Benefits of Developing Brightfields
Solar photovoltaics (PV) have the benefit of being easy to site, whether on brownfields or not. PV is particularly well-suited as a renewable energy option for urban areas that are highly developed and where other technologies such as wind turbines or biomass meet with resistance. There are no urban wind farms in the U.S. Solar photovoltaic technology converts sunlight directly to electricity. PV produces no air emissions, no noise, and requires no fuel input. Even a large PV array will not exacerbate traffic as it does not require a workforce to operate the facility, like a regular power plant. The US Department of Energy's promotional materials listed numerous benefits of redeveloping brownfields to brightfields. Several benefits are paraphrased below: • Sustainable economic development • Transforms a brownfield into a “green venture” – can help attract environmentally conscious businesses and improve public image. • Air quality benefits – zero emissions from solar, offset emissions during peak usage times when utilities often activate older facilities with higher emissions. • Compatible with diverse end uses – PV can be installed on a variety of commercial, industrial, and residential properties. PV arrays can also be installed directly on the ground on a brownfield without penetrating the surface of the property in situations where the soil should not be disturbed. • Adaptable to various site sizes – the size of the PV array and installation method can be tailored to meet the site conditions. The rule of thumb was that a solar array that covers three acres can generate approximately one megawatt of power – enough for 200 homes. • Easy installation, minimal maintenance, relatively movable • An attractive interim use option – relatively easy to move and install. An otherwise unused brownfield could host a PV array that could later be moved to another location when the site is redeveloped. • Reliable in diverse locations – solar energy is a reliable power sources in most parts of the US. While certain locations such as Arizona and New Mexico have the most favorable conditions for solar energy, Chicago has about 80% of the solar resource of Miami. • Advanced technology and design – solar panels employ advanced technology and can be easily integrated into designs for new buildings, renovations of existing structures, and contemporary landscapes. • Employment opportunities – a PV manufacturing facility that produces 10 MW of PV modules annually employs approximately 80 skilled technical workers. Source: US Department of Energy, http://www.eere.energy.gov/wip/pdfs/brightfields.pdf
Benefits of Brightfields
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