Limiting the visual impact of solar

The APA’s Planning Advisory Memo noted the importance of considering the overall visual impact of a proposed industrial-scale solar project, not just from neighboring properties but from scenic roads and hilltops to avoid negative impacts on the community and on historic areas:

• The visual impact of utility-scale solar facilities can be significantly minimized with effective screening and buffering, but this is more challenging in historic or scenic landscapes. Solar facilities adjacent to scenic byways or historic corridors may negatively impact the rural aesthetic along these transportation routes. Buffering or screening may also be appropriate along main arterials or any public right-of-way, regardless of special scenic or historic designation.
• The location of large solar facilities also needs to account for views from public rights-of-way. Scenic or historic areas should be avoided, while other sites should be effectively screened from view with substantial vegetative or other types of buffers. Berms, for example, can provide a very effective screen, particularly if combined with appropriate vegetation.

Planning for utility-scale solar energy facilities, p 5

See also:

• Balancing solar & other uses
• Considering land use risks
• Planning for post-solar land use
• Understanding risks to agriculture & forestry
• Controlling stormwater & erosion
• Protecting wildlife corridors