DEVELOPMENT
PROCESS
THE STAGES
Here at Integrum Renewable Energy, we follow a tried and tested development process to ensure all projects are completed to the highest of standards. See our 4-stage process below.
SITE IDENTIFICATION
Using GIS software, we identify potentially suitable solar sites which have features such as proximity to available grid capacity, are flat or south facing, have the necessary acreage for the development and are outside designated environmental and planning constraints. Once identified we contact landowners to ascertain interest. From there, we agree commercial and legal terms so that Integrum can continue to evaluate and develop the project.
FEASIBILITY AND DESIGN
Integrum's highly skilled and experienced engineers design high-quality projects which can generate significant volumes of renewable energy. Included in this process is establishing a viable grid connection point and we work closely with the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to establish the most appropriate connection to the network. In designing a solar farm, we take in to account physical elements such as topography, shading and proximity to houses as well as technical considerations such as using the most up to date technologies on the market. At this stage we also look at what content can be delivered by local contractors and the locally employed supply chain.
ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING
Solar farms require planning permission to be sought, usually from the local authority. As part of this process we undertake a formal scoping exercise to determine if a statutory Environmental Impact Assessment is required. Integrum undertake extensive environmental assessments to determine if there are any adverse impacts to the environment. Included are assessments of visual impact, ecological impacts, impacts to heritage assets and other detailed studies. Following this process, we apply for planning permission with the relevant authority and engage in consultation with the public and statutory bodies such as highways and the Environment Agency.
CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION
Utilising our expertise in electrical engineering the project would be built, extensively tested and commissioned into operation into operation with clean, green energy being produced for the local network and for businesses. Integrum is also an operation and maintenance contractor and therefore we can ensure the project operates within specified parameters for the life of the project.
ENGAGING WITH OUR LAND OWNERS
Once there is consensus between the landowner and Integrum to develop a solar farm we would agree a formal contract based on agreed Heads of Terms (HoTs) which would then be reflected in an Option for Lease Agreement. The HoTs set out the general principles of the Option and Lease and include the rent per acre being offered, payments under the Option Agreement, the period of the agreements and the obligations on Integrum and the landowner.
The Option Agreement is a document which provides Integrum with the ability and security to continue development of the site and to provide the necessary time to determine whether a solar farm on a plot of land is viable. We pay an annual amount during the Option period, which is usually between 3 to 5 years. Should the development succeed in gaining planning permission, a grid connection, and a customer for the electricity we may then execute the Lease Agreement and construct the project. During the Option period the landowner can continue operating the land for agricultural purposes.
The Lease is much the same as any property Lease and sets out the obligations of payment, rights of access and payment terms. A typical solar farm lease has a 30-35 year term and therefore provides the landowner and Integrum with a long term partnership during the operation of the project. Included in the Lease is the obligation on the developer to decommission the project at the end of its life.
The Option Agreement is a document which provides Integrum with the ability and security to continue development of the site and to provide the necessary time to determine whether a solar farm on a plot of land is viable. We pay an annual amount during the Option period, which is usually between 3 to 5 years. Should the development succeed in gaining planning permission, a grid connection, and a customer for the electricity we may then execute the Lease Agreement and construct the project. During the Option period the landowner can continue operating the land for agricultural purposes.
The Lease is much the same as any property Lease and sets out the obligations of payment, rights of access and payment terms. A typical solar farm lease has a 30-35 year term and therefore provides the landowner and Integrum with a long term partnership during the operation of the project. Included in the Lease is the obligation on the developer to decommission the project at the end of its life.
FINALISING A PROJECT
Unlike many other technologies, solar has very little impact on the land. The solar panels are pile driven into the ground and can easily be removed and recycled. Once the project has ceased generating it can be removed and the land handed back in the same condition it was given. There may be a requirement to retain the small DNO substation, however this would be discussed at the end of the project.
GET IN TOUCH
If you have any unanswered questions or want to know more about us, please get in touch.
Integrum Renewable Energy Limited is a specialist in renewable energy development in the UK. We would love to hear more about you and your project, so please get in touch!