeting notice to the State
Clearinghouse, and responsible/trustee/other agencies. ESA
EXHIBIT B
B. Scope of Work, Schedule, Cost
4 esassoc.com
proposes to further support the County’s CEQA process for this
Project by taking the lead with respect to:
• Posting the NOP with the Office of the Fresno County
Clerk and payment of the $50 fee;
• Mailing the NOP to bordering jurisdictions, property
owners within 1 mile of the Project Site, the Planning
Commissioner and County Supervisor in whose district
the Project is proposed, and to other interested parties
included on a County-approved, Project-specific
distribution list.
• Publication of the NOP in an area newspaper, such as the
Business Journal or West Side Advance.
Task 3: Scoping
ESA assumes one public scoping meeting will be held in the
vicinity of the Project Site. ESA will coordinate the meeting
location, develop the presentation, provide necessary
equipment (e.g., projector, screen, easels, up to three poster
boards, pens, etc.), and take notes. Based on low attendance
at the public scoping meetings for the RE Tranquillity and
Little Bear projects, we do not propose to hire a court reporter
to produce a meeting transcript. Three members of the ESA
team would attend the meeting and take notes of any public
comments. ESA’s team will include Spanish language
translation capabilities at the County’s election.
ESA will prepare a draft scoping report for review and approval
by the County (one round of comments is assumed) and will
prepare a final scoping report for inclusion as an Appendix to
the Draft EIR.
Task 4: Administrative Draft EIR
Based on our experience with the RE Tranquillity and Little
Bear projects, ESA proposes to prepare a single Administrative
Draft EIR. ESA will provide an electronic version of the
Administrative Draft EIR to the County and to the Applicant for
review. Internal quality assurance/quality control of all
deliverables is included in the estimate.
Project Description
ESA will substantially rely on a project description to be
provided for ESA’s use by the Applicant that provides details
necessary for the CEQA an analysis about the proposed
construction, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning
of the Project (including workforce and equipment estimates,
information about water and other utility and public service
needs, and summaries or initial drafts of proposed
management plans). We anticipate that any requests for
clarification would be minimal and could be resolved
promptly.
To support the project description and consistent with the
County’s Solar Facility Guidelines, ESA assumes that the
Applicant will provide additional information with the project
description, including details about the site selection process,
and materials delivery routes. ESA anticipates that compliance
with the Solar Facility Guidelines can be demonstrated for
purposes of analyzing potential impacts to Land Use and
Planning via a table in an Appendix to the Draft EIR.
Alternatives
ESA anticipates that the EIR will describe up to three
alternatives (a No Project Alternative and up to two others)
that would meet most of the basic objectives of the Project
and otherwise satisfy the requirements of CEQA. The EIR will
present a comparative analysis of the alternatives analyzed in
detail, and will describe potential alternatives considered but
rejected from more detailed consideration, including the
rationale for this decision.
Impacts Analysis
For each resource area that could be affected by the Project,
ESA will draft an EIR section that describes the environmental
setting, regulatory setting, and methodology; and that
evaluates direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of the
Project and alternatives. Any necessary mitigation measures
will be identified. ESA assumes that thresholds of significance
will be based on the considerations identified in CEQA
Guidelines Appendix G and consistent with the County’s past
practice.
Task 5: Draft EIR and Notices
ESA assumes that a single Administrative Draft EIR will be
needed, and that all comments provided by the County and
the Applicant will be received via a combination of the
“tracked changes” function of Word and comment bubbles
rather than a memo or table format. ESA will revise the
Administrative Draft EIR in response to input received,
providing a redline/tacked changes version that shows
responsive revisions and a clean “screen check” version. ESA
B. Scope of Work, Schedule, Cost
April 10, 2020 Luna Valley Solar Project 5
environmental science associates
will prepare a draft Notice of Availability and draft Notice of
Completion and will submit them for County review.
