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Design & Access/

Planning Statement Photovoltaic Solar Farm

at

Rolleston Park Farm Tutbury

Burton on Trent Staffordshire

DE13 9HQ

P/2014/00830Received 27/06/2014

Design & Access/Planning Statement Rolleston Park Farm, Burton on Trent

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION

2 SITE & SURROUNDING AREA SITE SELCTION CRITERIA SITE SELECTION PROCESS

3 PLANNING POLICY

4 PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

5 DESIGN

6 CONCLUSIONS

APPENDICES

A Manufacturer’s Literature

Prepared by: J Kelly Position: Planning Director

Approved by: J Kelly Position: Planning Director

Date Prepared: 18th June 2014


1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 This Statement has been prepared pursuant to s.62 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) and Article 4C of the General Development Procedure Order 1995 (as amended), as informed by Circular 01/2006 and the CABE guidance issued in 2006."

1.2 This design and access statement has been prepared by Push Energy Ltd in support of a planning application for the provision of a photovoltaic solar farm on land at Rolleston Park Farm, Tutbury, Burton on Trent, Staffordshire, DE13 9HQ.

1.3 It will provide an overview of the proposals, the surrounding area and any relevant planning history.

1.4 This statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying plans and application forms.

1.5 In addition, this Statement will provide an overview of the benefits and relevant planning policy considerations relating to the delivery of solar panels and renewable forms of energy.


2.1 SITE & SURROUNDING AREA

2.1.1 The site for the proposed photovoltaic solar array is located on Rolleston Park Farm, Tutbury, Burton on Trent, Staffordshire DE13 9HQ.

Location Plan


2.1.2 The site is bounded:- to the north by enclosed fields and Tutbury beyond. to the east by Burton Road and enclosed fields beyond. to the south by Rolleston Park Farm. to the west by enclosed fields and Bushton Lane and Belmont Road beyond.

Aerial view, indicating proposed site to south of Tutbury and to the west of Rolleston-on-Dove.


2.2 SITE SELECTION CRITERIA

2.2.1 Why Field Scale Solar?

Solar panels were initially installed in the UK from April 2010 under the feed in tariff scheme. This scheme is aimed predominately at residential and commercial installations although circa a dozen 5 MW field scale proposals were consented and installed predominately in the West Country. Field scale solar has seen resurgence since December 2012, after the government confirmed the renewable technology bandings under the ROC (Renewable Obligations Certificates). This scheme is the same one that supports other forms of renewables such as off-shore wind, large on-shore wind farms, co firing of Biomass (DRAX) and energy-from-waste plants. The ROC scheme is generally aimed at larger power plant proposals.

Both schemes acknowledge that the cost of renewable energy still exceeds traditionally generated fossil fuel technologies and provides subsidies to bridge this gap. The current delay in the construction of a new round of nuclear plants is largely due to negotiations over the amount and duration of the subsidy that the nuclear power will receive for their electricity potentially for the 40 years from 2025.

In the 2000’s the Blair government signed an EU Treaty (in agreement with the Kyoto protocol) which committed the UK, along with all EU members, to producing 15% of all energy (including electricity, transport and heating energy sources) from renewable sources by 2020. Given that transport and heating are much more difficult to produce renewably and have a longer lead in time they will not meet the 15% target the UK therefore have been tasked to produce 30% of our electricity from renewable sources by 2020 in order to average 15% overall. For Solar, The Department of Energy & Climate Change (DECC) acknowledges a target of 22GW of installed PV capacity by 2020 (the UK currently has 2GW at Q2 2013).

2.2.2 We are asked to select sites for large PV plants bearing in mind four key points:

Grid Connection

Land use

Soil Type

Visual Impact

Access

2.2.3 Grid Connection

The electricity network is based on nodes known as grid substations where power is transformed from small pylons (132,000 volts i.e. the transmission network voltage) to wooden poles (33,000 volts and lower) for onward transmission towards end users. Amongst other factors the capacity of the network to absorb generation is determined by two main factors;

1) The overall capacity of the grid substation (the black squares on the drawing below)

2) The size of the conductor that goes back to the grid substation (green lines on the drawing below).

For viable solar or onshore wind proposals POC’s (point of connections) are generally either into the 33,000 volt network or directly into the grid substation.


Schematic of Distribution Map

Very few sites have viable access to these points of connection. These sites are classed by many as a scarce national resource not to be wasted.

In order for the UK to have any chance of meeting it’s renewable energy targets all grid connection capacity will need to be utilised regardless of the location of the grid substation, whether it be rural, i.e. Hatton substation on the map above, or more urban, like Burton on the map above.

Each grid substation (circled in red) will have potential capacity. Unfortunately, we cannot adopt a not in my back yard approach for rural locations as the commitments the UK have made in the EU mean we will need to use all available grid capacity for generation of some type. The number of solar farm proposals that any one LPA (Local Planning Authority) may receive will largely depend on how their LPA territory overlays the Western Power Distribution grid map. We would estimate that any one

SITE


LPA should not expect any more than 6 to 8 proposals as a maximum before grid connection capacity is exhausted.

The limiting factor of the electricity network in its ability to accept generation will ultimately be what limits the possibilities for renewable generation sites. Initial renewable generation schemes were typically onshore wind sites and more recently solar farm proposals with a mix of AD (Anaerobic Digestion) plants and energy from waste plants thrown in.

2.2.4 Land Use

We try to focus on previously developed land. We consider the following type of land use for solar from following four categories:

1. Brown field previously developed land

2. Existing industrial or commercial sites

3. New industrial or commercial sites

4. Greenfield sites

Brownfield

Solar farm developers have considered brownfield sites nationally but these are often hard to find either at sufficiently large enough scale to make a proposal viable or with sufficient grid connection capacity. Some of our proposals target previously developed land such as wartime airfields, but such sites are not always available with suitable grid connections. Often brownfield sites may also be zoned for other development uses, such as housing and employment. Solar farms are under continuous pressure to deliver electricity at ever lower prices. This means land owners who view their sites as having even remote potential for other lucrative developments, such as housing, will not consider the comparatively meagre rents that solar farms can afford to pay.

The latest figures published by the Home and Communities Agency show that there are 23,859 brownfield sites in the UK. According to Kronos Solar, all sites north of Middlesbrough lack sufficient irradiation for a project to be viable, leaving a total of 22,135 sites.

