As a leading Solar EPC, Vanguard Energy Partners takes pride in our ability to overcome any challenges in the way of our construction process. Since our inception in 2008 we have made every effort to provide the absolute best service to our clients, including working through any adverse conditions that come our way.
Why repurposing brownfields is important
Repurposing brownfield sites by installing solar arrays on them is a critical step toward a sustainable future. Brownfield sites, often seen as environmental liabilities, can be transformed into renewable energy powerhouses, making use of otherwise underutilized land. This innovative approach not only mitigates the adverse effects of hazardous material in the ground but also addresses the urgent need for clean energy solutions. By converting these spaces into solar farms, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, decrease our reliance on fossil fuels, and further contribute to the fight against climate change. Additionally, such projects create new opportunities for local communities, from job creation to increased tax revenues, fostering economic growth while promoting environmental stewardship. Embracing this strategy is essential for a greener, more resilient world.
What makes repurposed brownfield projects unique from other solar projects?
Repurposing brownfields by installing solar arrays offers a unique approach to renewable energy that sets these projects apart from other types of solar installations. Unlike conventional solar farms, which often require vast expanses of undeveloped land, brownfield solar projects transform previously unusable spaces into productive energy sites. This dual-purpose use not only maximizes land efficiency but also mitigates the environmental impact associated with brownfields by preventing contamination from hazardous materials. Additionally, these projects typically face fewer zoning and permitting challenges since the land is already designated for industrial use. By leveraging the existing infrastructure and addressing a critical environmental concern, brownfield solar arrays exemplify innovation in sustainable energy development, turning what was once a liability into a valuable asset for clean energy generation.
Typical Challenges
Repurposing brownfields into solar arrays presents a unique set of challenges that require careful consideration and innovative solutions.
- Site Stability & Settlement: As decomposing waste can cause the ground to shift, the differential settlement can lead to misalignment of the solar panels and damage to the mounting structures.
- Environmental & Regulatory Compliance: Potential contamination from the brownfield must be mitigated to prevent harm to the surrounding ecosystem. Permitting regulatory hurdles can also pose significant delays, as these projects must comply with both environmental protection standards and energy generation regulations.
- Soil Conditions & Load-Bearing Capacity: The soil in brownfields is often composed of various materials, including waste, which can have poor load-bearing capacity. This requires careful engineering to ensure the foundation and supports for the solar panels are stable.
How Vanguard Energy Partners overcomes challenges
Site Stability & Settlement
- Thorough Site Assessment: VEP conducts comprehensive geotechnical surveys and monitors historical settlement data to understand the site conditions.
- Engineering Adaptations: Customized foundations and flexible mounting systems are designed to accommodate ongoing settlement, ensuring stability.
Environmental & Regulatory Compliance
- Regulatory Expertise: VEP’s team works closely with regulatory bodies to meet all requirements and obtain necessary permits.
- Minimizing Environmental Impact: Using ballasted systems that sit on the cover, VEP minimizes ground disturbance, reducing the risk of contaminant release.
Soil Conditions & Load-Bearing Capacity
- Customized Structural Design: Engineers design foundations tailored to the unique soil conditions of each site, using advanced materials and techniques to distribute loads evenly.
- Innovative Mounting Solutions: Helical piles or ground screws provide stable support structures, adapting to variable soil strengths.
Brownfield projects that Vanguard Energy Partners has completed
Southern Sky Landfills
Completed in 2017, this 14 MW project portfolio is located on 4 properly closed landfills throughout Massachusetts. Vanguard Energy Partners was hired by Sothern Sky Renewable Energy (SSRE) to provide full turnkey engineering, procurement and construction services for this portfolio using a condensed schedule which allowed SSRE to realize the full tax benefits for that year.
ILR Landfill
Completed in 2017, this 7.75 MW fixed tilt ground mount ballasted solar farm was built on a long-closed landfill on the banks of the Raritan River. The ILR project returns 21 acres of landfill space to productive use through its 23,834 solar panels that will power more than 1,200 homes each year.
Pennsauken Solar Farm
Completed in 2019, this 15.2 MW fixed tilt ground mount ballasted solar farm was the 34th Solar 4 All project built on a brownfield site. PSE&G hired Vanguard Energy Partners to act as the turnkey engineering, procurement and construction contractor for the array. This project is the largest solar array for a public utility in the state of New Jersey.
Jade Meadow
Completed in 2024, this ground mount fixed tilt solar farm was constructed on the site of a repurposed coal mine. Spanning 113 acres, the project features 7,743 posts supporting 49,660 solar panels, harnessing clean energy from otherwise unused terrain. This project has generated over 100 jobs during it’s construction phase, invigorating the local economy while contributing to Maryland’s sustainable energy goals.
Backbone
With a projected completion date in 2025, this 208 MW ground mount fixed tilt solar farm is VEP’s largest project we’ve undertaken. Constructed on a repurposed coal strip mine, this project will deliver 245,000 MWh annually of emission-free power, reducing CO2 emissions equivalent to taking 26,000 cars off the road each year. Additionally, the project creates over 200 construction jobs, supports local commerce, and further accelerates Maryland’s renewable energy goals.