Upon receipt of approval to print, ESA will generate and
distribute up to 35 printed copies (to be allocated among the
County Public Works and Planning Department, the Applicant
team, and the County Main Library) and up to 50 electronic
copies (CDs or thumb drives) of the Draft EIR. ESA will submit
the Draft EIR to the State Clearinghouse and provide copies to
responsible and trustee agencies. Notice of availability of the
Draft EIR will provided by postcard to others on the Project-
specific distribution list and by publication of notice in the
newspaper. ESA also will provide an electronic copy suitable
for upload by the County to its website, along with copies of all
reference materials relied upon in the Draft EIR so that they
can be made available for public inspection upon release of
the Draft EIR. ESA will arrange for publication of the NOA.
Task 6: Administrative Final EIR
ESA will organize and facilitate one public meeting during a 45-
day comment period on the Draft EIR. ESA will coordinate the
public meeting location, provide necessary equipment, develop
a presentation and related meeting materials (e.g., sign-in
sheets, speaker cards and comment cards), and take notes.
ESA will prepare an Administrative Draft Response to
Comments document for the County’s and Applicant’s review.
This scope of work assumes, consistent with the County’s past
experience on similar projects, that five or fewer letters will be
submitted on the Draft EIR. If a more robust response is
received, ESA will revisit the proposed costs to evaluate
whether a greater-than-anticipated level of effort is needed to
respond. The Response to Comments document and the Draft
EIR together will constitute the Final EIR. An electronic version
of the Final EIR will be submitted to the County and the
Applicant for review.
Task 7: Final EIR
ESA will further develop or refine the response to comments
document in accordance with input received, and will submit a
tracked changes and clean electronic version of the Final EIR
to the County and the Applicant for review toward granting
approval to publish.
Upon receipt of approval to print, ESA will provide the County
with 35 printed copies (to be allocated among County
decision-makers, County Public Works and Planning
Department staff, the Applicant, and the County Main Library)
and up to 50 electronic copies (CDs or thumb drives) for
distribution to responsible and trustee agency commenters on
the Draft EIR and the State Clearinghouse. Other commenters
will be notified by postcard of the issuance of the Final EIR.
ESA will prepare and submit a NOC to the State Clearing-
house. ESA also will provide an electronic copy of the Final EIR
that is suitable for upload by the County to its website, along
with copies of all reference materials relied upon in the Final
EIR so that they can be made available for public inspection.
Task 8: Decision Support
ESA will support the County’s decision-making process by
preparing a draft Staff Report with appendices (including a
proposed Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP)
that identifies each proposed mitigation measure, the party
responsible for its implementation, required implementation
activities and schedule, the party responsible for monitoring
implementation, and the required monitoring and reporting
activities and schedule), draft Resolutions (if requested), and
draft CEQA Findings, including a Statement of Overriding
Considerations, if necessary. ESA assumes one round of
County review.
ESA will assist the County, upon request, by participating with
County staff in up to two public hearings before the Planning
Commission or else one public hearing before the Planning
Commission and, if the decision is appealed, one hearing before
the Board of Supervisors. ESA also will prepare a Notice of
Determination to be filed following certification of the Final EIR.
Task 9: Administrative Record
ESA will collect, index, and provide an electronic copy of
records for inclusion in the formal project file
(“Administrative Record”) for the Project. These materials
would be provided electronically (on CD) within 10 days after
the expiration of the appeal period or within 4 days after
receipt of the transcript for any hearing on appeal.
ESA anticipates that the Administrative Record Index and
materials to be provided by ESA will be supplemented if/as
needed by the County to include documents in the County’s
possession. The Administrative Record Index and materials
to be provided by ESA will include: Project application
B. Scope of Work, Schedule, Cost
6 esassoc.com
materials (including Project-specific studies prepared by the
Applicant), the EIR and related reference materials, public
notices, and County staff reports (including any proposed
decisions or findings submitted to the decision-making
body). Materials protected from public disclosure (such as
cultural resources reports or other confidential information)
will be provided in this deliverable. ESA does not propose to
index and scan Project-related emails as part of this scope of
work, but, if needed in the future, would be available to do so
subject to a separate scope and fee.