Recent research, undertaken by Kronos Solar, shows that out of the 23,000-plus brownfield sites listed in the UK, just 128 have theoretical potential to host solar farms, while only 21 are deemed viable by the report’s author Kronos Solar.

In addition, Kronos Solar stipulates that the current cost of the required 33kv or11kv grid connections and associated switchgear means that potential sites must be larger than 10 hectares to be economically viable – this whittles the potential sites down to just 647.

Of the 647 sites identified, 319 are already allocated for housing and employment. A further 231 already have planning permission for other purposes than solar. This leaves just 128 suitable sites; however, when other reasons are taken into account such as grid access challenges or the owner’s unwillingness to make such land available, the number of sites drops to a lowly 21.


Jonathon Scurlock, Chief Adviser renewable energy and climate change for the National Farmers Union (NFU) noted the challenges of land classification.

He said: “The NFU recognises that solar PV is making a fast-growing contribution to land-based renewable energy production, whether mounted on farm buildings or as solar farms. This report sheds some much-needed light on the limited potential for solar farms on previously developed brownfield land in Britain.

Existing industrial or commercial sites

Retro fitting solar to existing sites has many factors to consider. The following issues often need to be considered:

Tenure

Often buildings are not owned by the businesses that occupy them and use the electricity generated on or around them. Many landlords can’t warrant the additional complications involved in securing a lease for period required for solar development.

Roof type and orientation

For retro fitting solar panels to existing roofs, the existing buildings will obviously need to be in a position to carry the modules, and also be correctly orientated ideally with a ridge running East to West. Most are not correctly orientated. If roofs not facing due south are viable to install solar PV on, they are not maximising the potential of what could be delivered were they to be due south facing.

Structural capability

The ability of the building to hold the additional weight – particularly with a drive towards minimising costs, which means most modern buildings already constructed can’t carry the additional weight of a solar installation when assessed with statutory snow and wind loadings.

New industrial or commercial sites

Incorporating renewables technologies into new Industrial or commercial buildings is required to meet latest Building Regulations. The main areas that cause problems when considering large scale solar on new Industrial or commercial buildings are similar to those listed above, tenure and building orientation being key. The buildings can be designed to support the additional weight of the solar panels. The simple fact is that sourcing proposed buildings that are suitable in orientation and have a grid connection is very difficult.

Greenfield sites

With over 70% of the UK land area being agricultural and considering the limitations discussed above that the UK electricity network imposes it is unsurprising that solar development on agricultural land is a necessity.

Unlike other previous uses of agricultural land Solar Farms do not take land out of agricultural production as sheep are used to graze the grass under the panels with less than 5% of the land area actually being used by the foundation piles that support the panels.


Solar arrays are also temporary developments with planning permission typically granted for 25 years. Their construction method means that returning the land to full agricultural production at the end of this period could be achieved with relative ease.

Solar farms are bringing huge benefits to the countryside with increased biodiversity and ecology particularly in areas that are traditionally very low on biodiversity due to years of intensive farming. Testament to this is shown by the outspoken support from organisations such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, The National Trust and The British Bee Keepers Association.

We must also remember that it is not a new concept for farm land to be used for non food production. Crops have long been grown for other uses such as fibres for building materials, clothing and cosmetics. Perhaps the most common example of a non-food crop is the UK is the familiar yellow fields of oilseed rape that are used for Biodiesel and other industrial purposes.

The use of land for renewable energy compares very favourably with other technologies. An anaerobic digestion plant fed on maize uses 30 times the land area of a solar PV plant.

In addition to these factors Push Energy strives, where possible, to uses sites of lower agricultural land value.

2.2.5 Visual Impact

Solar is repeatedly shown to be the favoured renewable energy technology of the general public. This is probably due to its benign nature. Solar Farms make no noise, emit no odour have no significant transport associated with them.

Wind turbines are by their very nature highly visible. Solar is fortunate that it is far less visible and is static while operating. Solar farms are typically not more than 2 metres in height which is very comparable to a typical hedgerow. This means on a level site that is not overlooked a solar farm can often be invisible from the outside world.

Visibility is taken very seriously in site selection and great care is taken to find sites that are likely to be the least visible. Once these sites have been found professional landscape architects are employed to assist in the design, location and screening features to further reduce visibility.

Due to the other limitations mentioned such as grid connection it is not always possible to have a site that is inconspicuous, but mitigation can be employed to minimise any impact on views that a solar farm may have.

2.2.6 Access

Solar farms are again more favourable than many other renewable technologies in that they have a minimal requirement for ongoing transportation movements. Once the site has been constructed maintenance is typically only carried out by vans rather than lorries. A reasonable access to site is however required for the construction process where HGVs are needed to deliver the site materials.


2.3 SITE SELECTION

2.3.1 The first step undertaken is to locate a 33KV power line. Once a power line has been identified, we assess the potential capacity, based on conductor size and distance to nearest substation.

2.3.2 The line identified in having potential capacity was the 33KV line running between Hatton Primary & Burton substations. The estimated available grid capacity would be in the region of 15-20MW, the required land area would be in the region 40-65 acres, depending on topography and existing landscaping (shading).

2.3.3 The next step is to produce a constraints map of the entire power line route. See drawing PA010 in report.

2.3.4 Following methodology set out in Section 2.2 above, we assess the entire route for potential sites. See Fig 1 Site Selection Flow Diagram.

2.3.5 Site Selection (Site Selection Flow Diagram)

Are there any sites available on brownfield/previously developed land?

We searched the 3km wide corridor centred on the overhead power line (3km corridor relates to the viable distance from POC to solar farm site being approx. 1.5km). The only brownfield or previous developed land that was identified had been earmarked for other forms of development, housing or employment use.

Are there any existing industrial / commercial sites available?

We searched the 3km wide corridor centred on the overhead power line, no existing industrial / commercial sites were identified, with suitable roof areas.

Are there any new industrial / commercial sites available?

We searched thee 3km wide corridor centred on the overhead power line, no new industrial / commercial sites were identified as a potential site.

Are there any Greenfield sites available?

Almost the entire route of the overhead power line is within greenfield land, mainly in agricultural use. The agricultural classification land surrounding the overhead power line classification is Grade 3 land based on the (See Fig.3) extract from ALC map. We therefore would focus on Grade 3b, being the lowest quality available.

