Construction Plan Report PDF

CONSTRUCTION PLAN REPORT
PREPARED BY: REFERGY CANADA INC.

KAP SOLAR PARK
ONTARIO SOLAR PV FIELDS 7 LP

CONST_REFERGY2011KAP_VERSION7 2 | P age

ONTARIO SOLAR PV FIELDS 7 LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

CONSTRUCTION PLAN REPORT
Prepared by REFERGY Canada Inc.

KAP SOLAR PARK
August 25
th
, 2011

Developer Contact Information -

REFERGY Canada Inc.
330 Byron St S
Whitby ON L1N 4P8

Phone: +1 (905) 493-3440
Fax: +1 (905) 493-2331
E-Mail: ospvf07_kap@refergy.com
Website: www.refergy.com

Owner Contact Information -

Ontario Solar PV Fields Inc.
c/o Photowatt Ontario
730 Fountain Street North
Cambridge ON N3H 4R7

Phone: +1 (519) 650-6535
E-Mail: info@ontariosolarpvfields.com
Website: www.ontariosolarpvfields.com

DISCLAIMER
This report has been prepared solely in connection with the Renewable Energy Approval (REA) process, involving submissions to
the Ministry of the Environment (MOE), on behalf of Ontario Solar PV Fields 11 Limited Partnership (the Partnership),
pursuant to applicable regulations. The content of this document, and /or the fact that it has been posted and subsequently
submitted, is not intended to be used or relied upon by any third party. None of the Partnership, the entities comprising the
Partnership, REFERGY Canada Inc. and/or any of their respective affiliated pr partners, the entities comprising of the
Partnership, REFERGY Canada Inc. and/or any of their affiliates or partners shall have any liability whatsoever (by reason of
negligence or otherwise) for any harm or loss suffered by any third parties (including without limitation incurred legal or other
costs) who rely upon this document, and any such liability is expressly denied.


TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES ...................................................................................................................................... 6
LIST OF TABLES ........................................................................................................................................ 6
1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 7
2.0 DESCRIPTION OF CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION ACTIVITIES ................................................... 10
2.1 Site Preparation ........................................................................................................................... 10
2.1.1 General Property Clearing ..................................................................................................... 10
2.1.2 Minimal Grading and Surface Water Drainage ....................................................................... 10
2.1.3 Fencing ................................................................................................................................. 11
2.1.4 Roads .................................................................................................................................... 11
2.1.5 Staging Area .......................................................................................................................... 11
2.2 Electrical Underground ................................................................................................................ 12
2.2.1 Trenching and Underground Wiring ...................................................................................... 12
2.2.2 Inverter and Transformer Foundation ................................................................................... 12
2.2.3 Collector Substation .............................................................................................................. 13
2.3 Foundations and Racking Tables .................................................................................................. 13
2.4 Module Installation ...................................................................................................................... 14
Module Wiring ............................................................................................................................... 14
2.5 Storage Plans and Duration .......................................................................................................... 15
2.6 Commissioning/Testing ................................................................................................................ 15
2.7 Timing of Construction, Installation and Operational Plans .......................................................... 15
Timeline of Construction Activities ................................................................................................. 16
2.8 Construction Equipment Used ..................................................................................................... 16
Description of Anticipated Construction Equipment and Machinery............................................... 17
2.9 Traffic .......................................................................................................................................... 18
2.10 Temporary Uses of Land ............................................................................................................ 18
2.10.1 Current Land Use Description .............................................................................................. 18
2.10.2 Land Use for Construction Purposes .................................................................................... 19
2.10.3 Timing and Duration ............................................................................................................ 19
2.11 Materials and Equipment Delivery ............................................................................................. 19
2.12 Seasonal Timing ......................................................................................................................... 19


3.0 DESCRIPTION OF NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ................................................................... 19
3.1 Noise Disturbance ........................................................................................................................ 20
3.1.1 Noise Emitters ....................................................................................................................... 20
3.1.2 Noise Considerations and the Public...................................................................................... 20
3.1.3 Noise Considerations and Wildlife ......................................................................................... 21
3.2 Dust ............................................................................................................................................. 21
3.3 Spills and Chemicals ..................................................................................................................... 21
3.4 Alteration of Current Land Conditions .......................................................................................... 21
3.5 Storm Water Runoff ..................................................................................................................... 22
3.6 Materials Generated at, or Transported from the Project Location .............................................. 22
4.0 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HERITAGE, NATURAL HERITAGE AND WATER BODIES ................................. 23
4.1 Archaeological and Heritage Resources ........................................................................................ 23
4.1.1 Stage 1 Archaeological Investigation Determinations ............................................................ 23
4.1.2 Stage 2 Archaeological Investigation Determinations ............................................................ 23
4.2 Natural Heritage .......................................................................................................................... 23
4.2.1 Records Review Determinations ............................................................................................ 23
4.2.2 Site Investigation Determinations.......................................................................................... 24
4.3 Water Bodies ............................................................................................................................... 24
4.3.1 Records Review ..................................................................................................................... 25
4.3.2 Site Investigation................................................................................................................... 25
5.0 NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS MITIGATION MEASURES ....................................................... 25
5.1 Noise Disturbance ........................................................................................................................ 25
5.1.1 Noise Emitters ....................................................................................................................... 25
5.1.2 Noise Considerations and the Public...................................................................................... 26
5.1.3 Noise Studies ........................................................................................................................ 26
5.1.4 Noise Considerations and Wildlife ......................................................................................... 27
5.2 Dust ............................................................................................................................................. 27
5.3 Spills Action Plan .......................................................................................................................... 28
Chemicals ...................................................................................................................................... 29
5.4 Alteration of Current Land Conditions .......................................................................................... 30
Surface Water Drainage and Site Grading ...................................................................................... 31
5.5 Sediment and Erosion Control ...................................................................................................... 31


Light-Duty Straw Bale Barrier ......................................................................................................... 31
Light-Duty Silt Fence ...................................................................................................................... 32
5.6 General Monitoring ..................................................................................................................... 32
5.6.1 Construction ......................................................................................................................... 32
5.6.2 Operation.............................................................................................................................. 32
5.6.3 Decommissioning .................................................................................................................. 32
5.6.4 Adaptive Management .......................................................................................................... 32
5.7 Materials Generated at, or Transported from the Project Location .............................................. 33
REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................................... 34


LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 - Geographical location of Kapuskasing, Ontario (Natural Resources Canada, 2011). .................. 9

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1 - Construction and installation activity timeline and duration. ................................................... 16
Table 2 - Construction/installation equipment and machinery. .............................................................. 17
Table 3 Approximate vehicle traffic per phase. ................................................................................... 18