Task 10: Project Management
To expedite projects of this nature effectively, early and
regular communication between the County and the
Applicant will be key. ESA will facilitate coordination calls
every other week or as needed (up to 1 hour of calls per
week) for the duration of the CEQA process. ESA will seek
input from the County and the Applicant as to agenda items
and will circulate the agenda and (if requested) notes of
decision points and other key elements of the discussions.
ESA’s Project Manager will participate in these calls on a
regular basis, and anticipates that participation by other
team members may be appropriate from time to time.
ESA will work with the County and the Applicant to
determine whether any given coordination call is needed and
will cancel any (out of respect for people’s time) if
information would be as easily communicated in an email
exchange or smaller group.
ESA will circulate the Project schedule with coordination call
agendas, at regular intervals, or upon request. Written
progress reports will be provided with invoices, and can be
provided upon request.
2 Schedule
ESA is committed to meeting or beating a schedule that
provides a Final EIR for the County’s consideration within
14 months of issuance of a Notice to Proceed. Anticipated
key milestones include:
• ESA’s receipt of a fully-executed contract and Notice to
Proceed July 1, 2020,
• A kick-off meeting with the County, other interested
agencies, and the Applicant mid-July 2020,
• Receipt of all final Applicant-prepared technical studies
by the end of August 2020,
• Issuance of the Draft EIR in February 2021, and
• Publication of the Final EIR in August 2021.
A detailed schedule is provided in Table 1, attached.
ESA anticipates two schedule drivers for this Project: The
timing needed to accommodate County staff’s review of the
Administrative Draft and Final EIR, and the timing of the
County’s adoption of thresholds of significance for a vehicle
miles traveled (VMT) approach to Transportation impacts.
Timely completion of supporting technical reports and
maintenance of a stable project description will assure an on-
time EIR by providing the data needed to satisfy the County’s
CEQA needs. ESA will expedite the schedule wherever
responsibly possible.
3 Cost
ESA is committed to staying on budget and managing costs to
identify potential efficiencies throughout the process. ESA’s
pricing proposal and assumptions are provided in Table 2;
proposed deliverables and payment milestones are
identified in Table 3.
MilestoneBegin TaskComplete TaskEstimated DurationWeekend AdjustmentNotes and AssumptionsCUP application determined completeFriday, May 1, 2020Friday, May 1, 20200County contracting with LVS and with ESA Friday, May 1, 2020Tuesday, June 30, 202060County authorizes ESA to begin workWednesday, July 1, 2020Wednesday, July 1, 20200EIR kick-off meetingWednesday, July 1, 2020Wednesday, July 15, 202014Scheduled to be held within 2 weeks of NTP.Kick-off meeting specifically with County Roads & CaltransWednesday, July 15, 2020Assumes would occur on the same day as the EIR kick-off meetingAB 52 Tribal Consultation SupportFriday, July 17, 2020Friday, August 20, 2021399Scheduled to begin within 2 days of kick-off meeting and conclude (if consultation is requested) with issuance of the FEIR.Notice of Preparation Wednesday, July 15, 2020 Wednesday, July 29, 202014Scheduled to be submitted to SCH within 14 days of kick-off meeting.Scoping Meeting Thursday, August 20, 2020Scheduled to be calendared, and preferably held, mid-way through the scoping periodScoping PeriodWednesday, July 29, 2020 Friday, August 28, 202030PRC §21080.4; 14 CCR §§15082, 15103Administrative Draft Scoping Report Wednesday, July 29, 2020 Friday, September 4, 202037Scheduled to be drafted