Energy Systems + Sustainable Solutions Test 1 lectures 8-11

Distributed Solar

Non-residential (roofs of houses) can be residential too. Not in a big array like Skidmore’s solar array.

Levelized Cost

Cost of project divided by how much energy you will get out of it in its lifetime.

How do PV panels work?

Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

A contract between two parties, one which generates electricity (the seller) and one which is looking to purchase electricity (the buyer).  FERC regulates.

Planned Unit Development (PUD)

Describes a type of unit development that permits a developer to meet community land use goals without being bound by existing zoning requirement (was originally zoned as a Moderate Density Residential 2).

New York State’s Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) Act

Requires all state and local government agencies to consider environmental impacts equally with social and economic factors during discretionary decision-making.  NYSDEC issues regulations regarding SEQR, but it is self-enforcing.

SEQR Process

1) Classifying the Action (decide whether it is subject to SEQR)

2) Complete the correct Environmental Assessment Form

3) Coordinate Review - The lead agency determines what additional information is necessary, what agencies need to be involved, public comment periods, etc.

4) Determine Significance -

• Negative Declaration —> will not have significant adverse effect on environment

• Positive Declaration —> Requires a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

What questions are missing from SEQR document?

All very local questions

No questions about GHGs

Contextualization of renewable energy in bigger energy picture was lacking.

PURPA (Public Utilities Regulatory Policy Act) 1978

• Specifically aimed at promoting conservation and greater use of domestic and renewable energy

• Created a moment for small-scale producers by compelling regional utlilties to purchase this power at favorable rates

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