1.0 INTRODUCTION

Ontario Solar PV Fields Inc. (OSPV) is a joint venture between Photowatt Ontario (an ATS company) and
Q-Cells. OSPV is proposing to develop a solar park (Legal Project Entity: Ontario Solar PV Fields 7
Limited Partnership), hereby referred to as Kap Solar Park, and has engaged REFERGY Canada Inc.
(REFERGY) as the solar park project developer responsible for all pre-construction approvals.
OSPV is proposing to construct and install a 6 megawatt (MW) solar park in North-eastern Ontario in the
town of Kapuskasing (OBrien Township) within the Cochrane District. The facility will be a non-polluting
method in producing electricity to homes, buildings and businesses alike in and around the region.
The selected property is privately owned. The total usable area is approximately 40 hectares and is
classified as Class 3 and above land under the Canada Land Inventory (CLI). The property is situated
south of Highway 11; the nearest intersection is Brunelle Rd. South and Stevens Rd. The land is
currently in use for agricultural or logging purposes. There are no buildings, structures, or installations
of any kind on the leased property, with the following exceptions:
Trees
Bushes/shrubs
The proposed facility will encompass an area approximately 375 m (east-west) by 455 meters (north-
south), with a total project location area of approximately 183,109 m
2
, and will consist of various rows
of solar module arrays mounted on fixed steel racking systems.
The primary technology consists of photovoltaic (PV) arrays mounted on fixed steel racking systems.
The PV arrays are connected to inverters used to convert the electrical current from direct current (DC)
to alternating current (AC) enabling the electricity to be connected to the grid for transmission and use.
A number of activities, many of which are mandated under Ontario Regulation 359/09 (O. Reg. 359/09),
are involved in the Renewable Energy Approval (REA) process. These activities form the basis of the REA
technical reporting requirements including the Construction Plan, Design and Operations and
Decommissioning Plan Reports. The main components of the REA process consists of archaeological,
environmental, geotechnical, surveying and noise study investigations, as well as associated
engagements and consultations with aboriginal, Mtis and public communities.
The main sections in the CONSTRUCTION PLAN REPORT include, but are not limited to the following bulleted
items:
Details of any construction and installation activities
Location and timing of any construction or installation activities for the duration of the
construction and installation
Negative environmental effects that may result from construction and installation activities
Within a 300 m radius of these activities
Mitigation measures in respect of any negative environmental effects


In its operating stage, the solar farm is a passive facility creating no emissions, little noise and will
require minimal maintenance. During the decommissioning process many of the components of the
solar park will be reused and recycled by the project owner, while ensuring the land is reverted to its
original state.
This CONSTRUCTION PLAN REPORT has been prepared in accordance with requirements as listed in O. Reg.
359/09, TECHNICAL BULLETIN #3 GUIDANCE FOR PREPARING THE CONSTRUCTION PLAN REPORT AS PART OF AN
APPLICATION UNDER O. REG. 359/09, as well as relevant ongoing discussions with government authorities
as procedures and criteria are amended from time to time.
NOTICE:
At this time of submission two (2) inverter station options have been identified: the SMA Sunny Central
1000MV (2 x SC-500HE-11 inverters) and the Satcon Prism Platform - Equinox 1.25MW (2 x Satcon
Equinox 625kW inverters). The sound levels from both inverter stations have been reviewed, and both
meet the required sound level limits specified in MOE NPC-232.
The final selection of one (1) inverter station, which will occur prior to Renewable Energy Approval
(REA), will take into account product availability and compliance with Ontario FIT Domestic Content
Requirements. Care has been taken in the Solar Park design such that there would be no material design
impact based upon the final inverter station selection. Selecting either inverter station would not
change the inverter station locations or the inverter access plan. The final choice will also not impact the
locations of any other facility components such as modules, access roads, fences, etc.
While the Satcon inverter station is specified with a capacity greater than 1 MW, the output capacity of
these inverter stations would be limited to 1 MW to correspond with the block sizes provided in the
project design.


Figure 1 - Geographical location of Kapuskasing, Ontario (Natural Resources Canada, 2011).


2.0 DESCRIPTION OF CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION ACTIVITIES

The construction of the solar farm will begin after all applicable approvals and permits have been
obtained and have received the associated confirmation from ministries and other regulating
authorities. It is anticipated the construction phase of the project will last approximately six months
and require an average workforce of 60 employees, with a peak workforce of approximately 100. Every
effort will be made to recruit a local construction workforce.
Construction of the proposed solar park is composed of five main phases:
Site preparation
Electrical underground
Foundations and racking
Module installation
Commissioning/testing
Also provided in this section of the CONSTRUCTION PLAN REPORT is the timing of construction and
installation, operational plans, construction equipment to be used, and temporary uses of land. Unless
otherwise identified, all references towards sheets are contained within Appendix B Design
Documentation.
2.1 Site Preparation
2.1.1 GENERAL PROPERTY CLEARING
The first phase of the construction process is the site preparation. To prepare the land, crops will
be harvested or mowed. Any existing trees or shrubs which could potentially negatively impact
the development of the solar park, or reduce the efficiency of the facility due to shading, will be
removed by a grader. Larger trees and shrubs will be removed with a dozer. Where possible,
wood from larger trees will be salvaged and sold locally, while smaller trees or shrubs removed
from the site will be disposed of in a local landfill.
2.1.2 MINIMAL GRADING AND SURFACE WATER DRAINAGE
Dozers, graders and scrapers will flatten mounds and fill low areas to ensure proper drainage for
the site. Extensive grading of the land will be avoided and drainage for the site will be designed in
accordance with the natural slope of the land. Immediately after grading is complete, the
affected areas will be re-vegetated to reduce the potential for erosion using farm tractors with
seeder attachments. OPPS 804 old field mix will be planted on this site. A water truck may be
used to provide water for the seed until its root system is fully established, but normal
precipitation in the area is expected to sufficiently maintain the proposed vegetation.


Refer to sheet C.101 Drainage Plan for further information.
Additional erosion control best management practices will be implemented for the site, including
silt fences, straw bales, and straw wattles as necessary.
2.1.3 FENCING
A perimeter site fence and access gate consisting of galvanized steel posts, chain link fencing, and
barbed wire will be installed. As depicted on sheet C.200 Civil Details I, the perimeter site fence
will be constructed as per Ontario Provincial Standards Drawings 972.101 and 972.130. Each post
hole will be excavated to a depth of approximately 1 m and filled with concrete directly from the
concrete truck. Galvanized steel posts will be set in the concrete and held in place straight and
plumb with braces until the concrete is able to support the posts. The chain link fencing will then
be unrolled, pulled tight, and secured to the posts using wire clips. Brace rails and turnbuckles
will be installed at the corners to give the fencing additional rigidity, and angled brackets will be
attached to the tops of each post. Barbed wire will be strung across the angled brackets and
attached using wire clips.
ADDITIONAL FENCING SPECIFICATIONS
Approximate length of fencing =1,170 m
Approximate number of posts =390 posts
2.1.4 ROADS
Several private roads will be constructed inside the perimeter of the facility using dozers, graders
and scrapers to allow for periodic maintenance of the facilitys equipment. Construction of the
interior roads will begin after the general site clearing is complete. To construct the roads, non-
compacted soil located under the footprint of the road will be excavated. Using graders and
dozers, this soil will be excavated to a depth of approximately 0.60 m, while extending over the
entire 3.5 m width of the road. After the excavation of the road areas is complete, a geotextile
layer will be placed on the subgrade for additional soil stabilization and drainage efficiency.
The geotextile layer will be sloped to a perforated drain pipe approximately 15 cm in diameter to
remove excess water from the roadway subsurface. To form the subsurface of the road, granular
A and B secured from a local source will be delivered to the site using dump trucks. Graders
and dozers will spread the granular in 15 cm lifts for compaction by the roller until the road is built
up to its final thickness and slope.
Refer to the sheet C.100 Access Plan for more information on interior access roads.
ADDITIONAL ROAD SPECIFICATIONS
Approximate length of interior access road = 1,400 m
Approximate quantity of granular A and B =2,628 tons
2.1.5 STAGING AREA
The staging area is located within the perimeter fence of the solar park, but outside of the
footprint of the solar arrays. The staging area will contain the construction office trailer, material


storage containers, and provide parking for site worker vehicles. The staging area will be
constructed with granular materials similar to the gravel road detailed on sheet C.200 Civil
Details I and will be maintained as required throughout the construction phase of the project.
ADDITIONAL STAGING AREA SPECIFICATIONS
Approximate staging area =10,455 m
2

o Length =205 m
o Width =51 m
Approximate quantity of granular A and B =5,606 tons
The staging area is depicted on sheet A.103 Site Plan.
2.2 Electrical Underground
2.2.1 TRENCHING AND UNDERGROUND WIRING
Once the site is prepared, burying of the underground DC and AC wiring will occur. Excavators will
be used to dig the trenches for this wiring, with approximate trench dimensions of 1.2 m deep by
0.6 m wide. Spoils from the trenching will be placed next to the trenches for later use as backfill.
Cable reels placed on farm trailers will be used to quickly distribute the cable throughout the
trenches. As indicated in the diagram on sheet E.200 Electrical Details, the distance from the
ground surface to the beginning of the select backfill will be approximately 52.5 cm, while the 600
VAC and fiber optics will be located a minimum of 7.5 cm below this depth, as well as being
positioned approximately 7.5 cm from the outer walls of the undisturbed earth. Both the bare
cable and AC cabling will be located at a depth of greater than 1 m, with a minimum separation
between the cabling and earth fill material of 7.5 cm. After the wiring is installed, dozers and
excavators will be used to backfill and compact these trenches.
ADDITIONAL WIRING SPECIFICATIONS
DC home run cable from the combiner boxes to the inverter stations 7,224 m
600 VAC cable providing auxiliary power to the inverter stations 2,839 m
Fiber optic cabling for system communications 5,676 m
AC cable primary cabling from the inverter stations to the collector station 2,839 m
*The above wiring lenths are estimates.
2.2.2 INVERTER AND TRANSFORMER FOUNDATION
Precast or cast-in-place concrete pads will act as support for the inverters and transformers. Each
inverter station will require one of these support pads, which are approximately 10.0 m x 4.0 m x
0.25 m in size (7 in total include the support pad needed for the collector substation). Precast or
cast-in-place concrete vaults will provide access for easier connection of wiring to the equipment
and will be installed throughout the site. In order to ensure proper drainage away from the
inverter stations, the concrete vaults will remain above the water table and will be installed on
elevated areas throughout the site. These raised areas, which will occur at each inverter station,
will be constructed using a dozer. A series of substrate types will be used to elevate these
components and are listed in order as follows: Approximately 15 cm of granular A over 45 cm


of granular B, all installed over a vapour barrier which sits on top of native material. The
drainage slope will be typical for all sides of the elevated portion at a maximum gradient of 4:1.
The final pad layout has been designed according to the site-specific conditions. As well, topsoil
and hydroseed will be applied around the foundation and graded area for further support, erosion
control, and naturalization if necessary.
The arrival of the inverter and transformer assemblies will be scheduled so the equipment can be
offloaded from the delivery truck directly to the support pad, where they will be secured in place.
Refer to Appendix C Equipment and Component Specifications for inverter and transformer
specifications. Information related to the concrete vaults is located in sheet S.200 Structural
Details II.
INVERTERS AND TRANSFORMERS
6 medium voltage inverter stations (SMA Sunny Central 1000MV or Satcon Prism
Platform Equinox 1.25MW, please see Inverter Note in 1.0 Introduction)
25.0 kVA Step Up Transformer 6 each (1 per station)
Refer to sheet A.103 Site Plan for the locations of the inverters and transformers.
2.2.3 COLLECTOR SUBSTATION
One collector substation will be required for the solar park project. The collector substation will
be similar in size and thickness to that of the inverter station. The collector substation will require
a vault, as well as being installed on an elevated area in the same fashion needed for the inverters
and transformers (refer to section 2.2.2 INVERTER AND TRANSFORMER FOUNDATION). Its substrate will
consist of approximately 15 cm of granular A over 45 cm of granular B, all installed over a
vapour barrier which sits on top of native material. The drainage slope will be typical for all sides
of the elevated portion at a maximum gradient of 4:1. Refer to sheet E.200 Electrical Details for
further information relating to the collector substation.
COLLECTOR SUBSTATION
Medium Voltage Collector Substation 1 station
o 125 VDC battery +charger
o Control building
o Revenue meter
o Feeder cabling
o Motor operated switch
Refer to sheet A.103 Site Plan for the location of the collector substation.
2.3 Foundations and Racking Tables

Installation of the foundation and racking systems follows the electrical underground work. The
support system holding the solar modules in place consists of multiple foundation and racking


assemblies referred to as tables. Foundation systems will include galvanized steel posts, H-piles, or
helical piles and will be driven into the ground to support the tables the modules are attached to.
Galvanized steel posts and helical piles usually range from 3 to 5 , depending on the loading design
and soil conditions. The standard H-pile size is approximately 6. The final results from the geological
investigations has determined that the preferred foundation to be utilized would be 6x6 H-piles driven
into the ground approximately 1.5 m to 2.0 m deep by a track driven hydraulic ram. In ideal conditions,
approximately 250 pile driven posts per day can be achieved with one machine. These foundation
systems will minimize disturbance of the existing soil on the site and can be easily removed when the
facility is decommissioned.
The foundations and racking systems will be delivered by trucks to the project location, while forklifts,
farm tractors and farm trailers will be used to distribute the foundation and racking materials. Once the
foundation support posts are installed, workers will complete the balance of the racking support system
by hand. Portable generators will be used to charge spare batteries for hand tools required to tighten
screws and bolts on the racking system.
The typical foundation and racking table layout is located in sheet A.103 Site Plan. Additional
foundation and racking information is contained in sheets E.100 Typical Block Layout and S.100
Structural Details I.
2.4 Module Installation

Once the onsite foundation and racking portion of the tables is complete, installation of the solar
modules will commence. Several trucks loaded with solar modules will be scheduled to arrive on the
site at the beginning of each work week. Forklifts, farm tractors, and farm trailers will be used to
distribute the modules throughout the site. Man-lift operators and on-the-ground workers will hoist
each module into place and secure them with clips.
MODULE WIRING
Solar modules are manufactured with positive and negative wire leads, each 0.9 m long,
connected to the rear of the module. These wire leads are also equipped with connector
couplings, allowing electricians to quickly join the wires together from adjacent modules in a
series to form an electrical string. Electricians route the wires from each string to the combiner
boxes, which are mounted on the racking at the center of each row. The strings located in the
combiner boxes are combined into one electrical output that is then fed underground to the
inverter.
#10 CU string wiring approximately 137,772 m
SOLARMODULES
Photowatt PW2300 230 watt modules 30,480 in total
COMBINER BOXES
Solar BOS 100VDC combiner boxes 96 in total


See Appendix C Equipment and Component Specifications for further information.
2.5 Storage Plans and Duration

Deliveries for all components for the proposed solar farm will be arranged to minimize the storage
required on site. Transit times to the project location will be easily identified as most components will
be manufactured within Ontario. It is anticipated solar module deliveries will be limited to
approximately 2,500 to 3,000 pieces to ensure installation on the delivery day. This approach minimizes
the risk of theft and damage to the modules. Other larger system components, such as the inverters,
transformers and the collector substation are also coordinated so no onsite storage is required.
Where needed, some system components will be stored on site for approximately a month until they
are installed. These items include the chain link fencing, electrical cabling, foundations and racking
materials. All materials will be stored onsite within the perimeter fencing of the project location, with
the majority placed in a lockable storage bin located at the construction staging area.
Materials requiring distribution across specific areas of the site upon arrival will be managed
accordingly, while all other offloading will take place at the construction staging area. Refer to sheet
A.103 Site Plan for further clarification.
Keeping all materials stored in one location will allow for more accurate monitoring of quantities on
hand and also provides for tighter security.
2.6 Commissioning/ Testing

Commissioning and testing of the solar facility occurs once the installation of the system is complete,
but before connection to the electric utility companys distribution grid. During this process, a complete
review and inspection of the completed system is performed. Components are tested and calibrated to
ensure they are performing as designed. Cables are tested to ensure they went undamaged during the
construction process and all wiring terminations are checked for connectivity. Specially trained
technicians and manufacturer representatives verify their components were installed and performing
properly. This will include checking inverter efficiency and output. Additionally, the automated
disconnect at the collector substation is tested to ensure the solar farm can be disengaged from the
electric utility companys distribution grid if necessary. All commissioning and testing activities
conducted are documented and compiled into a final report for future reference.
2.7 Timing of Construction, Installation and Operational Plans

Typical construction work hours are expected to be from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
Additional hours may be required depending upon project scheduling and progress. All construction
work that takes place outside these typical hours will comply with county and municipal standards and
by-laws for construction noise levels.


TIMELINE OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES
As depicted in the Gantt chart below, the site preparation will take approximately 8 weeks, while
the electrical underground trenching and installation will take place over the course of
approximately 4 weeks. Subsequently the lengthiest portions of the construction process will
follow; the foundation and racking, and module installation. These activities will be
approximately a 20 week process in total. Lastly, the commissioning and testing portion of the
construction phase will take place, which should take approximately 4 weeks to complete.

2.8 Construction Equipment Used

Various pieces of equipment will be required to construct the proposed solar farm. Only qualified
individuals with the proper credentials will be allowed to operate machinery on site. It is anticipated
most pieces of equipment, with the exception of dump, pickup and water trucks, will be delivered and
removed from the site on a flatbed trailer.
The main functions of the construction and installation equipment consists of the distribution of
materials, site and road preparation (including excavation and trench backfilling), general
transportation, module and foundation installation and safety control mechanisms for dust. As depicted
below, facility materials will be distributed using 4 wheel drive forklifts and farm equipment such as
tractors and trailers. General road and site preparation, excavation and trench backfilling will
incorporate the operation of dozers, dump trucks, excavators, graders, as well as rollers. The primary
mode of onsite transportation will be ATVs. Module and foundation installation will be achieved via
man-lift and pile driver machinery. While all of the above construction and installation activities are
taking place, control mechanisms for dust will be strictly adhered to consisting mainly of onsite water
trucks for timely deployment.
Equipment will be parked overnight at the project location. The list below estimates the quantity and
type of equipment to be implemented over multiple weeks and the phases in which the machinery is
required.

Table 1 - Construction and installation activity timeline and duration.


DESCRIPTION OF ANTICIPATED CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY
o 4WD Fork Lift 28 4WD reach fork; 5,000 lbs
o ATV Vehicles Kubota 4WD utility vehicle; 2,000 lbs
o Dozer Cat D8 dozer; 80,000lbs
o Dump Truck 5yd dump truck; 20,000 lbs
o Excavator Cat 330B excavator; 71,500 lbs
o Farm Tractor John Deere 5105 utility tractor; 8,400 lbs
o Farm Trailer 4 wheeled flatbed trailer; 2,000 lbs
o Grader Cat 120 motor grader; 31,000 lbs
o Man Lift track driven 15 scissors lift; 1,500 lbs
o Pile Driver track driven hydraulic ram; 6,800 lbs
o Roller 6 ton double drum roller; 12,000 lbs
o Generator 6kw portable generator; 200 lbs
o Seeder John Deere CS13 hydraulic seeder; 1,500 lbs
o Water Truck 2,000 gallon water truck; 30,000 lbs

Table 2 - Construction/installation equipment and machinery.


2.9 Traffic

When operational, the facility will have no full time employees and will not add to the local daily traffic
load. Only a limited number of replacement deliveries for materials and equipment will be required
throughout the lifetime of the facility. Additional traffic from regular onsite inspections and scheduled
maintenance will not exceed several vehicles per month.
Traffic load will be the greatest during the construction and installation phase as a result from increased
traffic entering and exiting the facility for the delivery of facility components, equipment and
transportation of the workforce. Upon reaching the site, delivery trucks will enter the site using the
entrance as shown in sheets A.103 Site Plan and C.100 Access Plan. The trucks will be unloaded and
their materials will be distributed to the specific area needed for construction. The table below includes
a breakdown of the following:
Various vehicle types used in the construction process
Purpose of the vehicle used
Development phase the vehicle is required
Peak daily round trips per phase
Table 3 Approximate vehicle traffic per phase.

2.10 Temporary Uses of Land
2.10.1 CURRENT LAND USE DESCRIPTION
The land is currently in use for agricultural or logging purposes.


2.10.2 LAND USE FOR CONSTRUCTION PURPOSES
A portion of the site within the perimeter of the security fence will be graded and used as a
construction staging area. The staging area will include construction office trailers, a first aid
station, employee parking, as well as truck loading and unloading facilities.
2.10.3 TIMING AND DURATION
The construction staging area will be installed shortly after the start of the site work phase and
remain in place until the commissioning and testing phase is complete. It is expected the
construction staging area will be used for the entire six month duration of the solar park
construction, with minimal use throughout the life of the project.
2.11 Materials and Equipment Delivery

All materials and equipment will be trucked to the site using delivery vehicles. Refer to relevant sections
of 2.0 CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION ACTIVITY DETAILS for further information regarding all onsite
materials, machinery and equipment, delivery vehicles, as well as associated specifications and/or
quantity and type.
2.12 Seasonal Timing

The seasonal timing of the construction phase of the project is directly related to MOE REA application
review and subsequent approval, as well as the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) Notice to Proceed, upon
which the proponent can then initiate the construction process. Construction can occur during portions
of the winter months, weather permitting. However, a majority of the construction phase is expected to
occur during the spring, summer and fall seasons, pending REA timing.
Refer to section 2.7.1 TIMELINE OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES for an overview of the sequence of
construction phases and the anticipated durations of each activity.
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

There are three main stages to solar park development including predevelopment, construction and
installation, and operation. The most likely stage for negative environmental impacts to occur is the
construction and installation of the project.
Similar to other construction projects but more benign in comparison, potential negative environmental
effects of the development within a 300 m radius of the construction activities consist of the following
and will be discussed further in this report:
1. Noise disturbance
2. Dust
3. Spills and chemicals


4. Alteration of current land conditions
5. Storm water runoff
6. Materials generated at, or transported from the project location
Potential factors affected by the above negative environmental impacts include the public, natural
features, wildlife, potential species at risk, as well as water bodies.
It is expected the potential for negative environmental impacts are minimal, however, as part of the
regulatory requirements these concerns have to be noted. Due to the short construction and
installation phase, these items would have a very restricted time period in which they could potentially
occur, ultimately limiting the likelihood and duration of the event.
Furthermore, the project owner will continue to monitor and apply any mitigation strategies in a timely
manner, when necessary. Ministry regulations and guidelines relating to the REA process have been,
and will continue to be, strictly adhered to. Strategies in addressing each of the identified concerns are
discussed in section 5.0 NEGATIVEENVIRONMENTALIMPACTSMITIGATION MEASURES.
3.1 Noise Disturbance

Some noise is produced during the construction and installation stage of the project. A number of
mitigation strategies will be applied in order to limit noise and any associated negative environmental
impacts on human and wildlife receptors.
3.1.1 NOISE EMITTERS
Potential noise emitters during the construction and installation phase of the solar park project
consist of the following:
4 wheel-drive fork lift
ATV vehicles
Bulldozer
Dump truck
Excavator
Farm tractor
Farm trailer
Grader
Man lift
Worker vehicle
Generators
Pile driver
Roller
Water truck
2 24 straight trucks
40 tractor trailer
Delivery truck
25 ton truck
Fuel truck
Pickup truck
As noted above, noise emitters are resultant of the operation and use of typical heavy and small-
scale construction and installation equipment.
3.1.2 NOISE CONSIDERATIONS AND THE PUBLIC
Public receptors will be impacted by the emitters listed above, but the impacts will be minimal,
short-term and finite. This stage will take approximately 22 weeks to complete. There will be no
construction and installation machinery use post- construction and installation.


3.1.3 NOISE CONSIDERATIONS AND WILDLIFE
Research has been conducted on the effects of noise on wildlife and there is evidence that
primary and secondary impacts may occur. The primary effects could potentially include auditory
changes, while secondary effects of noise are non-auditory in nature, including increased stress
levels and changes in other activities. Wildlife may adjust their diurnal patterns to counteract
changes to their environment related to noise level increases, but this often limits time spent
doing other activities (Burke MNR Zoologist, 2010).
3.2 Dust

Depending on the weather conditions at the site, construction vehicles and equipment may generate
dust while being operated. When necessary, a dust suppression system will be implemented. Although
there is the possibility for dust throughout this stage, specific activities such as the site preparation and
electrical underground work are most likely to have an impact. A water truck with an approximate
capacity of 2,000 gallons will be available on site to minimize any dust impacts caused by construction.
Machinery involved during these phases of the construction and installation consists of dozers, dump
trucks, excavators, graders and rollers.
3.3 Spills and Chemicals

Chemical sources present on site during the construction and installation phase will include those
required to power and lubricate construction vehicles and equipment. Engines for all vehicles and
equipment used on the site will require either diesel or gasoline fuel for operation. All vehicles and
equipment will use oil and grease for lubrication and a majority of the equipment will require hydraulic
oil for operation of its moving parts.
Other common chemicals present on-site will consist of antifreeze, coolant and windshield washer fluid.
Due to the chemical composition of concrete, this substance will be handled in a similar manner to the
chemicals previously mentioned. As a preventative measure, no concrete will be stored on site and
delivery will be implemented as needed from a ready-mix plant. No other chemicals are expected to be
used on site.
Please refer to section 5.0 - NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS MITIGATION MEASURES for further
information regarding how on site chemicals will be addressed.
3.4 Alteration of Current Land Conditions

Agricultural practices are common in this area, often consisting of livestock grazing which may result in
rural nonpoint pollution to the surrounding ecosystem by exposing topsoil, overgrazing of the land, soil
compaction, damaged stream banks and riparian zones, as well as the addition of direct silt and nutrient
inputs to water bodies. Similarly, a number of negative environmental impacts are associated with the
urbanization of areas due to the increased presence of impermeable surfaces.


In addition to the common sources of pollution noted above, negative impacts associated with
construction sites include inorganic pollution in the form of suspended and dissolved solids, mainly
comprised of silt and other minerals that could be carried to water bodies due to precipitation events.
Resultantly, a number of mitigation methods (Refer to section 5.0 NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTALEFFECTS
MITIGATION MEASURES) will be employed by the proponent to ensure natural features and water bodies
existing outside the 120 m buffer of the project location will remain undisturbed (Mitchell and Stapp,
2000).
Archaeological and Heritage Resources will not be negatively impacted by the development as there are
no significant archaeological or heritage features on the property as determined by the Stage 1 and 2
Archaeological Assessments. Please refer to section 4.0 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HERITAGE
RESOURCES, NATURAL HERITAGE AND WATER BODIES, as well as Appendix E Archaeological and
Heritage Resource Documentation and Appendix G Ministry Confirmation Letters.
No Significant Natural Heritage Resources will be negatively impacted by the development as
determined by the environmental investigations. Please refer to section 4.0 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND
HERITAGE RESOURCES, NATURAL HERITAGE AND WATER BODIES, as well as Appendix F Natural
Heritage Assessment Documentation and Appendix G Ministry Confirmation Letters.
Minimal site grading and drainage will be required. Refer to sheet C.101 Drainage Plan.
3.5 Storm Water Runoff

Nonpoint pollution inputs in the form of storm water runoff may negatively impact aquatic organisms
due to increases in water body turbidity (leading to warmer water conditions) and sediment deposition
(negatively impacting benthic organisms) (Mitchell and Stapp, 2000). Therefore, various precautionary
control mechanisms will be implemented to limit the chances of storm water runoff from occurring and
are discussed further in section 5.0 NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTALEFFECTSMITIGATION MEASURES.
Though there are no water bodies within 120 m of the project location, the proponent will still
implement sediment and erosion control mechanisms for best management practices, and to
thoroughly ensure water bodies, as well as natural features, remain undisturbed as a result of the
construction and installation phase.
3.6 Materials Generated at, or Transported from the Project Location

Approximately 1,500 wooden pallets and cardboard boxes used to protect the solar modules during
shipping will be accumulated on site and sent to a local recycling facility for processing. It is expected 10
trucks will be required to transport these materials to the recycling facility. Other than these items, only
general construction trash will be generated for the duration of the activities on site. Generally, any
garbage produced onsite will be trucked to the nearest landfill and any recyclable materials produced
onsite will be trucked to the nearest recycling facility.


4.0 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HERITAGE, NATURAL HERITAGE AND
WATER BODIES

4.1 Archaeological and Heritage Resources
4.1.1 STAGE 1 ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION DETERMINATIONS
Archaeological and Heritage Resource Assessments as outlined in O. Reg. 359/09 and the Ontario
Heritage Act were conducted by Dr. David Slattery of Horizon Archaeology (Archaeological License
#P041-130-2010). The Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment commenced early spring 2010 and was
submitted to the Ministry of Tourism and Culture (MTC).
As recommended in the investigations, few indications of cultural values were identified on the
subject property. Prior to development a full field walkabout would be needed to ground truth
the determinations of the Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment.
4.1.2 STAGE 2 ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION DETERMINATIONS
Stage 2 Archaeological Assessments were conducted by the aforementioned consultant in June
2010. The field assessment was conducted in accordance with O. Reg. 359/09 as well as
evaluation criteria and procedures established by the MTC.
No archaeological remains were recovered during the Stage 2 Archaeological Assessments; as
indicated by the Archaeologist, further investigations are not required.
Stage 1 and 2 Archaeological Assessments are located in Appendix E Archaeological and
Heritage Resource Documentation, while MTC acceptance letters are located in Appendix G
Ministry Confirmation Letters.
4.2 Natural Heritage

The Natural Heritage Assessments (NHA) were conducted in accordance with O. Reg. 359/09, as well as
implementing approved Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) evaluation criteria, procedures and
applicable databases including the Natural Heritage Assessment guide for Renewable Energy Projects,
Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) and the Biodiversity Explorer, the Significant Wildlife Habitat
Technical Guide (SWHTG), the Approval and Permitting Requirements Document (APRD), and others.
Listed below are the general determinations of the records review and site investigations, but are
provided in full detail in Appendix F Natural Heritage Assessment Documentation. The MNR
confirmation letter is located in Appendix G Ministry Confirmation Letters.
4.2.1 RECORDS REVIEW DETERMINATIONS
The purpose of the records review is to determine and identify if the proposed solar park project
is within 120 m of a provincial park or conservation reserve, within or adjacent to a natural


feature, within 50 m of an area of natural and scientific interest (ANSI) (earth science) or within
120 m of a natural feature that is not an ANSI (earth science).
The consultant used a variety of investigatory methods to explore the presence or absence of the
previously mentioned natural heritage features using the aforementioned technical guides and
databases, as well as Land Information Ontario (LIO), Natural Resources Canada (NRC), Species at
Risk in Ontario (SARO) and the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada
(COSEWIC) sources, as well as incorporating numerous GIS layers and shapefiles. Furthermore,
municipalities, ministries and other authorities have been contacted to gain as much knowledge
as possible to limit the potential for any negative environmental impact.
The results of the records review investigations indicated the following:
Three rare plants could have the potential to occur on the proposed site and/or within
120 m of the project location
The rare species have been taken into account during the site investigation. The site investigation
report provides an evaluation of the potential for these species to occur; outside of these species,
no other natural features were identified.
As part of the regulatory standards outlined in O. Reg. 359/09 these determinations have to be
verified during the site investigation. Refer to section 4.2.2 SITE INVESTIGATION DETERMINATIONS for
further information.
4.2.2 SITE INVESTIGATION DETERMINATIONS
The results of the NHA site investigation indicate the potential for four types of wildlife habitat as
outlined in the MNRs SWHTG including black bear (Ursus americanus)/mammal foraging area,
land bird migratory stopover areas, mature forest stands and raptor winter feeding and roosting
areas. As presented in the report none of these habitat types are considered to be significant as
defined by the MNR. The three rare plant species identified during the records review were not
found within the project location or the 120 m setback distance outside the project location,
requiring no further analysis.
4.3 Water Bodies

As outlined in O. Reg. 359/09, proponents proposing to engage in a renewable energy project shall
conduct a water assessment, consisting of:
1. A records review conducted in accordance with section 30.
2. A site investigation conducted in accordance with section 31.
Depending on the results of the records review and site investigation, proponents may then have to
further investigate water bodies in accordance with sections 39 and 40.


4.3.1 RECORDS REVIEW
No water bodies were identified on the project location or within 120 m buffer adjacent to the
site. As well, the project location is not within 300 m of the average annual high water mark of a
lake trout water body that is at or above development capacity, nor is the site within 120 of any
other water body that is at or above development capacity.
4.3.2 SITE INVESTIGATION
As determined during the site investigations, no water bodies as defined in O. Reg. 359/09 are
within the proposed project location or within the 120 m buffer of the project location. Further
substantiating the determinations of the records review, the site is not within 300 m of the
average annual high water mark of a lake trout lake that is at or above development capacity or
within 120 m of any other water body that is at or above development capacity.
The information obtained confirms the results of the Water Bodies records review; no corrections
are required to be made to the report.
For the complete Water Bodies Records Review and Site Investigation, refer to Appendix H Water
Assessment Documentation.
5.0 NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS MITIGATION MEASURES

5.1 Noise Disturbance

Equipment used during the construction and installation of the solar park will produce noise. Below is a
list of various mitigation measures with respect to the aforementioned negative environmental effects
that may result within a 300 m radius of the project location.
5.1.1 NOISE EMITTERS
As previously mentioned, there are a number of noise emitters operating during the construction
and installation stage of the project; mainly related to heavy and small-scale construction
equipment.
To help mitigate the noise impacts of these emitters, their operation will typically occur between
the hours of 7:00 am and 7:00 pm from Monday to Friday. The primary source of noise during
construction will be as a result of driving foundation support posts, which will last for a period of
approximately 10 weeks.
When possible, newer equipment, which is generally quieter than older equipment, will be used
on site. Additionally, when equipment is delivered to the site, it will be inspected to ensure it has
been properly maintained and has a suitable functioning muffler in place.


Equipment Operators, Emergency Response Coordinators, as well as Second-in-Command
Emergency Response Coordinators, will be on site to monitor and ensure equipment is operating
properly.
5.1.2 NOISE CONSIDERATIONS AND THE PUBLIC
The temporary period in which the solar park will be constructed, during which the greatest
amount of noise emissions will occur, will be minimal. The construction and installation stage will
be approximately 22 weeks in duration, after which noise will be resultant of the operation of the
facility. Noise studies have been conducted and prepared in accordance with Appendix A of the
MOE publication entitled Basic Comprehensive Certificates of Approval (Air) User Guide (2004),
as amended from time to time and available from the Ministry, as well as NPC 232 Sound Level
Limits for Stationary Sources in Class 3 Areas (Rural) (1995). Noise studies are further described in
section 5.1.3 NOISE STUDIES.

Due to the basic design of the solar park, little maintenance is required for the facility during the
operation phase, thus vehicle traffic will negligible limiting any associated noise disturbances.
The noise considerations presented in section 5.1.1 - NOISE EMITTERS will help mitigate potential
issues with the public. As well, the rural setting of the project location limits the extent of noise
and its impacts on public receptors. For the complete Noise Studies report, refer to Appendix D
Noise Study Report.
5.1.3 NOISE STUDIES
Though noise studies pertain mostly to the Design and Operation Phase of the project, the last
stage of the Construction and Installation Phase consists of Testing/Commissioning of the facility,
which will require some operation.
Under the REA requirements a Site-specific Noise Study Report is required to be submitted. This
report has been prepared in accordance with the MOE publication titled Basic Comprehensive
Certificates of Approval (Air) User Guide, dated April 2004.
RWDI completed a Noise Study report in accordance with applicable regulations (O. Reg. 359/09
and NPC-232). This assessment focused on sound emissions from the significant noise sources at
the Kap Solar Park facility which include one (1) transformer substation and six (6) power
inverters. The facility will operate 24 hours per day (energy production is limited to daylight
hours), 365 days per year. The noise assessment was completed through detailed modeling.
Engineering calculations were incorporated into the noise model to determine predictable worst-
case noise impacts at the closest sensitive receptors.
The noise impacts from the above noted facility sources were shown to meet the MOE NPC-232
sound level limits at all modeled receptors provided that indicated maximum sound power levels
are met. The noise study documents are provided in Appendix D Noise Study Report.


5.1.4 NOISE CONSIDERATIONS AND WILDLIFE
There are negative environmental impacts associated with noise produced by the described
machinery and equipment, but mitigation measures are being applied to limit the impacts on
wildlife.
This particular phase of the project will be temporary and short-term, ultimately reducing the
impacts on local fauna. Another means in mitigating the negative impacts of noise is limiting the
use of the equipment to that of the project location. By restricting equipment use to a specified
area, the potential to negatively impact a greater range of wildlife will be reduced.
Due to the non-invasive, basic design of a solar park, the noise emissions will be minimal in
comparison to more involved construction projects, such as those requiring extensive grading and
paving, the use of larger land areas and the construction of complex buildings, structures, and
their foundations. Rather, site grading will be limited as required to meet drainage requirements.
Support posts will be pile driven or screwed into the substrate, while no cement will be needed
for additional rigidity and support, and the solar park layout will follow the current land contours.
As well, no paving operations will be needed as interior roadways and the staging area will be
comprised of permeable aggregates A and B.
Though wildlife use the project location and surrounding area during some instance of their
lifecycle, the final determinations of the NHAs, found no significant natural features within the
project location or its buffer areas. Thus, noise impacts on wildlife will be limited due to the fact
there are no significant features for wildlife to use in and around the project location. Refer to
Appendix F Natural Heritage Assessment Documentation and Appendix G Ministry
Confirmation Letters for further clarification.
5.2 Dust

Water will be used as the primary method in suppressing potential dust related issues as a result of the
construction and installation activities. Water will be obtained from offsite sources and trucked to the
site. Water will be free of any contaminants that could negatively impact the fill material or the
environment, and will be applied in a way so as not to cause equipment blockage. A water truck with an
expected capacity of 2,000 gallons will remain on site at all times and be ready for immediate dispatch
to mitigate any dust issues that may arise.
Water will be applied, if necessary, in a uniform manner with the appropriate coverage and pressure;
equipment automation will be avoided. Pooling, runoff or the distribution of material beyond the
application area will be strictly avoided to reduce additional negative environmental impacts. Dust
suppression activities will not occur during rainfall events, when the ground surface is saturated or on
areas where water has accumulated.
Ultimately no natural sources of water at the project location will be disturbed, no pumping machinery
will be positioned close to any water bodies and water will be provided in a maneuverable fashion
quickly and efficiently.


5.3 Spills Action Plan

Part X of the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) concerns spills. Substances used in the construction,
installation and operation of the solar park facility that could potentially spill include mineral oil from
transformers and gasoline from construction equipment and other motor vehicles.
According to the EPA, a spill is defined as a discharge into the natural environment, from or out of a
structure, vehicle or other container, that is abnormal in quality or quantity in light of all the
circumstances of the discharge.

It is important to note that there are exceptions to the above, including spills of small quantities. The
exceptions that may apply to a solar park are listed below. The following list is adapted from the MOE
publication entitled Spills Reporting A Guide to Reporting Spills and Discharges published in May,
2007.

Class VI: Motor Vehicles. Fluids under 100 liters, other than fluids transported as
cargo, that may be released from the operating systems of motor vehicles, such as
fuels or radiator fluids in motor vehicle accidents, are defined as Class VI spills.
Class VII: Electrical Utilities. A spill of mineral oil, other than a PCB liquid, of less than
100 liters from electrical transformers or capacitors owned by a municipal or provincial
utility is classified as a Class VII spill. Subject to four conditions, Class VII spills need not
be reported to the Ministry. There are four conditions that must be met in order for
the reporting exemption to apply, they include:

o The spill of mineral oil does not enter and is not likely to enter directly or
indirectly water or a watercourse, as defined by the Ontario Water Resources
Act,
o The spill does not cause adverse effects other than those that are readily
remediated through cleanup and restoration of paved, graveled or sodded
surfaces,
o Arrangements for remediation are made immediately, and
o Records of the spill are maintained (Ministry of the Environment, 2007).

All other Part X duties and responsibilities remain unaltered by the exemption, including the duty to
notify the municipality, the owner and the person in control as these requirements may apply to the
circumstances of a Class VII spill (Ministry of the Environment, 2007).

Also important to note is that under S 91.1 of the EPA, every person who is in charge of a contaminant
that potentially could spill must, in accordance with the regulation, develop and implement plans to:

Prevent or reduce the risk of spills and pollutants; and
Prevent, eliminate or ameliorate any adverse effects that result or may result from
spills of pollutants including,
o Plans to notify the Ministry, other public authorities and members of the public
who may be affected by a spill, and
o Plans to ensure that appropriate equipment, material and personnel are
available to respond to a spill (Environmental Protection Act, 2009).


CHEMICALS
A variety of mitigation measures have been assessed in order to address the potential for spills of
any chemicals which may be on-site.
CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION EQUIPMENT - Secondary containment trays will be placed under
all equipment parked on site. At the beginning and the end of shifts, equipment operators will
inspect the equipment they are using, specifically looking for leaking fluids and other potential
issues. Equipment found to be leaking fluids will be immediately repaired or removed from
the site.
Tidy tanks, drums and double walled tanks (i.e., fuel trucks) will contain any on site fuel and/or
chemicals, and will be stored at a distance greater than 30 m from the adjacent water body.
Drip pans, other control mechanisms, as well as spill kits will be available, while ensuring on
site personnel are adequately trained in their application. Material Safety Data Sheets
(MSDSs) will be provided and stored on site. Spill notification will be conducted as per O. Reg.
675/98.
SPILL REPORTING - Personnel and construction workers will be instructed to report all spills
regardless of the severity and will be reported to the Emergency Response Coordinator or the
Second-in-Command Emergency Response Coordinator who will be adequately informed
regarding the policies and procedures outlined in EPA and O. Reg. 675/98. Small spills will be
cleaned up immediately by using absorbent materials such as hay, sand, socks or pads. If the
spill is of such magnitude it cannot be contained, the Emergency Response Coordinator or the
Second-in-Command Emergency Response Coordinator will contact the appropriate
authorities for assistance including the MOE and the Black River-Matheson Township. If
needed, the assessed landowners within 120 m of the project location (as provided by the
Black River-Matheson Township) will be notified.
SPILL INCIDENT REPORT - Further to the above paragraph, SPILL REPORTING, all site spills will
require a mandatory incident report to be filled out. The form includes pertinent information
to help describe the incident and the actions taken place to mitigate the issue. All personnel
and construction workers will be informed of the location of the incident reports to ensure no
spills go unaddressed (Refer to Appendix J Spill Incident Report for further clarification).
HAZARDOUSMATERIALS - In the event of a spill of a hazardous material in excess of reportable
limits, the spill must be reported to the Ministrys Spills Action Center at 1-800-268-6060.
Subsequently, in the event of a hazardous material spill, a spill report will be filled out and
appropriate measures will be implemented to mitigate the issue.
Refer to section Appendix Y - Emergency Response and Communication Plans for further information.


5.4 Alteration of Current Land Conditions

The project owner will limit land alterations as much as possible, not only to reduce costs and time
spent altering the land, but to reduce associated negative environmental impacts. The greatest land
altering effects will be resultant of the following:
Gravel roadways
Concrete pads for inverters and transformers
Gravel staging area
Operation and use of heavy equipment
Minimal site grading and drainage adjustments
Though gravel roadways will change the current property conditions, the roadway network will be very
limited in design. Roadways will be restricted to access to key components of the facility such as the
inverters and transformers (Appendix B Design Documentation - sheet C.100 Access Plan). The
concrete pads for the inverter stations switch gear and the collector substation, will be relatively small in
size in comparison to the overall area of the solar park (approximately 45 acres). Seven foundations in
total will be required for the facility. The dimensions of the concrete pads are approximately 10.0 m x
4.0 m x 0.25 m (7 in total will be needed within the project location).
Similar to the gravel roadways, the staging area will be constructed from the same granular material; no
impermeable surfaces will be used for roadways or the staging area construction. Permeable surfaces
will allow precipitation to absorb and infiltrate into soils more naturally, reducing the chances of surface
water runoff into any nearby water courses, limiting the potential for sediment deposition (Mitchell and
Stapp, 2000).
Minimal site grading and drainage plans will be incorporated into the design of the facility. Immediately
after grading is complete, the entire site will be re-vegetated with OPPS 804 old field mix to reduce
the potential for erosion and surface water runoff.
The foundation and racking system selected for this project will minimize disturbance of the existing soil
on the site and can be easily removed when the facility is decommissioned. There are no concrete
foundations or permanent structures required to support the racking system that will be installed
throughout the site.
Due to the non-invasive nature of the solar park construction and installation in comparison to other
construction activities, the effects of the operation and use of heavy equipment will be negligible.
Regardless, the owner will ensure the primary negative environmental effects of equipment on the land
(i.e., soil compaction and exposure) will be addressed in the most appropriate way, by upgrading the
surface conditions and seeding any negatively impacted area accordingly, while ensuring these areas are
monitored until adequate growth has been achieved. The naturalization will help promote rainwater
infiltration into the soil, reducing the likelihood of surface water runoff and sediment deposition into
any nearby water bodies potentially existing outside the 120 m buffer area (as no water exist within this
setback distance).