within 7 days after the close of the scoping period. Final Scoping ReportFriday, September 4, 2020 Wednesday, September 16, 2020 12Scheduled to be finalized within 5 days following a 7-day County review period.LVS-prepared tech study submittalsWednesday, July 15, 2020 Wednesday, July 29, 202014Submittal for review to start with the kick-off meeting, be complete with issuance of the NOPESA review of LVS-prepared tech studies Wednesday, July 29, 2020 Wednesday, August 12, 202014ESA review to be complete within 14 days of receiptLVS-to finalize tech studies based on input receivedWednesday, August 12, 2020 Wednesday, August 26, 202014Assumes LVS responses to any requests for clarification or supplementation would be submitted within 14 days of receipt of the request.ESA to draft ADEIR Chapter 2, Description of Project and AlternativesWednesday, July 29, 2020 Friday, September 11, 202044To begin with issuance of NOP and be submitted for review within 14 days after the close of the scoping period (or receipt of final technical study, whichever is later). LVS and County review of Description of Project and AlternativesFriday, September 11, 2020 Wednesday, September 23, 2020 12Duration assumes rolling production of data request/Applicant response if needed to allow a 12-day period for the County and Applicant to review this ADEIR chapter in near-final form.Administrative Draft EIRWednesday, September 23, 2020 Wednesday, November 18, 2020 56Scheduled to be submitted for review within 8 weeks of receipt of County- and Applicant-approved description of the project and alts. LVS and County review Admin Draft EIR Wednesday, November 18, 2020 Tuesday, January 19, 2021602 Scheduled as 60 days, per County estiamte of 30-60 day duration.ESA to revise in response to input received Tuesday, January 19, 2021 Thursday, February 4, 2021142 Scheduled as 14 days.LVS and County review of Screen check Draft EIRThursday, February 4, 2021 Thursday, February 18, 202114Scheduled as 14 days.Draft EIR Public Review PeriodTuesday, February 23, 2021 Friday, April 9, 202145Scheduled as 45 days (PRC §21091; 14 CCR §15105)Comment Meeting on Draft EIRThursday, March 25, 20210Scheduled to be held approximately 15 days before the conclusion of comment period. Admin Final EIR prepared, submittedFriday, April 9, 2021Monday, May 24, 202145Scheduled to be submitted within 45 days of the close of the comment period.LVS and County review of Admin Final EIR Monday, May 24, 2021Friday, July 23, 202160Scheduled as 60 days, per County estimate of between 30-60 daysESA to revise in response to inputFriday, July 23, 2021Friday, August 6, 202114Scheduled as 14 days.Final EIR PublishedFriday, August 6, 2021Friday, August 20, 202114P Scheduled as 14 days.Admin Draft Decision Support Documents (MMRP and staff report)Friday, August 20, 2021Friday, September 3, 202114Staff report and MMRP to be drafted in coordination with the County and submitted within 14 days of publication of the Final EIR.Planning Commission MeetingMonday, October 18, 202145Assumes hearing would be held within 45 days after decision documents are prepared.Notice of DeterminationMonday, October 18, 2021 Monday, October 25, 202152 Assumes would be filed within 5 days after the decisionBoard of Supervisors Appeal Hearing, if neededFriday, December 17, 202160Assumes any appeal would be heard within 60 days after Planning Commission hearing.Administrative Record Index and MaterialsFriday, January 7, 202221Assumes would be submitted within 5 days after the transcript of Board of Supervisors Meeting becomes available.Schedule - Luna Valley Solar ProjectEnvironmental Impact ReportTable 1