Fig.1 Site Selection Flow Diagram

Identify suitable

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NO

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NO


Fig 3. Extract from (ALC) Agricultural Land Classification map (approx. location of power line shown dotted.

Focus on lowest agricultural land possible with least visual impact.

We initially focused our search at the Hatton Primary substation end of the power line. We approached landowners that owned land within the 3km corridor following the power line.

The landowners of Rolleston Park Farm, Tutbury, expressed interest. Rolleston Park Farm landholding comprises approximately 180 hectares (445 acres) of arable land (area within blue line on map below).

Map of Rolleston Park Farm landholding (power line shown along road)

The entire landholding was then appraised, to identify potential fields of suitable area. Due to the proximity of existing residential properties and the topography, most of the land holding was discounted.


Seven field parcels were identified as potential locations of a solar farm. See drawing 008/PA0012 indicating the field parcels 1-7 within Rolleston Park Farm landholding and other on suite constraints. Two or Three of the field parcels would be required to achieve the area required to reach the available capacity.

Following a intial site visit:

- Field parcel 1 was ruled out due to the fact that a footpath runs through the site. Also, it would be isolated from adjacent field parcels.

- Field parcel 2 was ruled due to the topography of the land and the footpath thats runs diagonally through the middle of the site.

- Field parcels 3, 4 & 5 were short listed and subject to further analysis. There were issues regarding existing proposed gas main

- Field parcel 6 was discounted due to its proximity to existing residential properties.

- Field parcel 7 was discounted due potential flooding issues, and large area lost due to shading from the existing mature trees to the south.

Following further analysis by Nigel Cowlin Associates, is was considered that field parcels 3, 4 & 5 would be the most suitable location for a solar farm site on the landholding. The landowner was happy for us to proceed with selected field parcels. He confirmed that he expected the ALC grading to be 3a/b as indicated on ALC map. A soil report would be carried out to confirm this.

Map showing land parcels 1-7

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The next stage is to submit a Point of Connection (POC) request to Western Power Distribution (WPD), to establish if there was any capacity in the network. WPD have 90 day statutory period to determine the request.

Western Power Distribution confirmed that a connection of 15.84MW was available. In order to secure the connection the full connection cost is payable to secure the POC. This POC capacity equates to a site area of approx. 20 Hectares, which can be accommodated within field parcels 3,4 and 5.

Following the POC offer, a soil classification survey (forms part of full planning application) was carried out, the report confirms the farmer’s view that the soil classification is 3b, the lowest classification within the area.

2.3.6 Visual Impact

The solar farm is located south of the village of Tutbury. It would occupy the one large agricultural field and part of the adjacent field, and is set in a plateau landscape with a gentle slope.

2.3.7 The northern boundary consists of a mature native hedge managed to 2.0m tall that is gappy in places interspersed with some Oak trees. The sites western boundary is open with hedging in places. The southern boundary consists of well formed hedging however it has gaps in places. The eastern boundary consists of a native species hedging in places however there are open areas along burton road.

2.3.8 The site is set away from roads and properties. Rolleston Park Farm and its associated properties lie to the south west approximately 150 metres from the southern edge of the solar farm. There are a number of footpaths one or two fields away from the site, the closest of which lies to the west approximately 50 metres from the northern boundary.

2.3.9 The isolated nature of the site and the extensive hedge and woodland associated with the area results in the site only being visible from a few roadside locations to the east and north. However, on the whole due to the plateau landscape the field is only seen as a slender horizontal shape.

2.3.10 From a landscape and visual impact perspective, the chosen site with suitable mitigation to the boundaries will have limited landscape and visual impacts.

2.3.11 Access Solar Farms are again more favourable than many other renewable technologies in that they have a minimal requirement for ongoing transportation movements. Once the site has been constructed maintenance is typically only carried out by vans rather than lorries. A reasonable access to site is however required for the construction process where HGVs are needed to deliver the site materials.

The existing access currently provides access for agricultural vehicles it is therefore suitable for both the construction traffic and ongoing maintenance of a solar farm.


2.3.12 Conclusion

In our opinion field parcel 3,4 and 5 would be an excellent site for a solar farm due to its:

Locality to available grid. Using the lowest quality agricultural land available within vicinity. Low visual impact. Good vehicular access.


3 PLANNING POLICY

3.1 At the core of planning policy on the delivery of renewable energy is the well-publicised requirement for the UK to produce 20% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020.

3.2 National planning policy is now set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

3.3 Paragraph 17 sets out the core principles; it confirms (inter alia) that planning should support the transition to a low carbon future in a changing climate, taking full account of flood risk and coastal change, and encourage the reuse of existing resources, including conversion of existing buildings, and encourage the use of renewable resources (for example, by the development of renewable energy).

3.4 By way of further context, paragraph 91 (in relation to green belt, which is not relevant here) confirms that "very special circumstances" may include the wider environmental benefits associated with the increased production of energy from renewable sources.

3.5 Paragraph 93 states that planning plays a key role in helping shape places to secure radical reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, minimising vulnerability and providing resilience to the impacts of climate change, and supporting the delivery of renewable and low carbon energy and associated infrastructure, stating that, "This is central to the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development".

3.6 Paragraph 97 states that to help increase the use and supply of renewable and low carbon energy, local planning authorities should recognise the responsibility on all communities to contribute to energy generation from renewable or low carbon sources, and that they should (inter alia) have a positive strategy to promote energy from renewable and low carbon sources, and design their policies to maximise renewable and low carbon energy development while ensuring that adverse impacts are addressed.

3.7 As a result paragraph 98 provides that, when determining planning applications, local planning authorities should:-

not require applicants for energy development to demonstrate the overall need for renewable or low carbon energy and also recognise that even small-scale projects provide a valuable contribution to cutting greenhouse gas emissions; and

approve the application if its impacts are (or can be made) acceptable.

3.8 Paragraph 122 states that Local planning authorities should take into account the

economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land. Where significant development of agricultural land is demonstrated to be necessary, local planning authorities should seek to use areas of poorer quality land in preference to that of a higher quality. The solar farm will occupy the site for a period of 25 years. Almost all of the land will continue to be available for agricultural use. At the end of the 25 years the solar farm will be decommissioned and all infrastructure will be removed, The land can then be returned to full agricultural use. The agricultural land will not be lost to future generations.