SURFACE WATER DRAINAGE AND SITE GRADING
Refer to the surface water drainage and site grading plan located in Appendix B Design
Documentation (See sheet C.101 Drainage Plan and the DESIGN AND OPERATIONS REPORT for
further clarification). Sediment and erosion control mechanisms will be implemented as per
section 5.5 SEDIMENT AND EROSION CONTROL and are further described in sheet C.201 Civil Details
II (Appendix B).
5.5 Sediment and Erosion Control

Various methods will be taken into consideration in order to limit sediment and erosion of the
construction site terrain. All exposed land will be seeded accordingly using the previously mentioned
vegetation (i.e., OPPS 804 old field mix). The primary method for sediment and erosion control will
consist of straw bales and silt fencing.

The implementation of the above control mechanisms will be located on the down gradient portions of
any lay down area, along roadways, as well as surrounding any temporary stockpiles of materials, to
help reduce the potential for sediment inputs and limit surface erosion. Additionally, straw bales and
silt fencing implemented during the construction and installation phase may be maintained during the
preliminary stages of the operation of the facility, until permanent storm water management vegetation
features have fully matured.

Refer to sheets C.101 Drainage Plan and C.201 Civil Details II (Appendix B) for further information.
LIGHT-DUTY STRAW BALE BARRIER
Straw bales will be dry, firm, rectangular bunches of wheat or oat straw and will be implemented
to decrease surface water flow, ultimately mitigating potential silt and mineral deposition into
water bodies potentially existing outside the 120 m buffer area of the project location.
Dimensions of individual straw bales will be approximately 36 x 14 x 18. The center portion of
the light-duty straw bale barrier will encounter the most direct surface water flow and will be
approximately 3 m in length. The winged portions will be angled slightly towards the direction of
flow to facilitate catchment of any surface water and will be approximately 2 m in length.
Located at the outlets of each swale will be light-duty straw bale barriers. Each straw bale will be
anchored with two stakes, positioned 150 mm from the ends of the bale and centered
accordingly. Stakes will be driven flush into the straw bales and anchored appropriately in the
earths surface.
As an additional contingency measure, both silt fencing and straw bale barriers will be used in
conjunction with each other at the outlets of each swale.


LIGHT-DUTY SILT FENCE
Similar to the function of the straw bales, the silt fencing is a geotextile or fabric barrier used to
impede surface water flow, helping to reduce sediment deposition into waterways potentially
existing outside the 120 m buffer area of the project location.
When positioned at the drainage outlet of each swale, the center portion will be approximately 6
m in length and will encounter the greatest amount of direct surface water flow. The wing
portions of the silt fencing will be 2 m in length and will be angled towards the direction of flow.
Stakes will be greater than 1.2 m in length and 600 mm will be anchored in the ground for
adequate support. On the upslope side of the stakes, a small trench approximately 200 mm x 200
mm will be installed by workers using hand shovels or possibly a small trenching machine. The
geotextile fabric will be attached on the upslope side of the stakes, as well as having a minimum
of 300 mm of fabric within the trench to ensure surface water flow will not travel beneath the
fencing. The trench will be backfilled and compacted for added support.
5.6 General Monitoring

5.6.1 CONSTRUCTION Daily visual inspections will be conducted within and outside the project
location boundaries, equipment and machinery will be inspected daily for fuel leaks (control
mechanisms such as drip pans will be implemented accordingly), the site will be monitored for
surface rutting and mitigated when necessary, and material stockpiles will be monitored
routinely. Monitoring will be more intensive before and after storm events.
5.6.2 OPERATION There will be little vehicular traffic on site during the operation phase of the
project. Inspections will focus on the evaluation of the effectiveness of the sediment and erosion
control strategies (especially before and after storm events) and electrical components of the
facility such as the inverters, transformers and collector substation.
5.6.3 DECOMMISSIONING Similar to the construction stage, daily visual inspections will be
conducted within and outside the project location boundaries, equipment and machinery will be
inspected daily for fuel leaks (control mechanisms such as drip pans will be implemented
accordingly), the site will be monitored for surface rutting and mitigated when necessary, and
material stockpiles will be monitored routinely. Monitoring will be more intensive before and
after storm events. Concrete foundations will be removed, all recyclable materials will be
recycled, garbage will be trucked to the nearest landfill and the land will be reclaimed to
agricultural field.
5.6.4 ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT Housekeeping and operational measures will be instituted at all
problem areas to decrease the potential risks and any associated negative environmental impacts.
Procedures will be adapted with the primary goal of reducing impacts, improving operational
effectiveness, as well as ensuring regular monitoring supported by operational change and
adoption of other mitigation measures if required.


5.7 Materials Generated at, or Transported from the Project Location

As previously described, garbage will be produced during the construction and installation phase of the
project as a result of shipping materials needed for the solar modules, as well as general construction
trash. Though the generation of these materials is an inevitable part of the project development, listed
below are mitigation measures to be implemented by the project owner to limit the effects of the
production of excess materials:
During construction, the project will be maintained in a sanitary condition at all times. Waste
materials generated on the project location (e.g., trash, excess construction material, etc.) will
be stored in containers at all times and disposed of in an approved disposal site.
All waste generated during construction will be removed or disposed of in compliance with all
Provincial disposal standards and regulations.
Portable toilets will be available for human waste and will be serviced on a regular basis.
No open burning of waste materials will be allowed.
Any materials used to clean up a chemical spill will be treated as hazardous waste and disposed
of appropriately.
Concrete trucks will wash out into waste management containers and disposed of accordingly.


REFERENCES

Burke, D. 2010. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Southern Science Zoologist. [Online] Personal e-
mail.
Environmental Protection Act. 2009. Ministry of the Environment. [Online] <http://www.e-
laws.gov.on.ca/html/statutes/english/elaws_statutes_90e19_e.htm>. Last accessed February,
2010.
Ministry of the Environment. 2007. Spills Reporting A Guide Reporting Spills and Discharges. [Online]
<http://www.ene.gov.on.ca/en/about/penalties/SpillReportingGuide.pdf>. Last accessed
February, 2010.
Mitchell, M and Stapp, W. 2000. Field Manual for Water Quality Monitoring An Environmental
Education Program for Schools (12
th
Edition). Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company: 4050 Westmark
Dubuque, Iowa 52002. 266 pgs.
Natural Resources Canada. 2011. The Atlas of Canada (National Topographic Series) Toporama.
[Online] <http://atlas.nrcan.gc.ca/site/english/maps/topo/map>. Last accessed January 31
st
,
2011.
NPC-232. 1995. Sound Level Limits for Stationary Sources in a Rural Area. [Online] <
http://www.ene.gov.on.ca/envision/gp/3405e.pdf>. Last accessed February, 2010.
Ontario Regulation 359/09. Made under the Environmental Protection Act Renewable Energy
Approvals Under Part V.0.1 of the Act. 2009.

Construction Plan Report PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Construction Plan Report PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

CONSTRUCTION PLAN REPORT

PREPARED BY: REFERGY CANADA INC.

You might also like