Solar
clean.abundant.renewable.
Did you know there is enough solar power provided in one hour of sunlight to meet the Earth’s energy needs for an entire year? Solar energy is clean, abundant, and renewable. One of the world’s largest natural resources where humans can provide a reliable source for affordable energy. Once constructed and produced electricity, solar energy does not emit any greenhouse gas pollutants into the atmosphere, therefore, reducing the impacts of climate change. These benefits are just a few of the reasons Lamp Rynearson has been providing civil design services for solar fields across Colorado and Texas since 2015.
From large, utility-scale projects to, small-scale solar sites, Lamp Rynearson professionals assist clients with the process of bringing this type of energy to municipalities of all sizes. What started as a client referral has turned into multiple large utility-scale solar energy projects for Lamp Rynearson, ranging from 500 KW to 400 MW with Battery storage components.
In 2019, the state of Colorado passed 11 major clean energy bills and is a leader in renewable energy. According to the Colorado Energy Office, by 2030 the state plans to cut emissions of climate-warming pollutants by 50% – with their goal being 90% by 2050. The intended result? Opening additional avenues of carbon reduction. As solar power continues to become more efficient and economical, it will continue to grow as a viable power source for not only Colorado but other regions across America and developing countries.
Do you have a solar project idea you’ve been kicking around? As Colorado’s preeminent civil engineering solar partner – we’d love to talk to you!
How We Help Your Community.
Topographic surveys are completed to a high standard of precision and accuracy by experienced Lamp Rynearson crews. With the latest in LIDAR, photogrammetry, total station and GPS technology at our fingertips, we can complete topographic surveys on any structures or over any terrain.
If you are buying or developing property, our survey team is experienced at creating ALTA’s, subdivision plats or survey maps as may be required by title companies to document your purchase. The intricate process includes extensive public and private records review, a thorough field investigation, and precise analysis of the findings to make sure there are no discrepancies regarding the property’s physical and documented boundaries. If clarification or rectification of the property boundary or site encumbrances is required, Lamp Rynearson surveyors are experts in setting new markers and rewriting legal descriptions that are agreeable to all stakeholders involved, so that you can proceed quickly and confidently with your purchase.
Lamp Rynearson survey staff is knowledgeable in easement and right of way vacation or dedication. Lamp Rynearson staff are experts in the municipal process for dedication and vacations.
In order to begin a ground mounted Solar project, site entitlement must be obtained from the local jurisdiction, be it either with the County or within City Limits. Depending on local zoning site entitlements could be a simple site plan (use be right) that has an administrative review or as complicated as a Use By Special Review or 1041 that requires in depth review and public hearings for site approval and entitlements. Whatever the process, Lamp Rynearson has the expertise to work with the local jurisdictions to provide documentation and represent the project or client and work towards site approval.
Lamp Rynearson can provide desktop reviews for high level site due diligence and assessing risk for the owner.
Once the site has site entitlements, then typically Lamp Rynearson works with an EPC contractor (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) for the development of the construction plans to be used during construction. During construction the projects are typically managed as a Design Build. Lamp Rynearson prepares construction plans that meet the needs of the Local Jurisdiction, the EPC contractor and other reviewers.
Construction plans are prepared to minimize grading and earth disturbing activities.
Construction plans content typically consists of the following:
- Horizontal control, including verification of Solar North vs. Grid North to maximize energy production
- Grading Design
- Sediment and Erosion Control Design
- Sediment Ponds and drainage control features as required
- Project Specific Details
Lamp Rynearson will work with the EPC contractor during the design and construction phases.
Assist the Developer or EPC contractor in obtaining permits throughout the entitlement and construction. Typical permits will include crossing permits, access permits and construction activities stormwater permits.
Construction survey has varied from setting a survey hub for every pile or structure being constructed to setting project control and allowing the site survey team to set points for pile driving.
Construction observation or 3rd party review is available for clients and developers. These services include visiting the site and observing construction and providing observation reports. Construction observation typically involves grading improvements, drainage or water quality structures to BMP selection and confirming installation is in compliance.
Throughout entitlement, design, construction to close-out Lamp Rynearson will work with the Owner, Developer and EPC contractor as part of your development team. We strive to be your 1st contact and be a part of the team and will work with you from start to finish.
Lamp Rynearson is available to assist and attend stakeholder coordination and weekly owner meetings. Lamp Rynearson’s staff will travel to meet owners at their offices, project site or virtual meetings. Lamp Rynearson works will the entire project team to help facilitate a successful project.
Layout optimization can be performed by Lamp Rynearson. Layout optimization will look at reducing grading, traffic routes, avoidance of natural barriers, avoid existing drainage patterns and wildlife significant areas. Overall optimization looks to reducing improvements that will save time and costs during construction. Typical layout design optimization has been performed for sites larger than 200 MW in size.
Solar in the News.
Solar is a multifaceted power source, that can help small communities lower their energy costs for water and wastewater services. On-site solar systems can be deployed at any public facility water and wastewater treatment plants to further enhance the communities they serve. Solar projects speak to our purpose to “leave a legacy of enduring improvements within our communities”.