3.9 Government planning practice guidance is a material consideration in planning

decisions and should generally be followed unless there are clear reasons not to. The previous "Planning for Renewable Energy: A Companion Guide to PPS22" is now cancelled, but in March 2014 the government published its "Planning practice guidance for renewable and low carbon energy". This provides advice on planning issues associated with the development of renewable energy. It is to be kept under review and should be read alongside other planning practice guidance and the NPPF.

3.10 Paragraph 012 of the new guidance sets out particular planning considerations that relate to active solar technology, including photovoltaic panels. These include:-

the importance of siting systems in situations where they can collect the most energy from the sun;

the need for sufficient area of solar modules to produce the required energy

output from the system;

the effect on a protected area such as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or other designated areas;

and the colour and appearance of the modules, particularly if not a standard

design. None of these give rise to difficulties in the present case. Further, paragraph 26 advises that the deployment of large-scale solar farms can have a negative impact on the rural environment, particularly in "very" undulating landscapes. However, the visual impact of a well-planned and well-screened solar farm can be properly addressed within the landscape if planned sensitively. Again, the accompanying LVA confirms that in this case, the proposed solar farm can be accommodated within the landscape.

3.11 Paragraph 013 of the new guidance sets out particular planning considerations that relate to large scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic Farms.

The deployment of large-scale solar farms can have a negative impact on the rural environment, particularly in undulating landscapes. However, the visual impact of a well-planned and well-screened solar farm can be properly addressed within the landscape if planned sensitively.

Particular factors a local planning authority will need to consider include:

encouraging the effective use of land by focussing large scale solar farms on previously developed and non agricultural land, provided that it is not of high environmental value;

We are actively looking for sites that have previous been developed, but generally these sites have been earmarked for alternative uses, either housing or employment use.


where a proposal involves greenfield land, whether:

(i) the proposed use of any agricultural land has been shown to be necessary and poorer quality land has been used in preference to higher quality land; and

We aim to avoid higher quality grade 1 and 2 agricultural land wherever possible. In this case all the land surrounding the Point of Connection to the national grid in the area is indicated as grade 2/3 on the Provisional Land Classification Map. Therefore we would focus on land that is grade 3. In order for the UK to meet its renewable energy targets all grid connections will need to be utilised. One of the main concern appears to be downgrading of them agricultural use from arable land to grazing land (which, as agriculture, would be permitted development in any event) then this would not appear a robust reason for declining the proposal.

(ii) the proposal allows for continued agricultural use where applicable and/or encourages biodiversity improvements around arrays.

We intend to continue agricultural use on the site by grazing sheep. The site will be managed as Autumn / Winter / Spring grazing to encourage wild flower areas surrounding the panels. We have interest from a local sheep grazier who would be willing to rent the land to graze sheep. The main Biodiversity improvements on the site will be: i) wild flower mix sown beneath and between the panels, ii) bat & bird boxes, iii) new hedgerows and field margins. This will form part of the Biodiversity Management Plan. See Section 5.9 for further details.

that solar farms are normally temporary structures and planning conditions can be used to ensure that the installations are removed when no longer in use and the land is restored to its previous use;

The application is for a temporary permission for 25 years. We seek to have the following condition on any approval ”The planning permission hereby granted is for a period from the date of this decision until the date occurring 25 years and 6 months after the date of commencement of the development hereby permitted. Written notification of the date of commencement shall be given to the Local Planning Authority no later than 14 days after the event.”

the proposal’s visual impact, the effect on landscape of glint and glare and on neighbouring uses and aircraft safety;

See section 5.13 for further information on glint & glare.

the extent to which there may be additional impacts if solar arrays follow the daily movement of the sun;

The proposed solar models will be in a fixed position and not follow the sun.

the need for, and impact of, security measures such as lights and fencing;

See section 5.11 for further information on security & lighting.


great care should be taken to ensure heritage assets are conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance, including the impact of proposals on views important to their setting. As the significance of a heritage asset derives not only from its physical presence, but also from its setting, careful consideration should be given to the impact of large scale solar farms on such assets. Depending on their scale, design and prominence, a large scale solar farm within the setting of a heritage asset may cause substantial harm to the significance of the asset;

The closest Listed Buildings to the site is Chapel House Farm House (approx. 500m to the west) and a mile post (approx. 750m to the southwest) The solar farm will not affect the setting of either of the Listed Buildings due to the location and existing landscaping, which provides separation. See Heritage Assessment for further information. The proposed solar farm site not in a designated area.

the potential to mitigate landscape and visual impacts through, for example, screening with native hedges;

See Landscape & Visual Assessment.

the energy generating potential, which can vary for a number of reasons including, latitude and aspect.

The proposed capacity of the solar farm is 18.8MW. The expected generation output would be in the region of 16,920 KWh per year, given the excellent irradiance levels in the region.

The approach to assessing cumulative landscape and visual impact of large scale solar farms is likely to be the same as assessing the impact of wind turbines. However, in the case of ground-mounted solar panels it should be noted that with effective screening and appropriate land topography the area of a zone of visual influence could be zero.

See Landscape & Visual Assessment. Due to the existing topography and the existing/proposed hedgerow screening, the zone of visual influence is practically zero.

Local Policy

3.12 The East Staffordshire Local Plan was adopted in December 2006. The Core Strategy provides the over-arching strategy and long term vision for East Staffordshire. It seeks to minimise the impacts of climate change by promoting the prudent use of resources through sustainable patterns of development, investment in green infrastructure, minimising the use of resources and energy, increasing reuse and recycling of natural resources, increasing the use of renewable energy technologies and minimising pollution, including greenhouse gas emissions.


4 PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

4.1 This section provides an assessment of the planning considerations raised by the proposal.

4.2 We believe the considerations to be:

1. Is the development of the site for renewable energy supported by current and emerging planning policy guidance?

2. Is the site suitable or appropriate for continued agricultural use?

3. Will the solar farm adversely affect the character of the area in terms of

landscape and visual impact?

4. Is the scale and massing of the solar farm appropriate for the site?

5. Is the solar farm accessible?

6. Will the solar farm have any adverse on Ecology?

7. Will the solar farm result in increased flood risk?

1. Is the development of the site for renewable energy supported by current and emerging planning policy guidance?

4.3 The proposed site lies within the countryside. There is currently a presumption that development in the countryside is restricted. However, the proposals are considered to be acceptable as they represent an alternative use of the land for the generation of renewable energy. There is a strong presumption in favour of renewable energy developments at National and Local levels.