Table 2: Cost ProposalESA Labor Detail and Expense Summary Labor CategoryDirector III Managing Associate III Managing Associate II Senior Associate III Senior Associate II Associate II Associate I SubtotalProject Technician III Project Technician II Project Technician I SubtotalTotal Hours Labor PriceTask # Task Name/Description240$ 205$ 190$ 170$ 160$ 125$ 105$ 120$ 100$ 85$ 1 Review of Applicant Studies-$ -$ - -$ Aesthetics (with simulations)245,760$ -$ 24.00 5,760$ LESA6960$ -$ 6.00 960$ AQ & GHG61,230$ -$ 6.00 1,230$ Biological Resources102,400$ -$ 10.00 2,400$ Cultural and Tribal4760$ -$ 4.00 760$ Paleo Study4760$ -$ 4.00 760$ Water Supply Assessment4960$ -$ 4.00 960$ Noise Report4820$ -$ 4.00 820$ Transportation Study4820$ -$ 4.00 820$ 2 Project Kick-off-$ -$ - -$ 2.1 Project-specific Distribution List12455$ -$ 3.00 455$ 2.2 Notices of Preparation and Completion12455$ -$ 3.00 455$ 2.3 Kick-off meetings & Site Visit81084,970$ -$ 26.00 4,970$ 3 Scoping-$ -$ - -$ 3.1 Scoping Meeting and Materials124011,080$ -$ 52.00 11,080$ 3.2 Agency Scoping102,050$ -$ 10.00 2,050$ 3.3 Scoping Report2253810,355$ 3360$ 68.00 10,715$ 4 Administrative Draft EIR-$ -$ - -$ Technical Analysis42130646200445218160,425$ -$ 1,105.00 160,425$ QA/QC, editing, WP, production 24242413,320$ 6720$ 78.00 14,040$ 5 Draft EIR and Notices-$ -$ - -$ 5.1 Screencheck Draft EIR4123,240$ 1120$ 17.00 3,360$ 5.2 Draft EIR181,760$ 12320$ 12.00 2,080$ 5.2 Public Notices2250$ -$ 2.00 250$ 6 Administrative Final EIR-$ -$ - -$ 6.1 Comment meeting1083,400$ -$ 18.00 3,400$ 6.2 Responses to Comments44123,220$ 4480$ 24.00 3,700$ 7 Final EIR-$ -$ - -$ Revisions6482,820$ -$ 18.00 2,820$ QA/QC, editing, WP, production 451,585$ 32560$ 14.00 2,145$ 8 Decision Support-$ -$ - -$ Draft Staff Report118246,660$ 1120$ 44.00 6,780$ MMRP2405,410$ 1120$ 43.00 5,530$ Draft Resolutions3615$ -$ 3.00 615$ Draft CEQA Findings24247,920$ 1120$ 49.00 8,040$ Notices2250$ -$ 2.00 250$ 9 Administrative Record1486,205$ -$ 49.00 6,205$ 10 Project Management757026,750$ -$ 145.00 26,750$ -$ -$ - -$ -$ -$ - -$ Total Hours 225 261 144 10 206 762 218 182621 4 - 251,851 Total Labor Costs54,000$ 53,505$ 27,360$ 1,700$ 32,960$ 95,250$ 22,890$ 287,665$ 2,520$ 400$ -$ 2,920$ 290,585$ Percent of Effort - Labor Hours Only12.2% 14.1% 7.8% 0.5% 11.1% 41.2% 11.8%98.6%1.1% 0.2% 0.0%1.4%100.0%Percent of Effort - Total Project Cost 18.3% 18.1% 9.3% 0.6% 11.2% 32.3% 7.8% 0.9% 0.1% 0.0% 98.5% ESA Labor Cost290,585$ Labor Cost Communication Fee 0% -$ ESA Non-Labor ExpensesReimbursable Expenses (see Attachment A for detail)4,565$ ESA Equipment Usage (see Attachment A for detail)-$ Subtotal ESA Non-Labor Expenses 4,565$ PROJECT TOTAL295,150$ Page 1
Attachment A
Cost Proposal: ESA Non-Labor Expenses Summary
75$
1,800$
100$
440$
2,150$
-$
-$
-$
-$
-$
-$
-$
Subtotal Reimbursable Expenses 4,565$
0% Fee on Reimbursable Expenses -$
Total Reimbursable Expenses 4,565$
ESA Equipment Usage
General Equipment:
Company Vehicle Usage -$
HP Plotter -$
Computer Time (GIS)-$
Trimble GPS -$
Tablet GPS -$
Laser level -$
Garmin GPS or equivalent -$
Laptop Computers -$
LCD Projector -$
Noise Meter -$
Electrofisher -$
Sample Pump -$
Surveying Kit -$
Total Station Set -$
Field Traps -$
Digital Planimeter -$
Cameras/Video/Cell Phone -$
Miscellaneous Small Equipment -$
Stilling Well/Coring Pipe (3 inch aluminum)-$
Hydrologic Data Collection, Water Current, Level and Wave Measurement Equipment:
Culvert Flow Meter -$
Logging Rain Gage -$
Marsh-McBirney Hand-Held Current Meter -$
Logging Water Level Logging-Stainless Steel Pressure Transducer -$
Logging Water Level -Titanium Pressure Transducer -$
Logging Barometric Pressure Logger -$
Well Probe -$
Bottom-Mounted Tripod / Mooring -$
Water Quality Equipment:
Logging Turbidimeter/Water Level Recorder -$
Logging Temperature Probe -$
Hach Hand-Held Turbidimeter Recording Conductivity Meter w/Datalogger -$
Refractometer -$
YSI Hand-Held Salinity Meter -$
