FAQ
Appearance
Lightstar will consult with you throughout the development stage to ensure that the visual impact of the solar farm will be minimal. We specialize in incorporating natural screening such as trees and native plants to help mitigate any unwanted visual impacts. Solar farms are low-profile structures and typically do not pose a significant hindrance to visual sightlines.
It is a ground-mounted framing system that is usually pile driven or ballasted depending on the soil. The framing system holds the solar modules in a series of lengths that are south or south east facing. Typically, the modules sit approximately 6 to 8 feet off the ground. Usually sited on an area of the parcel that can preserve or be integrated into the natural beauty of the area.
No. The solar farm’s inverters will produce a very low decibel sound while operating during the day, however it will not be a noticeable disturbance. At night, the solar farm will not be producing power and thus does not produce any sound.
Development Process
There is no cost burden for the landowner. Lightstar’s experienced team will be responsible for the entire development and construction process and all associated costs.
Generally, for a 5 megawatt solar farm the development process, from permitting to operation, takes 12 months. However, the development timeline can vary depending on the utility company’s interconnection process and the local/municipal permitting and approval processes. In addition, seasonal considerations can impact the construction timeline, adding between 3 and 5 months, however Lightstar works to mitigate these extensions where possible.
Payment
Lease rates are determined by many factors, such as the specific characteristics of the land. Solar hosts can expect a payment above the current rentable value of the land. Contact Lightstar to discuss your specific site and we can provide a preliminary lease amount estimate.
Lease payments will be made quarterly and are fixed (with an annual escalator) for the life of the project. Regardless of system performance, the lease payments will occur as laid out in the agreement.
Term
Typically, we will lease the land for 20 years, with the option to extend. The length of the lease term depends on the specific market or program.
Yes. Landowners are free to use the portion of their land not sited with solar however they would like. For projects designed to accommodate dual-use, landowners are able to continue to farm the land in and around the solar array. To learn more about dual-use, please contact us.
Lightstar will be responsible for removal of all equipment and infrastructure associated with the project. Lightstar will pay all costs associated with the decommissioning activity.