2. Is the site suitable or appropriate for continued agricultural use?

4.4 The site will still be capable of being used for agricultural use. The whole of the site will be seeded with a proprietary grass and wildflower mix to develop the arable field into an area that greatly benefits local wildlife. The field will be grazed by sheep. During the 25 year lifespan of the solar farm, the agricultural use is decreased, but the site can swiftly returned to full agricultural production if required. Unlike other more permanent forms of development such as housing or commercial development.

4.5 The key point is that the proposals represent only a temporary use of the site for a period of 25 years and is completely reversible. The proposal also allows the soil to recover, after years of intensive agricultural use.

3. Will the solar farm adversely affect the character of the area in terms of landscape and visual impact?

4.6 The proposals would have a minimal effect on the visual amenity and quality of the surrounding landscape as the development proposals are benign in nature and partially screened by existing and proposed landscaping. The extent of landscape and visual effects predicted for this solar array proposal will be of a highly localised nature. Any significant visual effects will be limited to users of the immediate roads of the site, and walkers within the edge of the site. Significant landscape character effects will be limited.


The proposed landscape mitigation measure will include woodland planting along the boundaries, infill planting to encourage thickening of the existing perimeter hedgerows.

4. Is the scale and massing of the solar farm appropriate for the site?

4.7 The solar farm has been designed to maximise the exposure of the PV panels to irradiation from the sun. The number of PV panels on the site maximises the electricity generating power of the site in order to ensure the viability of the project. Viability is a significant factor that should be given the proper consideration in any decision to grant planning consent. The solar farm is of low profile and follows the contours of the land.

4.8 It is considered that the low height of the scheme will enable the solar farm to be accommodated into the wider surroundings, therefore limiting any visual effects.

5. Is the solar farm accessible?

4.9 Vehicular access to the site is provided from an existing concrete farm track that leads to Tutbury Road, A511

4.10 When the Solar Farm is in operation, it will not generate any significant traffic movements, security and maintenance staff will be the only visitors. There will also be a small amount of traffic associated with the management of the sheep grazing the land surrounding the panels, this will also provide additional surveillance over the solar installation. During the 16 week construction of the site, vehicle movements will be higher and as a result warrant more detailed consideration. See Construction Management Plan

4.11 It is envisaged that 100 HGV movements will be required to and from the site during the construction phase of the solar farm.

6. Will the solar farm have any adverse effects on Ecology?

4.12 The location of the solar farm has been sited to mitigate any potential ecological issues. The site is not located within any ecological statutory designations. The ecological implications of the solar farm have been considered in the Ecological Appraisal which accompanies the planning application.

4.13 An Ecological Report has be taken and forms part of the full planning application. A Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP) will be developed as pre commencement condition for the solar farm.

4.14 The solar farm will have an overall positive effect on Ecology.

7. Will the solar farm result in increased flood risk?

4.15 The development proposals involve driving metal piles into the ground, removing the need for concrete foundations. As such, the development proposals do not reduce the permeability of the land on which it is sited.

4.16 It is therefore considered that the development proposals will neither increase the flood risk on-site or increase the risk of flooding further downstream. A Flood Risk Assessment forms part of the full planning application.


5 DESIGN ASPECTS

5.1 Use

5.1.1 The site is currently in agricultural use. The proposed Solar Farm will involve a Change of use of land from (1) agriculture to (2) mixed use for agriculture and use for the generation of renewable energy. The proposal would have a renewable energy output of 18.7 MW which would be able to generate enough clean electricity to power approximately 4,320 homes.

5.1.2 The solar cells on the PV arrays are designed to absorb as much sunlight as possible and not to reflect it, in order to maximise energy production and the overall efficiency of the solar cells. Existing PV array systems in mainland Europe have been located in close proximity to airports. The PV arrays are designed for a 25 year life span, however many PV arrays erected during the 1980's remain in operation some thirty years later.

5.1.3 The Rolleston Park Solar Farm is proposed as a temporary installation for a period of 25 years. The solar farm could produce a carbon saving in the order of 10,340 Tonnes of CO2 per year, a saving of 258,500 tonnes of carbon over the lifetime of the solar farm.

5.1.4 On decommissioning the system at the end of its useful life, the panels and associated infrastructure will be removed and recycled. The land can then be returned to previous agricultural use, making the whole proposal completely reversible.

5.2 Amount

5.2.1 Proposed development on site will consist primarily of the framework to support the panels and the panels themselves. In addition, a number of small Inverter, Transformer and Grid Connection/Control Room buildings will be introduced, plus agricultural fencing. This is the minimal level of development necessary to ensure that the site performs effectively and efficiently with regards to its main purpose of generating renewable energy.

5.2.2 The solar farm scheme proposes the installation of:

Approx. 1528 mounting racks, each with an array of 48 solar panels, totalling approximately 73,344 panels;

16no. swicthgear/transformers/inverters enclosures one grid connection cabinet one comms cabinet one substation

5.3 Layout

5.3.1 The PV arrays would run East-West across the site, each array will be mounted on

a simple framework so that panels are facing due south, to maximise amount of energy generated.


Site Layout Plan

5.3.2 The PV arrays are arranged in a pre-determined spacing which maximises energy output from each array by minimising overshadowing caused by the adjoining array.

Typical Section Through Solar Arrays

5.3.3 The Inverter, Transformer and associated switch gear are required to convert the DC energy produced by the arrays into AC energy, they will be spread equally across the site as indicated on the submitted drawings. A Grid Connection/Control Room is also necessary to house the equipment that connects the solar farm to the local electricity grid. This should ideally be sited in close proximity to the grid connection adjacent to the site, it is to be located towards the south eastern boundary. See drawing 08/PA002.


5.3.4 Grid Connection See drawing 08/PA010 for cable grid connection route Western Power Distribution (WPD) have confirmed that there is capacity in the existing grid for the proposed Solar Farm. Push Energy have secured the Point of Connection (POC) from WPD.

5.4 Scale

5.4.1 The scale of development on site is determined by the equipment necessary to efficiently generate renewable energy. However, whereas some forms of renewable energy generation, such as wind turbines, are of such a scale that they will have a significant impact upon the immediate and wider surroundings, this is not considered to be the case with the solar farms. All of the plant and buildings on site will be at or below single storey level, ensuring that it will not even be visible from most viewpoints outside of the site.

5.4.2 The 18.7MW PV solar array is made up from racks of panels. The maximum height of each rack is 2.0m above ground floor level, they are angled at 20 degrees.

5.4.3 The overall size of each of the photovoltaic panels is 1.65m x 0.94m, there are approx. 73,344 panels that make up the array.

5.4.4 The proposed Inverter/Transformer Pods are designed to be as small as possible. They are a maximum of 2.5m high, with the Substation/control room occupying the largest footprint. The structures will not be prominent within the proposals and are smaller than many isolated stores, sheds and barns typically found in the countryside.

5.5 Appearance

5.5.1 The arrays of panels will be mounted on a simple metal framework. The main purpose of the mounting structure is to hold the modules in the required position without undue stress. It must be capable of withstanding appropriate environmental stresses for the location, such as wind or snow loading. The framework will be driven into the soil, removing the need for deep foundations or piling. Such supporting systems are designed to avoid the use of concrete foundations. The panels themselves are constructed with a protective aluminium frame, which provides structural rigidity. The front face of the panel is made from a sheet of glass covered with a non-reflective coating. This ensures that the maximum amount of light is absorbed by the photovoltaic cells, improving efficiency and reducing glare to a minimum. The panels will be largely hidden from public view. Compared to other forms of renewable energy generation - notably, for example, wind turbine generation - such a solar scheme is considered to have a very limited impact on the appearance of the wider countryside and landscape in the area.

5.5.2 The supporting columns and array framework are constructed of galvanised steel.

5.5.3 The photovoltaic arrays have been positioned to minimise their visual impact.

5.5.4 Due to a combination of planting adjoining the application site, local topography and the low level nature of the proposals, the majority of views from outside of the site will not be affected by the proposed scheme. It is recognised that the proposed development would be visible from a very limited number of places. In these cases the proposed measures of introducing new hedgerow planting along the boundary, will help reduce any adverse effect on the area’s visual amenity.


This issue is assessed in detail in the accompanying Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA).

5.6 Access - Construction Period

5.6.1 Vehicular access to the site will be via Tutbury Road, A511.

5.6.2 All construction vehicles will enter and exit the site in forward gear. Banksmen will not direct general traffic, but will indicate to heavy and large construction vehicles when it is appropriate for them to enter and leave the site

5.6.3 The majority of construction traffic is assumed to travel using the M1/M6 as the

equipment is likely to be imported from the continent or other destinations in the UK. The vehicles will leave the M1 onto the A50 heading west, exiting onto the A511 heading south torwards Tutbury. Additional directional signage will be provided to give advance warning of the appropriate HGV route.

5.6.4 The existing access from A511 is currently an access route for the existing cars and machinery for the agricultural fields, it is already subject to use by tractors and HGVs. Therefore, it is considered suitable for use by the relatively small number of HGV’s associated with the short construction period of the solar farm.

5.6.5 The construction will be split into 2 phases taking approximately a total of 16 weeks to complete. The first phase will consist of earthworks, installing the support frames and bringing to site the Inverter/Transformer cabinets and grid connection/control room. The second phase will be the installation of the PV panels.

5.6.6 Construction workers will access the site by cars or light vans, during the construction period there are anticipated to be around 30-40 construction workers employed, not all will be on site at one time. Car parking for construction workers will be provided within the site.

5.6.7 It is anticipated that there will be 1-2 large vehicles arriving on site each day of the construction period. Construction workers will arrive on site, first thing in the morning and depart in the evening. The levels of traffic generated during the short construction period is not considered to have an impact on the operation, or safety of the local highway network.

Access - Ongoing Maintenance

5.6.8 Once the Solar Farm is fully operational, there will be no staff based on site, it will not generate any significant traffic movements, with security and maintenance staff the only likely regular visitors. No moving parts, means very little maintenance is required. Maintenance of the PV arrays will be carried out by an engineer, visiting an installation of this size approximately 4-5 days each year. The output of the Solar Farm is monitored remotely via a web based system at Push Energy offices in Colchester, Essex. If there were to be a major decrease in output an engineer would be sent out to investigate.

5.6.9 There will also be a small amount of traffic associated with the management of the sheep grazing the land surrounding the panels, this will also provide additional surveillance over the solar installation.


5.7 Landscaping

5.7.1 The impact upon the local landscape will be given careful consideration in putting

forward the proposed scheme. Due to the nature of the proposal, it is necessary to operate from an area that is not subject to overshadowing. The proposal will be designed to have no affect on the existing landscaping.

5.7.2 The gentle sloping site makes it attractive for solar farm development where solar gain is greatest, but there is a need to consider the extent to which the proposal affects the character of the existing landscape and its wider visibility.

5.7.3 Nigel Cowlin Landscape Planning Consultants have carried out a Landscape & Visual Appraisal (LVA) of the site and proposals and it forms part the Full Planning Application.

5.7.4 The site has been carefully selected in order to gain maximum benefit from existing, mature landscaping; native species hedging will be preserved and managed along the boundaries. The whole of the site will be seeded with a proprietary grass and wildflower mix to develop the arable field into an area that greatly benefits local wildlife. In addition, the fields will be grazed by sheep which will retain a "double-crop" agricultural use whilst keeping the grass below the panel height and ensuring that scrub does not establish.

5.7.5 Overall, the landscape and visual impacts of this scheme are considered modest

and within the accommodation capacity of the location and local landscape. This is considered a good location for such a development. There may be an impact immediately adjacent to the site, but this is a highly localised effect, landscape and visual effects should not be considered a barrier to the acceptability of this solar farm proposal.

5.8 Noise

5.8.1 Given the ‘passive’ nature of the development’s operation, with no moving parts or machinery, noise generation during the operation of the solar farm is minimal.

5.8.2 The noise associated with the construction phase of the development will be very short term and is unlikely to affect any nearby residential properties due to the separation distance.

5.9 Ecology & Biodiversity

5.9.1 There is no reported direct evidence of the specific impact of solar farms on

ecology in the UK. In the case of the solar farm proposal, the position of key trees and hedges within the application site have been surveyed and are to be retained, avoiding the potential negative ecological impact associated with vegetation clearance.

5.9.2 A preliminary ecological appraisal of the site has been undertaken by Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group and is submitted as part of the full planning application.