Hand-Held Conductivity/Dissolved Oxygen Probe -$
Sedimentation / Geotechnical Equipment:
Peat Corer -$
60lb Helly-Smith Bedload Sampler with Bridge Crane -$
Suspended Sediment Sampler with Bridge Crane -$
Vibra-core -$
Shear Strength Vane -$
Auger (brass core @ $ 5/each -$
Boats:
14 foot Aluminum Boas with 15 HP Outboard Motor -$
Single or Double Person Canoe -$
17' Boston Whaler w/ 90 HP Outboard -$
Total Equipment Usage Costs -$
TOTAL NON-LABOR EXPENSES 4,565$
Reimbursable Expenses
Project Supplies
Printing/Reproduction
Document and Map Reproductions (CD + Digital Photo)
Other Travel Related
-
-
-
Postage and Deliveries
Mileage
Vehicle Rental
Lodging
Airfare
Senior Director III Average 99.59$ Senior Director III 300.00$
Senior Director II Average 80.78$ Senior Director II 280.00$
Senior Director I Average 65.87$ Senior Director I 265.00$
Director III Average 71.17$ Director III 240.00$
Director II Average 60.35$ Director II 225.00$
Director I Average 51.56$ Director I 210.00$
Managing Associate III Average 56.02$ Managing Associate III 205.00$
Managing Associate II Average 47.10$ Managing Associate II 190.00$
Managing Associate I Average 41.12$ Managing Associate I 175.00$
Senior Associate III Average 43.55$ Senior Associate III 170.00$
Senior Associate II Average 37.45$ Senior Associate II 160.00$
Senior Associate I Average 33.17$ Senior Associate I 150.00$
Associate III Average 33.03$ Associate III 135.00$
Associate II Average 28.67$ Associate II 125.00$
Associate I Average 23.45$ Associate I 105.00$
Project Technician III Average 40.37$ Project Technician III 120.00$
Project Technician II Average 29.90$ Project Technician II 100.00$
Project Technician I Average 20.12$ Project Technician I 85.00$
Direct Labor Rate Averages Fully-Burdened Hourly Rates
$ 20,660.50 7.0%
295,150.00$ 100%TOTALS
Table 3
$ 44,272.50 15.0%Administrative Draft Responses to Comments
Administrative Draft Revisions to DEIR, if needed
Draft NOC
Screen check Draft EIR
Draft EIR
Draft Notice of Availability (NOA) and NOC
$ 50,175.50 17.0%
Project-specific distribution list
Scoping Report
$ 20,660.50 7.0%
Kick-off meeting agenda and materials
Draft Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
Draft Resolutions
Draft CEQA Findings
Notice of Determination (NOD)
$ 20,660.50 7.0%
$ 35,418.00 12.0%
Screencheck Final EIR
Final EIR
Contract Deliverable 8 Task 8, Decision Support
Draft Staff Report
22.0%
Administrative Draft EIR
Contract Deliverable 6 Task 6, Administrative Final EIR
Draft NOA
Contract Deliverables - Luna Valley Solar Project
Flat fee to be paid in nine installments, one for each of nine contract deliverables.
Environmental Impact Report and CEQA Process
Two (2) re-review memoranda, if needed
Contract Deliverable 7 Task 7, Final EIR
Nine (9) review memoranda, one for each of nine studies10.0% $ 29,515.00
Contract Deliverable 3 Task 3, Scoping
Contract Deliverable 4 Task 4, Administrative Draft EIR
Contract Deliverable 5 Task 5, Draft EIR and Notices
$ 64,933.00
Proof of newspaper notification
Notice of Preparation (NOP) and Notice of Completion (NOC)
Contract Deliverable 1 Task 1, Review of Applicant Studies
Contract Deliverable 2 Task 2, Project Kick-off
Application, Technical Studies, and decision documents supporting
the EIR
Searchable Index of Materials
$ 8,854.50 3.0%
Contract Deliverable 9 Task 9, Administrative Record
References relied upon in the EIR
EXHIBIT C
EXTRA SERVICES
Extra Services shall be limited to those services reasonably necessary to complete the
project work that County and Consultant mutually agree were not anticipated during the
preparation of the work program proposal, when a request to perform such services was
submitted by the Consultant and approved in writing by the Director or his designee
prior to their performance.