5.9.3 Solar farms present a great opportunity for biodiversity. The panels are mounted on piles meaning minimal disturbance to the ground. The panels generally have no moving parts and the associated infrastructure disturbs less than 5% of the ground. The piles upon which the panels are mounted take up less than 1% of the land area. Normally only 35% of the surface is over-sailed by panels. The panels are raised 800mm above the ground, so a field utilised for solar farm development is


still excellent for plant growth and potentially for wildlife enhancements and complementary agricultural activities such as managed sheep grazing. Following completion of the solar farm, there is little human activity apart from occasional maintenance visits. The site will have a lifespan of 25 years which is sufficient time for real wildlife benefits.

5.9.4 A number of options that can utilised to enhance biodiversity on solar farms including planting of new hedgerows, creation of field margins, wild flower meadows, the installation of bird and bat boxes and installation of solitary bee hotels.

5.9.5 Solar farms can greatly enhance local biodiversity, particularly when located within an intensive arable agricultural landscape, yet it is important that developments avoid ecologically sensitive sites.

5.9.6 The recently published BRE National Solar Centre Biodiversity Guidance for Solar Developments provides excellent guidance. Push Energy are working the author Dr Guy Parker, on Biodiversity Management Plans for our other approved solar farms in the south east region.

5.9.7 A Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP) will be developed as pre commencement condition for the solar farm. The BMP will:

identify key elements of biodiversity on site, including legally protected species, species and habitats of high conservation value and designated areas in close proximity to the proposed site. This has been carried out as part of the Ecological Appraisal.

identify any potential impacts arising from the site’s development, and

outline mitigations to address these;

detail specific objectives for the site to benefit key elements of biodiversity and the habitat enhancements that are planned to achieve these;

contribute to biodiversity in the wider landscape and local ecological

network by improving connectivity between existing habitats;

identify species for planting and suitable sources for seed and plants;

consider wider enhancements such as nesting and roosting boxes;

summarise a management regime for habitats for the entire life of the site;

provide a plan for monitoring the site; and adapting management as appropriate to the findings of this monitoring; and,

set out how the site will be decommissioned

5.10 Flood Risk and Drainage

5.10.1 The solar farm will not have a significant impact on hydrology because the

installation and operation of the solar PV panels and associated infrastructure will not substantially increase the time taken for rainwater to reach the ground. The panels will cover approximately one quarter of the total site area and rainwater should simply hit the panels and drain straight into the ground.


A Flood Risk Assessment has been carried out and forms part of the Full Planning Application.

5.11 Site security, Management and Maintenance

5.11.1 In view of the substantial cost associated with the solar farm, the overall site would be fenced to prevent unauthorised intrusion and to satisfy insurer requirements.

5.11.2 Due to the location of the site, it will be enclosed by a 1.8m high livestock fence (see drawings JT08/PA008 for details). Entrances will be accessed by double five bar galvanised steel manual security gates. The fence would have a Perimeter Fence Alarm Security System which would detect cutting or climbing of the fence. An alarm signal would be sent to a local contracted security company, who would then take appropriate action. The fencing is of an agricultural type and sits well within its surroundings.

5.11.3 Low level infrared CCTV cameras will be mounted on transformer/inverter housings and support framework of the PV arrays. They would be activated by motion and alert a local contracted security company, who would then take appropriate action.

5.11.4 No permanent lighting is proposed. Manually operated portable lights may be required in the case of an emergency maintenance visit during the hours of darkness.

5.11.5 It is required by the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) that a security light is fixed to the substation building. In the unlikely event that there is a fault in the substation, should a repair team need to make a site visit during the hours of darkness, then the light allows for safe access and visibility to carry out any necessary works. The security light would only be operated by motion sensor, only operating when the substation is approached. It would not be illuminated on a permanent basis.

5.12 Economic Impact

5.12.1 Push Energy Ltd is a company based in Colchester Essex. Push Energy is unique

in that it is vertically integrated with an in house Engineering Design and Procurement Contractor (EPC) Push Build Ltd. Where possible we will engage local subcontractors and their work force, allowing us to call upon their local knowledge and expertise of the area. Push Energy has been working with UK manufactures to design a support system that is manufactured and installed by a local company in the region. The system has now been approved and will used on all of Push Energy’s future sites. Furthermore, operations and maintenance contracts will be run by Push Build Limited over the lifetime of the projects to provide a consistent level of oversight and expertise, and to maintain the strong relationship and expected service levels with the landowner.

5.12.2 Push Energy’s solar developments will help to provide much needed jobs and investment in the Construction and Manufacturing sectors in the Midlands.


5.13 Glint and Glare

5.13.1 Glint refers to a specular reflection, produced as a direct reflection of the sun from a surface. Whereas, glare refers to a continuous source of brightness. i.e. the general reflection of a bright sky, rather than the direct reflection from the sunlight. There is a general misconception that solar panels result in significant glint and glare effects, with reflected sunlight creating a safety risk for planes and traffic. However, this is not the case. The glass used in production of PV panels is specifically designed to absorb as much daylight as possible, fulfilling their primary function. The PV panels therefore have a low level of reflectivity in comparison to window glass. Whilst there is potential for any minimal diffused glare to be reflected directly skyward, this would not be visible and does not create any safety hazard for planes. PV Panels have been installed on terminal buildings at both Birmingham and Gatwick Airports and do not have any adverse effects on the pilots.

5.13.2 The comparative reflection analysis (figure 4) shows the reflection of solar in comparison to everyday objects.

5.13.3 Figure 4

5.14 Consultations

5.14.1 Prior to Public consultation, the Landowner visited some of the surrounding local

residents that may be affected to discuss the proposals and invite them to the Public Consultation.

5.14.2 The Public Consultation was held on Tuesday 25th February 2014, at Tutbury Village Hall, Monk Street, Tutbury, DE13 9NA. A Statement of Community Involvement forms part of the Full Planning Application.


5.14.3 The Public Consultations was well attended, comments were generally positive, one of the concerns raised during the consultation process was the slightly more exposed eastern boundary adjacent to the Burton Road. The owners of both Burton Road Farm & Swallows Barn on the Burton Road felt that the proposed development was very close to their properties. They requested a meeting on site to fully assess the full impact. Push energy agreed with their concerns and would look at revising the scheme to reduce the impact. The best way of reducing the impact would be to remove the panels on the north facing slope adjacent to the Burton Road (see Plan A). This would require approx. 13,000 panels to be removed, making the project less viable. The alternative would be to utilise a 15 degree panel model, which reduces the area required to achieve capacity required. This also reduces the overall height of the panels to a maximum of 1.7m above ground level. The 15 degree model is more complex to build, but due benefits that could be achieved its was deemed worthwhile. Numerous layouts where prepared and assessed by out Landscape consultants.

Plan showing that panels have been removed from north facing slope, which is prominit when view from Burton Road.


Plan A – Pre Application Advice & Public Consultation


The revised scheme (see Plan B) was presented the owners of both Burton Road Farm & Swallows Barn on site. Push energy explained the exercise carried out to reduce the visual impact. The owners Burton Road Farm & Swallows Barn are very pleased with our revisions and acknowledged the effort we have made. The owner of Swallows Barn stated that that they would not object if a scheme was submitted showing revised layout.

Plan B – Revised scheme - Eastern section of field parcel 4 removed, field parcel 5 to the south completely removed.


The other advantage of using the 15 degree model is the removal of the small field parcel 5 to the south. One of owners of the Lount Farm complex initially raised concerns about this field parcel, as their property could possibly have views from south. They have now confirmed that they are pleased that the field parcel has now been removed and would not make an objection.

Plan showing location of Burton Road Farm, Swallows Barn & Lount Farm complex

5.14.2 Pre application advice was sought and a letter was received back on the 16th April 2014. It states that in principal the council will be willing to support the development providing a number of issues are overcome. These include; additional screening from the road to the east of the development, a landscape and visual appraisal and details of site selection. They also note Wildlife, Ecology and Archeology will need to be looked at. All this information forms the full planning application.


6 CONCLUSION

6.1 The proposals are compliant with all relevant national planning policies, and we believe will not have an adverse impact on landscape character or residential amenity. There are positive benefits arising from a renewable energy project such as this, as it will raise the profile of renewable energy in the local population, and may encourage greater take up of solar power on domestic properties as the benefits are seen and understood. Overall, the proposals comply with planning policy and represent a necessary step towards meeting the UK’s climate change obligations. We hope therefore that the scheme will receive the support of the Council.


Appendix A

Manufacturers Literature

HIGH PERFORMANCE SOLAR MODULES

rec Peak energy SERIESREC Peak Energy Series modules are the perfect choice for building solar systems that combine long lasting product quality with reliable power output. REC combines high quality design and manufacturing standards to produce high-performance solar modules with uncompromising quality.

Robust and duRable design

moRe poweR peR m2

optimized foR all sunlight conditions

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www.recgroup.com

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3895

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REC PEak EnERgy SERIES

geneRal data

tempeRatuRe Ratings

note! Specifications subject to change without notice.

electRical data @ stc Rec235pe Rec240pe Rec245pe Rec250pe Rec255pe Rec260pe

Nominal Power - PMPP (Wp) 235 240 245 250 255 260

Watt Class Sorting - (W) 0/+5 0/+5 0/+5 0/+5 0/+5 0/+5

Nominal Power Voltage - VMPP (V) 29.5 29.7 30.1 30.2 30.5 30.7

Nominal Power Current - IMPP (A) 8.06 8.17 8.23 8.30 8.42 8.50

Open Circuit Voltage - VOC (V) 36.6 36.8 37.1 37.4 37.6 37.8

Short Circuit Current - ISC (A) 8.66 8.75 8.80 8.86 8.95 9.01

Module Efficiency (%) 14.2 14.5 14.8 15.1 15.5 15.8

maXimum Ratings

ceRtification waRRanty

10 year product warranty25 year linear power output warranty (max. degression in performance of 0.7% p.a.) See warranty conditions for further details.

mechanical data

Dimensions: 1665 x 991 x 38 mm

Area: 1.65 m²

Weight: 18 kg

Nominal Operating Cell Temperature (NOCT) 45.7°C (±2°C)

Temperature Coefficient of PMPP -0.40 %/°C

Temperature Coefficient of VOC -0.27 %/°C

Temperature Coefficient of ISC 0.024 %/°C

REC is a leading global provider of solar electricity solutions. With nearly two decades of expertise, we offer sustainable, high-performing products, services and investment opportunities for the solar and electronics industries. Together with our partners, we create value by providing solutions that better meet the world's growing electricity needs. Our 2,300 employees worldwide generated revenues of more than NOK 7 billion in 2012, approximately EUR 1 billion.

Analysed data demonstrates that 99.7% of modules produced have current and voltage tolerance of ±3% from nominal values. Values at standard test conditions STC (airmass AM 1.5, irradiance 1000 W/m², cell temperature 25°C). At low irradiance of 200 W/m² (AM 1.5 and cell temperature 25°C) at least 97% of the STC module efficiency will be achieved.

Nominal operating cell temperature NOCT (800 W/m², AM 1.5, windspeed 1 m/s, ambient temperature 20°C).

15.8%

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yEaR LInEaR PowER outPut waRRanty

Member of PV Cycle

Mounting holes

IEC 61215 & IEC 61730, IEC 62716 (ammonia resistance) & IEC 61701 (salt mist - severity level 6).

Operational Temperature: -40 ... +80°C

Maximum System Voltage: 1000 V

Maximum Snow Load: 550 kg/m² (5400 Pa)

Maximum Wind Load: 244 kg/m² (2400 Pa)

Max Series Fuse Rating: 25 A

Max Reverse Current: 25 A

Cell Type: 60 REC PE multi-crystalline 3 strings of 20 cells with bypass diodes

Glass: 3.2 mm solar glass with anti-reflection surface treatment

Back Sheet: Double layer highly resistant polyesterFrame: Anodized aluminium (silver)Junction Box: IP67 rated

4 mm² solar cable, 0.9 m + 1.2 mConnectors: MC4 (4 mm²)

MC4 connectable (4 mm²) Radox twist lock (4 mm²)

electRical data @ noct Rec235pe Rec240pe Rec245pe Rec250pe Rec255pe Rec260pe

Nominal Power - PMPP (Wp) 179 183 187 189 193 197

Nominal Power Voltage - VMPP (V) 27.5 27.7 28.1 28.3 28.5 29.0

Nominal Power Current - IMPP (A) 6.51 6.58 6.64 6.68 6.77 6.81

Open Circuit Voltage - VOC (V) 34.2 34.4 34.7 35.0 35.3 35.7

Short Circuit Current - ISC (A) 6.96 7.03 7.08 7.12 7.21 7.24

Measurements in mm.

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