In addition to the services addressed above, the Consultant shall have a legitimate
basis pursuant to the provisions of the Consultant Agreement to request either
authorization to provide Extra Services or a revision to the Work Program, Cost
Estimate, and Work Schedule of the Agreement if any of the following occur:
1.County makes material modifications to the project subsequent to the approval of
the Agreement, which necessitate making substantial and material changes in
the project analysis, text tables, maps or figures.
2.Modifications are required to the Work Program due to comments received in
response to the Notice of Preparation of the Draft EIR or public review of the
project documents.
3.Technical, engineering, design, or other studies not specified in the Work
Program are required for project analysis, mitigation measures or programs, the
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, responses to comments on the
Draft EIR, or other purposes.
4.In the event the project and/or the EIR is subject to litigation, additional work
associated with the litigation is required such as reviewing or responding to
briefs, giving depositions and appearing in court.
The total sum of compensation for Extra Services shall be limited to the amount
deemed sufficient by the Director or his designee following discussion of the proposed
scope of additional work with the Consultant which shall include representations made
by the Consultant as to the reasonably-expected amount of time that will be required to
fully perform all Extra Services discussed in said meetings(s) or telephone conferences.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC
WORKS AND PLANNING
Exhibit “E” is a copy of Resolution #99-086 adopted by the Board of Supervisors
on February 23, 1999 that references California Code of Regulations Section
18730. Consultants are listed on Exhibit A of the Resolution with the following
note:
* Consultants shall be included in the list of designated employees and shall
disclose pursuant to the broadest disclosure category in the code subject to the
following limitation: The Director of Public Works and Planning may determine in
writing that a particular consultant, although a “designated position”, is hired to
perform a range of duties that is limited in scope and thus is not fully required to
comply with the disclosure requirements of this section. Such written
determination shall include a description of the consultant’s duties and, based on
that description, a statement of the extent of disclosure requirements. The
Director of Public Works and Planning’s determination is a public record and
shall be retained for public inspection in the same manner and location as this
Conflict of Interest Code.
EXHIBIT D
SELF-DEALING TRANSACTION DISCLOSURE FORM
In order to conduct business with the County of Fresno (hereinafter referred to as “County”),
members of a contractor’s board of directors (hereinafter referred to as “County Contractor”), must
disclose any self-dealing transactions that they are a party to while providing goods, performing
services, or both for the County. A self-dealing transaction is defined below:
“A self-dealing transaction means a transaction to which the corporation is a party and in which one
or more of its directors has a material financial interest”
The definition above will be utilized for purposes of completing this disclosure form.
INSTRUCTIONS
(1) Enter board member’s name, job title (if applicable), and date this disclosure is being made.
(2) Enter the board member’s company/agency name and address.
(3) Describe in detail the nature of the self-dealing transaction that is being disclosed to the
County. At a minimum, include a description of the following:
a.The name of the agency/company with which the corporation has the transaction; and
b.The nature of the material financial interest in the Corporation’s transaction that the
board member has.
(4) Describe in detail why the self-dealing transaction is appropriate based on applicable
provisions of the Corporations Code.
(5) Form must be signed by the board member that is involved in the self-dealing transaction
described in Sections (3) and (4).
EXHIBIT E
(1) Company Board Member Information:
Name: Date:
Job Title:
(2) Company/Agency Name and Address:
(3) Disclosure (Please describe the nature of the self-dealing transaction you are a party to):
(4) Explain why this self-dealing transaction is consistent with the requirements of Corporations Code 5233 (a):
(5) Authorized Signature
Signature: Date: