SUNSHINE ENERGY SOLAR FARM
GLARE IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT
Prepared For Sunshine Energy Australia Pty Ltd
April 2018
This disclaimer, together with any limitations specified in the proposal, apply to use of this report. This report was prepared in accordance with the scope of services for the specific purpose stated and subject to the applicable cost, time and other constraints. In preparing this report, Environmental Ethos relied on: (a) client/third party information which was not verified by Environmental Ethos except to the extent required by the scope of services, and Environmental Ethos does not accept responsibility for omissions or inaccuracies in the client/third party information; and (b) information taken at or under the particular times and conditions specified, and Environmental Ethos does not accept responsibility for any subsequent changes. This report has been prepared solely for use by, and is confidential to, the client and Environmental Ethos accepts no responsibility for its use by other persons. This proposal is subject to copyright protection and the copyright owner reserves its rights. This proposal does not constitute legal advice.
Prepared By Environmental Ethos for Sunshine Energy Australia Pty Ltd
REF NO. 18001
FINAL ISSUE: 09 April 2018
Cover Image: ToGa Wanderings
CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1. Location ............................................................................................................................................. 1
2. ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................................... 2
2.1. Scope of the Assessment ................................................................................................................... 2
2.2. Glare Assessment Parameters ........................................................................................................... 2
2.3. Glare Intensity Categories ................................................................................................................. 2
2.4. Reflection and Angle of Incidence ..................................................................................................... 3
2.5. View shed Analysis ............................................................................................................................. 5
2.6. Solar Glare Hazard Analysis ............................................................................................................... 5
2.7. Risk Assessment Approach ................................................................................................................ 6
3. EXISTING CONDITIONS ............................................................................................................................... 6
3.1. Baseline Conditions ........................................................................................................................... 6
3.2. Atmospheric Conditions .................................................................................................................... 6
4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................... 7
4.1. PV modules ........................................................................................................................................ 7
4.2. Fixed tilt system ................................................................................................................................. 7
4.3. Solar Inverters, Control Room, and Storage Buildings ....................................................................... 8
5. DESKTOP GLARE ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................................... 8
5.1. Viewshed Analysis ............................................................................................................................. 8
5.2. Solar Glare Hazard Analysis ............................................................................................................... 8
6. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ................................................................................................................................ 10
6.1. Solar Glare Hazard Analysis Tool (SGHAT) Results ........................................................................... 10
7. MANAGEMENT AND MITIGATION MEASURES ......................................................................................... 12
8. SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS .................................................................................................... 12
APPENDIX A: ...................................................................................................................................................... 14
APPENDIX B: ...................................................................................................................................................... 15
APPENDIX C: ...................................................................................................................................................... 16
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1. INTRODUCTION
This report has been prepared by Environmental Ethos on behalf of the proponent Sunshine Energy
Australia Pty Ltd to assess the potential glare impact of the proposed Sunshine Energy Solar Farm at
Kilcoy (the Project). The Project comprises of the installation and operation of a 1,500MW solar farm
that will utilise photovoltaic (PV) modules to generate electricity.
The Project site is freehold rural land described as Lots 41, 42, 43, and 127 on SP218812, Lot 120 on
CG2692, Lot 1 on RP28556, Lot 2 on SP210633, Lot 65 on CG463, Lot 1 on SP276622, Lot 135 on
CG4460, Lot 10 on SP236175, Lot 2 on SP203488, Lot 26 on SP193038, Lots 144 and 145 on C311563,
and Lot 48 on C31888 within Somerset Regional Council area. The total site area is approximately
2,055.2 hectares, the footprint of the solar farm will cover an area of approximately 600 hectares.
The PV panels will be mounted on a fixed tilt system, facing north at 30 degrees. The height of the
panels is approximately 3.2 metres above ground level, a height of 3.5 metres was used in the
modelling to allow for any slight variation.
1.1. Location
The Project site is located to the south of the D’Aguilar Highway, approximately 11km west of Kilcoy,
refer Figure 1. Harlin is located approximately 1.5km to the west to the Project site.
Figure 1: Site Location Plan
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2. ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
2.1. Scope of the Assessment
The scope of this Glare Assessment includes the following:
Description of the methodology used to undertake the study;
Assessment of the baseline conditions;
Description of the elements of the Project with the potential to influence glare including
size, height, and angle of PV modules, and type of fixing;
Identification of the viewshed and potential visibility of the Project;
Desktop mapping of potential glare at the location of sensitive receptors within the
viewshed, based on Solar Glare Hazard Analysis and viewshed analysis;
Assessment of the potential risk of glare on sensitive receptors during operation of the
Project; and
Recommended management and mitigation strategies.
2.2. Glare Assessment Parameters
Glare assessment modelling for solar farms is based on the following factors:
the tilt, orientation, and optical properties of the PV modules in the solar array;
sun position over time, taking into account geographic location;
the location of sensitive receptors (viewers); and
Screening potential of surrounding topography and vegetation.
2.3. Glare Intensity Categories
Glare refers to the human experience of reflected light. The potential hazard from solar glare is a
function of retinal irradiance (power of electromagnetic radiation per unit area produced by the
sun) and the subtended angle (size and distance) of the glare source. 1
Glare can be broadly classified into three categories: low potential for after‐image, potential for
after‐image, and potential for permanent eye damage, Figure 2 illustrates the glare intensity
categories.
1 HO, C.K., C.M. Ghanbari, and R.B. Diver, 2011, Methodology to Assess Potential Glint and Glare hazards from Concentrated Solar Power Plants
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Figure 2. Ocular impacts and Hazard Ranges2
The amount of light reflected from a PV module depends on the amount of sunlight hitting the
surface, as well as the surface reflectivity. The amount of sunlight interacting with the PV module
will vary based on geographic location, time of year, cloud cover, and PV module orientation.
1000W/m2 is generally used in most counties as an estimate of the solar energy interacting with a
PV module when no other information is available. This study modelled scenarios using 2000 W/m2
in order to cover potentially higher solar energy levels in Australia as compared to other parts of the
world. Flash blindness for a period of 4‐12 seconds (i.e. time to recovery of vision) occurs when 7‐
11 W/m2 (or 650‐1,100 lumens/m2) reaches the eye3.
2.4. Reflection and Angle of Incidence
PV modules are designed to maximise the absorption of solar energy and therefore minimise the
extent of solar energy reflected. PV modules have low levels of reflectivity between 0.03 and 0.20
depending on the specific materials, anti‐reflective coatings, and angle of incidence.4
The higher reflectivity values of 0.20, that is 20% of incident light being reflected, can occur when
the angle of incidence is greater than 50o. Figure 3 and 4 show the relationship between increased
angles of incidence and increased levels of reflected light. Where the angle of incidence remains
below 50° the amount of reflected light remains below 10%. The angle of incident is particularly
relevant to specular reflection (light reflection from a smooth surface). Diffuse reflection (light
reflection from a rough surface) may also occur in PV modules, however this is typically a result of
2 Source: Solar Glare Hazard Analysis Tool (SGHAT) Presentation (2013) https://share.sandia.gov/phlux/static/references/glint-glare/SGHAT_Ho.pdf 3 Sandia National Laboratory, SGHAT Technical Manual 4 Ho, C. 2013 Relieving a Glare Problem
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dust or similar materials building up on the PV module surface, which would potentially reduce the
reflection.
Figure 3. Angle of Incidence Relative to PV Panel Surface
Figure 4. Angles of Incidence and Increased Levels of Reflected Light (Glass (n‐1.5))
The sun changes its east‐west orientation throughout the day, and the sun’s north‐south position in
the sky changes throughout the year. The sun reaches its highest position at noon on the Summer
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Solstice (21 December in the Southern Hemisphere) and its lowest position at sunrise and sunset on
the Winter Solstice (21 June in the Southern Hemisphere).
In a fixed PV solar array, the angle of incidence varies as the sun moves across the sky, that is the
angle of incidence are at their lowest around noon where the sun is directly overhead, and increase
in the early mornings and late evenings as the incidence angles increase.
2.5. View shed Analysis
The Digital Terrain Model (DTM) used in this study is based on a contour interval of 10 metres. The
location of sensitive receptors (dwellings, roads, etc.) are located relative to the location of the solar
farm and view lines between the two assessed taken into consideration intervening topography.
The desktop viewshed analysis included a review of potential screening provided by existing
vegetation based on aerial photography, a site assessment was not undertaken as part of the study.
The viewshed analysis is used in conjunction with solar hazard assessment software to assess the
potential for solar glare hazard.
2.6. Solar Glare Hazard Analysis
This assessment has utilised the Solar Glare Hazard Analysis Tool (SGHAT 3.0) co‐developed by Sandi
National Laboratory5 and ForgeSolar (Sim Industries) to assess potential glare utilising latitude and
longitudinal coordinates, elevation, sun position, and vector calculations. The PV module
orientation, reflectance environment and ocular factors are also considered by the software. If
potential glare is identified by the model, the software calculates the retinal irradiance and
subtended angle (size/distance) of the glare source to predict potential ocular hazards according to
the glare intensity categories (refer Section 3.2).
The sun position algorithm used by SGHAT calculates the sun position in two forms: first as a unit
vector extending from the Cartesian origin toward the sun, and second as azimuthal and altitudinal
angles. The algorithm enables determination of the sun position at one (1) minute intervals
throughout the year.
The SGHAT is a high level tool and does not take into consideration the following factors:
The effect of shading in relation to the PV arrays
Gaps between PV modules
Atmospheric conditions
Vegetation between the solar panels and the viewer (sensitive receptor)
SGHAT has been used extensively in the United States to assess the potential impact of solar arrays
located in close proximity to airports. The US Federal Aviation Administration requires the use of
SGHAT to demonstrated compliance with the safety requirements for all proposed solar energy
systems located at federally obligated airports. Used in conjunction with a viewshed analysis, the
two tools represent a conservative assessment.
5 https://share.sandia.gov/phlux/static/references/glint‐glare/SGHAT_Technical_Reference‐v5.pdf
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2.7. Risk Assessment Approach
Once the potential for glare has been identified through the viewshed analysis and SGHAT, the
potential magnitude of the glare hazard is considered relative to background conditions. A risk
assessment approach is then used to identify the potential significance of the risk based on the
magnitude of the glare hazard generated, distance from the Project, existing vegetation, and the
sensitivity of the receptors (viewers).
3. EXISTING CONDITIONS
The baseline is a statement of the characteristics which currently exist in the Project area. The
baseline glare condition assessment takes into consideration the following:
Characteristics of the environment that may affect the potential for glare;
Land use and human modifications to the landscape such as roads, buildings and existing
infrastructure which may influence glare and sensitivity to glare.
3.1. Baseline Conditions
The baseline condition within the vicinity of the Project site is characterised by a rural landscape
predominantly used for broad acre grazing. The landform is a flat to slightly undulating with low hills
and ridges to the south. The sloping hills are interspersed with minor creeklines which generally flow
west to join the Brisbane River. The majority of remnant vegetation has been cleared as a result of
past agricultural practices, some areas of native vegetation remain on elevated ground and along
road corridors.
Existing dwellings in the area include rural and residential properties around Harlin, and scattered
farming homesteads.
Harlin State School is located approximately 1.5km to the west of the Project site.
Constructed elements within the landscape include industrial buildings (around Harlin), rural
buildings, residential dwellings, and infrastructure (highway, roads, and transmission lines).
There are no significant existing features in the landscape with the potential to contribute to glare.
3.2. Atmospheric Conditions
Atmospheric conditions such as cloud cover, dust and haze will impact light reflection, however
these factors have not been accounted for in this glare assessment. The Bureau of Meteorology
statistics for Somerset Dam 25 km from the Project site (the closest BOM records for cloud cover
statistics) recorded 53.3 cloudy days per year (mean number over the period 1957 to 1970)6. Cloudy
days predominately occur during the summer months, December to March. Since atmospheric
conditions have not been factored into this assessment modelling, statistically the glare potential
represents a conservative assessment.
6 http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/averages/tables/cw_040189_All.shtml
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4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The general layout of the solar farm is as shown in Figure 5. The main elements of the Solar Farm
with the potential to influence glare are the tilt, orientation, and optical properties of the PV
modules in the solar array. Whilst specific products are yet to be determined for the Project, the
general technical properties of the main elements influencing glare are described below.
4.1. PV modules
Each PV panel comprises of approximately 72 polycrystalline silicon solar cells overlayed by a 3.2 to
4.0 mm tempered glass front. The PV panels are held in an anodised aluminium alloy frame,
alternatively they can be dual‐glass and frameless. The approximate dimensions for a typical solar
array are 7 metres x 2 metres, being made up of approximately 7 individual solar panels of
approximately 2 metres x 1 metre. Another alternative array arrangement is 9 solar panels
approximately 2.7 metres x 0.9 metres in size with an array size of 8.1 metres x 2.7 metres.
4.2. Fixed tilt system
This study assessed the potential glare impacts of a fixed tilt system in which the PV panels are
supported by a frame at a fixed angle. The zenith tilt angle of the panels was set at 30 degrees, that
is, the panels are tilted to the north at 30 degrees where 0 degrees is parallel to the ground. The
panels were assumed to face true north. The maximum height of the PV modules above natural
ground is anticipated to be 3.2 metres, a height of 3.5 metres was used in the model to allow for
any slight variation.
Photo 1. Example of a typical fixed tilt system
DAGUILAR
HIGHWAY
GREGORS CREEK ROAD
RU
CKE
RS
LAN
E
ROAD
SPR
ING
CR
EEK
RO
AD
HOLLAND ROAD
KAN
GAR
OO
CR
EEK
RO
AD
RICHTER ROADPOHLMANS RANGE
ROADSINNAM
ONSLANE
Sunshine Energy – KilcoySite Plan and Revegetation Areas
0 10.5km
29/03/2018
1:30,000
This product is for informational purposes and may not have beenprepared for, or be suitable for legal, engineering, or surveyingpurposes. The map layers displayed are compiled from varioussources. Therefore, no warranty is given relation to thedata displayed on this map (including accuracy, reliability,completeness, currency or suitability) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for any loss, damage or costs(including consequential damage) relating to any use of the data.
Disclaimer
GDA 94 Zone 56
Data Source: QGIS 2017 & SRC 2016i
Note: this map contains some digitised layers. These layers are an approximate representation only. Refer to Somert Planning Scheme for original layers.
Potential Developable Areas -Solar Panel Area
Building areas
Koala solar panels
Powerlink substation
Staff parking and amenities
Sunshine Energy substation andbattery storage
Proposed access road
Site Boundary
Cadastre
Regulated vegetation
Remnant vegetation
Potential waterway revegetationwithin regional corridor
Potential koala bushland habitat
Substation
Substation andbattery storage
Staff parking and amenities
Koala solarpanels
Access point
ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOSABN: 65 054 076 046TEL: +61 (0) 419 407 882
Email: [email protected] TO ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOS: Limited and Exclusive License for use is granted to the Client for the purpose detailed in the Terms of Engagement. DISCLAIMER: This document is based on information provided by or on behalf of the Client, no responsibility is taken for the accuracy or completeness of base information provided by Others except where expressly verified by Environmental Ethos.
CLIENTPROJECTSUNSHINE ENERGY SOLAR FARM, KILCOY
SUNSHINE ENERGY AUSTRALIA PTY LTD
DRAWING NAME
DRAWING NUMBER
18001-FIGUREISSUE
ISSUE DESCRIPTION DATE
NORTHAPPROVED BYS CRAWFORD
DATE OF FIRST ISSUE
06/04/2018
LAYOUT PLAN
DOCUMENT SOURCE: ETHOS URBAN AND MAP DATAISSUE: 29/03/2018
5 B
DRAFTFINAL
AB
06/04/1809/04/18
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ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOS
4.3. Solar Inverters, Control Room, and Storage Buildings
The proposed solar farm also includes solar inverters, control/switch building, storage buildings,
battery storage, and perimeter fencing. These elements are not considered likely to influence glare
as they generally comprise of non‐reflective surfaces typically found in the built environment.
5. DESKTOP GLARE ASSESSMENT
The aim of the desktop glare assessment is to identify if any sensitive receptors have the potential
to be impacted by glare. The software modelling systems used in the desktop assessment include
viewshed modelling to identify the location of sensitive receptors with line of sight to the solar farm,
and the SGHAT to identify the potential and ocular significance of glare.
5.1. Viewshed Analysis
The results of the viewshed analysis are shown in Figure 6.
Contour information (contours at 10 m intervals) was assessed and shows the Project site is located
in a shallow valley between Kilcoy and the Brisbane River. Low hills to the north, east and south
provide topographic screening from these directions.
Solar Farms are characterised by their low horizontal profile. The major elements of a solar farm are
the PV models, these are generally 3 to 4 metres above ground level. In this study a height of 3.5
metres above ground level was used in the modelling. At distances greater than 1 km a 3 metre high
horizontal object in the landscape becomes visually insignificant (perceived as a narrow line in the
distance) when viewed across a flat plain. Since the topography to the north and west of the Project
site is relatively flat, the Project has the potential of being visible within 1 km of the Project site,
visually insignificant at distances greater than 1 km, and barely visible at 2 km from the Project site.
28 Observations Points were assessed within the viewshed, refer Figure 6, these points are located
at residential and rural dwellings, the School, and local businesses. One dwelling (OP27) is located
within the Project site and whilst this location was assessed the sensitivity of the receptor may be
reduced if the occupants are stakeholders in the Project.
The closest dwellings to the proposed development are located to the west of the Project site.
Potential glare impact was assessed for each dwelling within the viewshed. Potential glare impacts
were also assessed from the D’Aguilar Highway and Brisbane Valley Highway, and other minor roads
within the viewshed.
The potential glare hazard impact for identified rural and residential dwellings, school, highways,
and surrounding roads, has been assessed in Section 5.2.
5.2. Solar Glare Hazard Analysis
The parameters used in the SGHAT model are detailed in Table 1.
ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOSABN: 65 054 076 046TEL: +61 (0) 419 407 882
Email: [email protected] TO ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOS: Limited and Exclusive License for use is granted to the Client for the purpose detailed in the Terms of Engagement. DISCLAIMER: This document is based on information provided by or on behalf of the Client, no responsibility is taken for the accuracy or completeness of base information provided by Others except where expressly verified by Environmental Ethos.
CLIENTPROJECTSUNSHINE ENERGY SOLAR FARM, KILCOY
SUNSHINE ENERGY AUSTRALIA PTY LTD
DRAWING NAME
DRAWING NUMBER
18001-FIGUREISSUE
ISSUE DESCRIPTION DATE
NORTHAPPROVED BYS CRAWFORD
DATE OF FIRST ISSUE
06/04/2018
VIEWSHED & OBSERVATION POINTS
LEGENDContours (10m intervals)
Observation Points
Solar Panel Areas
Viewshed limits - areas screened by topography
0 0.5km 1km 2km
6 B
DRAFTFINAL
AB
06/04/1809/04/18
D’AGUILAR HWY
HOLLAND RD
FOGGS RD
BRIS
BANE
VALL
EY H
WY
TURTLE CREEK RD
KANG
AROO
CRE
EK R
D
SOLAR FARM
2km from Solar Farm
1.5km from Solar Farm
1km from Solar Farm
500m from Solar Farm
OP01
OP27
OP28OP02
OP03
OP04
OP05
OP06 OP07
OP09
OP10
OP11
OP12
OP13
OP14
OP15
OP16OP17
OP19OP20OP22
OP21OP23
OP24OP25
OP18
OP26
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Table 1. Input data for SGHAT Analysis
SGHAT Model Parameters Values
Time Zone UTC +10
Axis Tracking Fixed (no rotation)
Tilt of tracking axis 30 degrees
Orientation 0
Panel material Smooth glass without anti‐reflective coating (ARC)
Vary reflectivity with sun position? Yes
Correlate slope error with surface type? Yes
Slope error 6.55mrad
Height of panels above ground 3.5 m
The assessment outcomes for the SGHAT are summarised in Table 2, detailed reports are provided in
Appendices A, B and C:
Table 2. SGHAT Assessment Results.
Sensitive Receptor Glare Potential
Observation Point 01 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 02 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 03 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 04 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 05 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 06 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 07 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 08 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 09 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 10 Rural Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 11 Rural Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 12 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Observation Point 13 Residential Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 14 Residential Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 15 Residential Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 16 Residential Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 17 Hotel No Glare
Observation Point 18 School No Glare
Observation Point 19 Roadhouse No Glare
Observation Point 20 Residential Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 21 Residential Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 22 Residential Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 23 Residential Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 24 Residential Dwelling No Glare
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Observation Point 25 Residential Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 26 Rural Dwelling No Glare
Observation Point 27 Rural Dwelling on Project site Glare Potential
Observation Point 28 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential
Travel Path – D’Aguilar Highway Glare Potential
Travel Path – Brisbane Valley Highway Glare Potential
Travel Path – Holland Road Glare Potential
Travel Path – Kangaroo Creek Road Glare Potential
Travel Path – Turtle Creek Road No Glare
Travel Path – Foggs Road No Glare
Travel Path – Gaults Road Glare Potential
6. POTENTIAL IMPACTS
6.1. Solar Glare Hazard Analysis Tool (SGHAT) Results
The SGHAT modelling found there is the potential for glare hazard to occur as a result of the
Project. SGHAT modelling identified potentially affected rural dwellings and travel paths located to
the north, east, and west of the Project. The glare hazard potential generally occurs in the early
morning (when viewed from locations to the west) and late afternoon (when viewed from
locations to the east) during summer months, refer Appendix A, B and C. SGHAT modelling is based
on topography and does not take into consideration existing vegetation. An assessment of glare
hazard risk taking into consideration mitigation factors, such as existing vegetation and distance
from the site, is outlined in Table 3.
Table 3. Glare potential risk assessment for fixed tilt system
Sensitive Receptor Glare Potential (based
on topography) Mitigation factors Distance Risk
OP01 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation may provide partial screening
1.7km Low
OP02 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation around dwelling
2.5km Negligible
OP03 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation may provide partial screening
620m Moderate
OP04 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation may provide partial screening
1.1km Low
OP05 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation may provide partial screening
2.5km Negligible
OP06 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation around dwelling
2.8km Negligible
OP07 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation around dwelling
2.7km Negligible
OP08 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Sheds surrounding dwelling 2.7km Negligible
OP09 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation may provide partial screening
1km Low
OP10 Rural Dwelling No Glare N/A N/A None
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OP11 Rural Dwelling No Glare N/A N/A None
OP12 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation around dwelling
1.9km Negligible
OP13 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP14 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP15 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP16 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP17 Hotel No Glare N/A N/A None
OP18 School No Glare N/A N/A None
OP19 Roadhouse No Glare N/A N/A None
OP20 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP21 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP22 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP23 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP24 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP25 Residential Dwelling
No Glare N/A N/A None
OP26 Rural Dwelling No Glare N/A N/A None
OP27 Rural Dwelling on Project site
Glare Potential (Yellow) No vegetation 190m High*
OP28 Rural Dwelling Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation screen 1.75km Negligible
Travel Path – D’Aguilar Highway
Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation may provide partial screening
500m High
Travel Path – Brisbane Valley Highway
Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation and minor variations in topography may provide partial screening
1.3km Low
Travel Path – Holland Road
Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation may provide partial screening
160m High
Travel Path – Kangaroo Creek Road
Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation screen 650m Negligible
Travel Path – Turtle Creek Road
No Glare N/A N/A None
Travel Path – Foggs Road
No Glare N/A N/A None
Travel Path – Gaults Road
Glare Potential (Yellow) Existing vegetation screen 2.6km Negligible
Yellow = Glare with potential to cause temporary after‐image
*Dwelling is within the Project site
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7. MANAGEMENT AND MITIGATION MEASURES
The D’Aguilar Highway located along the Project site’s northern boundary is currently not fully
screened by existing vegetation and glare hazard potential was identified along this travel path.
The proposed solar farm is set back from the highway approximately 500 metres and this provides
an opportunity for the establishment of an additional screen planting to mitigate the potential for
glare hazard affecting travellers. A landscape screen along the Project site’s northern boundary
should be of sufficient density to screen potential glare, a minimum height and width of 10 metres
containing dense shrubs and tree planting is likely to provide the required screening. The
landscape screen is only required along sections of the highway with line of sight to the solar farm.
A landscape plan detailing the location of existing screening (embankments and existing
vegetation) and the proposed location of new screen planting, is recommended.
Holland Road and a dwelling off Holland Road (OP03) is currently not fully screened by existing
vegetation and glare hazard potential was also identified along this travel path. Whilst there is
some screening along the road verge, additional screen planting will mitigate potential glare
impacts to travellers. The proposed vegetation planting should be of sufficient density to screen
potential glare, a minimum height and width of 5 metres containing dense shrubs and tree
planting, is likely to provide the screening required. Screen planting along the road corridor will
also mitigate potential glare impacts on the adjoining dwelling (OP03).
The existing dwelling to the west of the proposed solar farm and within the Project site (OP27) was
identified as having the potential to be impacted by glare. There is currently no existing vegetation
screen between the dwelling and the solar farm. Landscape screen planting should be established
to provide mitigation to this dwelling if it is intended to continue as a place of residency after
development of the Project.
Mitigation recommendations include:
Landscape screen planting between the Project site and the D’Aguilar Highway and Holland
Road should be established prior to the operation of the Project to avoid impacts during the
establishment period.
Screen planting should be a combination of shrubs and trees of sufficient density to mitigate
glare.
The landscape screen should be located in the ‘gaps’ between existing visual screening
provided by embankments and existing vegetation.
Vegetation management and maintenance will be require for the life of the Project to
ensure potential glare impacts are avoided.
8. SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This assessment took into consideration the operation of the Solar Farm during daylight hours
throughout the year (SGHAT modelling calculates the potential for glare at 1 minute intervals).
SGHAT testing was undertaken for assumed sun energy intensity of 2000 W/m2, which is 2x the US
Federal Aviation Administration modelling requirement standards.
In summary, based on the assumptions and parameters of this desktop assessment, the following
results were identified:
REF NO. 18001 SUNSHINE ENERGY SOLAR FARM
GLARE ASSESSMENT
PAGE 13
ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOS
The SGHAT modelling identified glare hazard potential for 12 rural and residential dwellings
within the viewshed. Assessment of mitigating factors that may reduce the likelihood of
potential glare impacting these residencies identified the following:
o 7 residential dwellings (OP2, OP5, OP6, OP7, OP8, OP12, and OP28) are considered
likely to have negligible risk of glare impact due to distance from the solar farm
(being greater than 1.5km) and the screening effect of existing vegetation.
o 3 residential dwellings (OP1, OP4, and OP9,) are considered likely to have a low risk
of glare risk due to distance from the solar farm (being greater than 1km) and the
partial screening effect of existing vegetation.
o 1 residential dwelling (OP3) is considered likely to have a moderate risk of glare due
to distance from the solar farm (being less than 1km) and the partial screening
effect of existing vegetation. Additional screen planting along the Holland Road
corridor is recommended to mitigate this glare potential.
o 1 residential dwelling (OP27) is located within the Project site and is considered
likely to have a high risk of glare as there is no vegetation between the dwelling and
the solar panels and the dwelling is located in close proximity to the solar panel
area. Additional screen planting around this residency is recommended to mitigate
this glare potential should the intent be to continue occupancy of the building after
development of the Project.
The SGHAT modelling identified glare hazard potential along the D’Aguilar Highway. Glare
may impact travellers on the highway in the early morning and late afternoon during the
summer months. Some existing vegetation and embankments provide partial screening to
the Project. A landscape screen planting 10m high by 10m wide along the Project’s northern
boundary is recommended to mitigate the potential high risk of glare to the D’Aguilar
Highway.
The SGHAT modelling identified glare hazard potential along the Brisbane Valley Highway,
however existing vegetation and low undulating hills between the highway and the Project
are considered likely to substantially screen the Project. The potential glare hazard risk is
therefore considered likely to be low.
The SGHAT modelling identified glare hazard potential along Holland Road. Due to the
proximity of the Project site and limited vegetation along some sections of the road corridor,
this glare hazard risk is considered likely to be high. A landscape screen planting 5m high by
5m wide between the road and the Project is recommended to mitigate the potential high
risk of glare.
Other minor roads within the viewshed were identified as have none to negligible risk of
potential glare impacting travellers.
A landscape plan detailing the location, composition and density of screen planting is
recommended.
Landscape screen plantings should be established prior to the operation of the Project.
Vegetation screens should be managed and maintained for the life of the Project in order
to avoid the risk of glare impacting travellers along adjoining roads and highways.
REF NO. 18001 SUNSHINE ENERGY SOLAR FARM
GLARE ASSESSMENT
PAGE 14
ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOS
APPENDIX A:
SOLAR GLARE HAZARD ANALYSIS RESULTS ‐ OBSERVATION
POINTS
FORGESOLAR GLARE ANALYSIS
Project: Kilcoy Solar Farm1500 MW fixed tilt system
Site configuration: Stage 1Analysis conducted by Sian Crawford ([email protected]) at 01:22 on 05 Apr, 2018.
U.S. FAA 2013 Policy Adherence
The following table summarizes the policy adherence of the glare analysis based on the 2013 U.S. Federal Aviation AdministrationInterim Policy 78 FR 63276. This policy requires the following criteria be met for solar energy systems on airport property:
• No "yellow" glare (potential for after-image) for any flight path from threshold to 2 miles• No glare of any kind for Air Traffic Control Tower(s) ("ATCT") at cab height.• Default analysis and observer characteristics (see list below)
ForgeSolar does not represent or speak officially for the FAA and cannot approve or deny projects. Results are informational only.
COMPONENT STATUS DESCRIPTION
Analysis parameters PASS Analysis time interval and eye characteristics used are acceptableFlight path(s) N/A No flight paths analyzedATCT(s) N/A No ATCT receptors designated
Default glare analysis and observer eye characteristics are as follows:
• Analysis time interval: 1 minute• Ocular transmission coefficient: 0.5• Pupil diameter: 0.002 meters• Eye focal length: 0.017 meters• Sun subtended angle: 9.3 milliradians
FAA Policy 78 FR 63276 can be read at https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2013-24729
Vertex Latitude (°) Longitude (°) Ground elevation (m) Height above ground (m) Total elevation (m)
1 -26.965409 152.369492 96.48 3.50 99.982 -26.963190 152.369320 97.70 3.50 101.203 -26.961412 152.372775 107.78 3.50 111.284 -26.958830 152.375457 100.79 3.50 104.295 -26.958179 152.380092 102.29 3.50 105.796 -26.955425 152.386658 111.22 3.50 114.727 -26.951791 152.388246 105.03 3.50 108.538 -26.946270 152.395498 108.66 3.50 112.169 -26.944460 152.406397 120.12 3.50 123.6210 -26.942012 152.410388 127.58 3.50 131.0811 -26.940864 152.415753 121.71 3.50 125.2112 -26.937459 152.420731 132.34 3.50 135.8413 -26.941285 152.428027 129.40 3.50 132.9014 -26.945110 152.428112 138.57 3.50 142.0715 -26.944728 152.431953 165.66 3.50 169.1616 -26.941820 152.435891 134.20 3.50 137.7017 -26.938454 152.431889 140.25 3.50 143.7518 -26.937688 152.433455 152.64 3.50 156.1419 -26.938186 152.442049 141.92 3.50 145.4220 -26.936426 152.446566 143.75 3.50 147.2521 -26.937535 152.454205 159.20 3.50 162.7022 -26.940137 152.455900 172.68 3.50 176.1823 -26.946143 152.456565 246.50 3.50 250.0024 -26.946162 152.454291 226.97 3.50 230.4725 -26.942461 152.449635 161.50 3.50 165.0026 -26.944589 152.447478 169.95 3.50 173.4527 -26.946074 152.445499 212.12 3.50 215.6228 -26.945722 152.441288 151.36 3.50 154.8629 -26.947444 152.439528 178.64 3.50 182.1430 -26.950179 152.442167 195.64 3.50 199.1431 -26.954033 152.442672 190.40 3.50 193.9032 -26.956572 152.440992 189.08 3.50 192.5833 -26.955088 152.429982 171.42 3.50 174.9234 -26.952815 152.428983 156.83 3.50 160.3335 -26.954674 152.423306 188.28 3.50 191.7836 -26.952723 152.421654 218.50 3.50 222.0037 -26.947100 152.420431 147.98 3.50 151.4838 -26.948171 152.414637 150.76 3.50 154.2639 -26.953947 152.414144 215.49 3.50 218.9940 -26.956405 152.411274 257.08 3.50 260.5841 -26.956453 152.406430 145.89 3.50 149.3942 -26.959293 152.407980 143.02 3.50 146.5243 -26.965308 152.407041 212.22 3.50 215.7244 -26.964285 152.397900 203.09 3.50 206.5945 -26.965710 152.389532 207.32 3.50 210.8246 -26.964964 152.383867 129.62 3.50 133.1247 -26.966570 152.379961 243.28 3.50 246.78
Discrete Observation Receptors
Name ID Latitude (°) Longitude (°) Elevation (m) Height (m)
OP 1 1 -26.944233 152.372202 128.28 1.50OP 2 2 -26.942936 152.364262 111.92 1.50OP 3 3 -26.958008 152.366751 109.66 1.50OP 4 4 -26.954317 152.363211 126.67 1.50OP 5 5 -26.947983 152.352899 113.69 1.50OP 6 6 -26.936419 152.365243 111.87 1.50OP 7 7 -26.936859 152.367497 112.00 1.50OP 8 8 -26.938341 152.351960 120.68 1.50OP 9 9 -26.964028 152.358565 108.54 1.50OP 10 10 -26.967547 152.361215 106.61 1.50OP 11 11 -26.969629 152.366247 103.15 1.50OP 12 12 -26.964966 152.349183 119.47 1.50OP 13 13 -26.969030 152.354429 104.55 1.50OP 14 14 -26.972529 152.359649 104.80 1.50OP 15 15 -26.973102 152.361076 106.32 1.50OP 16 16 -26.973380 152.362192 104.71 1.50OP 17 17 -26.974231 152.358834 107.69 1.50OP 18 18 -26.974106 152.357289 113.11 1.50OP 19 19 -26.974682 152.359424 105.04 1.50OP 20 20 -26.975026 152.359628 103.73 1.50OP 21 21 -26.975207 152.359746 102.83 1.50OP 22 22 -26.975408 152.359907 102.98 1.50OP 23 23 -26.975552 152.360143 102.44 1.50OP 24 24 -26.975705 152.360282 102.36 1.50OP 25 25 -26.975877 152.360508 101.70 1.50OP 26 26 -26.975360 152.366440 105.30 1.50OP 27 27 -26.939394 152.458032 177.07 1.50OP 28 28 -26.932939 152.472212 201.51 1.50
GLARE ANALYSIS RESULTS
Summary of Glare
PV Array Name Tilt Orient "Green" Glare "Yellow" Glare Energy
(°) (°) min min kWhKilcoy SF 30.0 0.0 0 53,295 -
Total annual glare received by each receptor
Receptor Annual Green Glare (min) Annual Yellow Glare (min)
1 0 56152 0 47323 0 58514 0 56465 0 46326 0 46547 0 46958 0 44009 0 91710 0 011 0 012 0 40313 0 014 0 015 0 016 0 017 0 018 0 019 0 020 0 021 0 022 0 023 0 024 0 025 0 026 0 027 0 845228 0 3298
Results for: Kilcoy SF
Receptor Green Glare (min) Yellow Glare (min)
OP 1 0 5615OP 2 0 4732OP 3 0 5851OP 4 0 5646OP 5 0 4632OP 6 0 4654OP 7 0 4695OP 8 0 4400
Receptor Green Glare (min) Yellow Glare (min)
OP 9 0 917OP 10 0 0OP 11 0 0OP 12 0 403OP 13 0 0OP 14 0 0OP 15 0 0OP 16 0 0OP 17 0 0OP 18 0 0OP 19 0 0OP 20 0 0OP 21 0 0OP 22 0 0OP 23 0 0OP 24 0 0OP 25 0 0OP 26 0 0OP 27 0 8452OP 28 0 3298
Point Receptor: OP 1
5615 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 2
4732 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 3
5851 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 4
5646 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 5
4632 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 6
4654 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 7
4695 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 8
4400 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 9
917 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 10
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 11
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 12
403 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 13
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 14
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 15
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 16
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 17
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 18
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 19
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 20
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 21
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 22
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 23
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 24
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 25
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 26
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 27
8452 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 28
3298 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Assumptions
2015-2017 © Sims Industries, All Rights Reserved.
"Green" glare is glare with low potential to cause an after-image (flash blindness) when observed prior to a typical blink response time. "Yellow" glare is glare with potential to cause an after-image (flash blindness) when observed prior to a typical blink response time. Times associated with glare are denoted in Standard time. For Daylight Savings, add one hour. Glare analyses do not account for physical obstructions between reflectors and receptors. This includes buildings, tree cover andgeographic obstructions. The glare hazard determination relies on several approximations including observer eye characteristics, angle of view, and typical blinkresponse time. Actual values may differ. Hazard zone boundaries shown in the Glare Hazard plot are an approximation and visual aid based on aggregated research data. Actualocular impact outcomes encompass a continuous, not discrete, spectrum.
REF NO. 18001 SUNSHINE ENERGY SOLAR FARM
GLARE ASSESSMENT
PAGE 15
ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOS
APPENDIX B:
SOLAR GLARE HAZARD ANALYSIS RESULTS – D’AGUILAR
HIGHWAY
FORGESOLAR GLARE ANALYSIS
Project: Kilcoy Solar Farm1500 MW fixed tilt system
Site configuration: HighwayAnalysis conducted by Sian Crawford ([email protected]) at 02:12 on 05 Apr, 2018.
U.S. FAA 2013 Policy Adherence
The following table summarizes the policy adherence of the glare analysis based on the 2013 U.S. Federal Aviation AdministrationInterim Policy 78 FR 63276. This policy requires the following criteria be met for solar energy systems on airport property:
• No "yellow" glare (potential for after-image) for any flight path from threshold to 2 miles• No glare of any kind for Air Traffic Control Tower(s) ("ATCT") at cab height.• Default analysis and observer characteristics (see list below)
ForgeSolar does not represent or speak officially for the FAA and cannot approve or deny projects. Results are informational only.
COMPONENT STATUS DESCRIPTION
Analysis parameters PASS Analysis time interval and eye characteristics used are acceptableFlight path(s) N/A No flight paths analyzedATCT(s) N/A No ATCT receptors designated
Default glare analysis and observer eye characteristics are as follows:
• Analysis time interval: 1 minute• Ocular transmission coefficient: 0.5• Pupil diameter: 0.002 meters• Eye focal length: 0.017 meters• Sun subtended angle: 9.3 milliradians
FAA Policy 78 FR 63276 can be read at https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2013-24729
Vertex Latitude (°) Longitude (°) Ground elevation (m) Height above ground (m) Total elevation (m)
1 -26.965409 152.369492 96.48 3.50 99.982 -26.963190 152.369320 97.70 3.50 101.203 -26.961412 152.372775 107.78 3.50 111.284 -26.958830 152.375457 100.79 3.50 104.295 -26.958179 152.380092 102.29 3.50 105.796 -26.955425 152.386658 111.22 3.50 114.727 -26.951791 152.388246 105.03 3.50 108.538 -26.946270 152.395498 108.66 3.50 112.169 -26.944460 152.406397 120.12 3.50 123.6210 -26.942012 152.410388 127.58 3.50 131.0811 -26.940864 152.415753 121.71 3.50 125.2112 -26.937459 152.420731 132.34 3.50 135.8413 -26.941285 152.428027 129.40 3.50 132.9014 -26.945110 152.428112 138.57 3.50 142.0715 -26.944728 152.431953 165.66 3.50 169.1616 -26.941820 152.435891 134.20 3.50 137.7017 -26.938454 152.431889 140.25 3.50 143.7518 -26.937688 152.433455 152.64 3.50 156.1419 -26.938186 152.442049 141.92 3.50 145.4220 -26.936426 152.446566 143.75 3.50 147.2521 -26.937535 152.454205 159.20 3.50 162.7022 -26.940137 152.455900 172.68 3.50 176.1823 -26.946143 152.456565 246.50 3.50 250.0024 -26.946162 152.454291 226.97 3.50 230.4725 -26.942461 152.449635 161.50 3.50 165.0026 -26.944589 152.447478 169.95 3.50 173.4527 -26.946074 152.445499 212.12 3.50 215.6228 -26.945722 152.441288 151.36 3.50 154.8629 -26.947444 152.439528 178.64 3.50 182.1430 -26.950179 152.442167 195.64 3.50 199.1431 -26.954033 152.442672 190.40 3.50 193.9032 -26.956572 152.440992 189.08 3.50 192.5833 -26.955088 152.429982 171.42 3.50 174.9234 -26.952815 152.428983 156.83 3.50 160.3335 -26.954674 152.423306 188.28 3.50 191.7836 -26.952723 152.421654 218.50 3.50 222.0037 -26.947100 152.420431 147.98 3.50 151.4838 -26.948171 152.414637 150.76 3.50 154.2639 -26.953947 152.414144 215.49 3.50 218.9940 -26.956405 152.411274 257.08 3.50 260.5841 -26.956453 152.406430 145.89 3.50 149.3942 -26.959293 152.407980 143.02 3.50 146.5243 -26.965308 152.407041 212.22 3.50 215.7244 -26.964285 152.397900 203.09 3.50 206.5945 -26.965710 152.389532 207.32 3.50 210.8246 -26.964964 152.383867 129.62 3.50 133.1247 -26.966570 152.379961 243.28 3.50 246.78
Discrete Observation Receptors
Name ID Latitude (°) Longitude (°) Elevation (m) Height (m)
OP 1 1 -26.944206 152.355443 107.80 1.50OP 2 2 -26.944579 152.363436 106.80 1.50OP 3 3 -26.947582 152.371021 129.47 1.50OP 4 4 -26.948414 152.376739 117.09 1.50OP 5 5 -26.947754 152.383284 115.99 1.50OP 6 6 -26.946233 152.386299 115.04 1.50OP 7 7 -26.944206 152.389560 110.48 1.50OP 8 8 -26.942331 152.392564 121.45 1.50OP 9 9 -26.941537 152.395772 131.22 1.50OP 10 10 -26.941288 152.399881 122.67 1.50OP 11 11 -26.940380 152.403122 117.39 1.50OP 12 12 -26.939366 152.406276 117.64 1.50OP 13 13 -26.938256 152.409119 118.18 1.50OP 14 14 -26.937912 152.412112 125.50 1.50OP 15 15 -26.936171 152.414451 122.41 1.50OP 16 16 -26.934239 152.416318 124.51 1.50OP 17 17 -26.933216 152.418153 122.66 1.50OP 18 18 -26.932833 152.420781 129.61 1.50OP 19 19 -26.933617 152.423614 127.33 1.50OP 20 20 -26.934727 152.427540 134.93 1.50OP 21 21 -26.933761 152.431199 139.88 1.50OP 22 22 -26.933388 152.435061 150.84 1.50OP 23 23 -26.933426 152.439170 169.56 1.50OP 24 24 -26.932690 152.443398 182.26 1.50OP 25 25 -26.931934 152.446509 175.04 1.50OP 26 26 -26.932451 152.450114 159.43 1.50OP 27 27 -26.933149 152.453365 149.23 1.50OP 28 28 -26.933981 152.456852 151.75 1.50OP 29 29 -26.935263 152.459684 162.61 1.50OP 30 30 -26.936037 152.462838 159.65 1.50OP 31 31 -26.935517 152.465520 161.52 1.50OP 32 32 -26.934283 152.467419 164.99 1.50OP 33 33 -26.932083 152.469532 175.29 1.50OP 34 34 -26.930151 152.470916 171.76 1.50
GLARE ANALYSIS RESULTS
Summary of Glare
PV Array Name Tilt Orient "Green" Glare "Yellow" Glare Energy
(°) (°) min min kWhKilcoy SF 30.0 0.0 0 194,581 -
Total annual glare received by each receptor
Receptor Annual Green Glare (min) Annual Yellow Glare (min)
1 0 44532 0 45903 0 55874 0 58045 0 74716 0 80727 0 77378 0 72909 0 760210 0 740811 0 748812 0 774513 0 732714 0 1008515 0 829916 0 398017 0 386718 0 466119 0 543020 0 935421 0 751822 0 766623 0 875824 0 628725 0 356926 0 319127 0 293628 0 316429 0 392530 0 300031 0 261032 0 262633 0 262534 0 2456
Results for: Kilcoy SF
Receptor Green Glare (min) Yellow Glare (min)
OP 1 0 4453
Receptor Green Glare (min) Yellow Glare (min)
OP 2 0 4590OP 3 0 5587OP 4 0 5804OP 5 0 7471OP 6 0 8072OP 7 0 7737OP 8 0 7290OP 9 0 7602OP 10 0 7408OP 11 0 7488OP 12 0 7745OP 13 0 7327OP 14 0 10085OP 15 0 8299OP 16 0 3980OP 17 0 3867OP 18 0 4661OP 19 0 5430OP 20 0 9354OP 21 0 7518OP 22 0 7666OP 23 0 8758OP 24 0 6287OP 25 0 3569OP 26 0 3191OP 27 0 2936OP 28 0 3164OP 29 0 3925OP 30 0 3000OP 31 0 2610OP 32 0 2626OP 33 0 2625OP 34 0 2456
Point Receptor: OP 1
4453 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 2
4590 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 3
5587 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 4
5804 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 5
7471 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 6
8072 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 7
7737 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 8
7290 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 9
7602 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 10
7408 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 11
7488 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 12
7745 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 13
7327 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 14
10085 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 15
8299 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 16
3980 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 17
3867 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 18
4661 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 19
5430 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 20
9354 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 21
7518 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 22
7666 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 23
8758 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 24
6287 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 25
3569 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 26
3191 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 27
2936 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 28
3164 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 29
3925 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 30
3000 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 31
2610 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 32
2626 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 33
2625 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 34
2456 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Assumptions
2015-2017 © Sims Industries, All Rights Reserved.
"Green" glare is glare with low potential to cause an after-image (flash blindness) when observed prior to a typical blink response time. "Yellow" glare is glare with potential to cause an after-image (flash blindness) when observed prior to a typical blink response time. Times associated with glare are denoted in Standard time. For Daylight Savings, add one hour. Glare analyses do not account for physical obstructions between reflectors and receptors. This includes buildings, tree cover andgeographic obstructions. The glare hazard determination relies on several approximations including observer eye characteristics, angle of view, and typical blinkresponse time. Actual values may differ. Hazard zone boundaries shown in the Glare Hazard plot are an approximation and visual aid based on aggregated research data. Actualocular impact outcomes encompass a continuous, not discrete, spectrum.
REF NO. 18001 SUNSHINE ENERGY SOLAR FARM
GLARE ASSESSMENT
PAGE 16
ENVIRONMENTAL ETHOS
APPENDIX C:
SOLAR GLARE HAZARD ANALYSIS – BRISBANE VALLEY
HIGHWAY AND MINOR ROADS
FORGESOLAR GLARE ANALYSIS
Project: Kilcoy Solar Farm1500 MW fixed tilt system
Site configuration: RoadsAnalysis conducted by Sian Crawford ([email protected]) at 04:22 on 05 Apr, 2018.
U.S. FAA 2013 Policy Adherence
The following table summarizes the policy adherence of the glare analysis based on the 2013 U.S. Federal Aviation AdministrationInterim Policy 78 FR 63276. This policy requires the following criteria be met for solar energy systems on airport property:
• No "yellow" glare (potential for after-image) for any flight path from threshold to 2 miles• No glare of any kind for Air Traffic Control Tower(s) ("ATCT") at cab height.• Default analysis and observer characteristics (see list below)
ForgeSolar does not represent or speak officially for the FAA and cannot approve or deny projects. Results are informational only.
COMPONENT STATUS DESCRIPTION
Analysis parameters PASS Analysis time interval and eye characteristics used are acceptableFlight path(s) N/A No flight paths analyzedATCT(s) N/A No ATCT receptors designated
Default glare analysis and observer eye characteristics are as follows:
• Analysis time interval: 1 minute• Ocular transmission coefficient: 0.5• Pupil diameter: 0.002 meters• Eye focal length: 0.017 meters• Sun subtended angle: 9.3 milliradians
FAA Policy 78 FR 63276 can be read at https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2013-24729
Vertex Latitude (°) Longitude (°) Ground elevation (m) Height above ground (m) Total elevation (m)
1 -26.965409 152.369492 96.48 3.50 99.982 -26.963190 152.369320 97.70 3.50 101.203 -26.961412 152.372775 107.78 3.50 111.284 -26.958830 152.375457 100.79 3.50 104.295 -26.958179 152.380092 102.29 3.50 105.796 -26.955425 152.386658 111.22 3.50 114.727 -26.951791 152.388246 105.03 3.50 108.538 -26.946270 152.395498 108.66 3.50 112.169 -26.944460 152.406397 120.12 3.50 123.6210 -26.942012 152.410388 127.58 3.50 131.0811 -26.940864 152.415753 121.71 3.50 125.2112 -26.937459 152.420731 132.34 3.50 135.8413 -26.941285 152.428027 129.40 3.50 132.9014 -26.945110 152.428112 138.57 3.50 142.0715 -26.944728 152.431953 165.66 3.50 169.1616 -26.941820 152.435891 134.20 3.50 137.7017 -26.938454 152.431889 140.25 3.50 143.7518 -26.937688 152.433455 152.64 3.50 156.1419 -26.938186 152.442049 141.92 3.50 145.4220 -26.936426 152.446566 143.75 3.50 147.2521 -26.937535 152.454205 159.20 3.50 162.7022 -26.940137 152.455900 172.68 3.50 176.1823 -26.946143 152.456565 246.50 3.50 250.0024 -26.946162 152.454291 226.97 3.50 230.4725 -26.942461 152.449635 161.50 3.50 165.0026 -26.944589 152.447478 169.95 3.50 173.4527 -26.946074 152.445499 212.12 3.50 215.6228 -26.945722 152.441288 151.36 3.50 154.8629 -26.947444 152.439528 178.64 3.50 182.1430 -26.950179 152.442167 195.64 3.50 199.1431 -26.954033 152.442672 190.40 3.50 193.9032 -26.956572 152.440992 189.08 3.50 192.5833 -26.955088 152.429982 171.42 3.50 174.9234 -26.952815 152.428983 156.83 3.50 160.3335 -26.954674 152.423306 188.28 3.50 191.7836 -26.952723 152.421654 218.50 3.50 222.0037 -26.947100 152.420431 147.98 3.50 151.4838 -26.948171 152.414637 150.76 3.50 154.2639 -26.953947 152.414144 215.49 3.50 218.9940 -26.956405 152.411274 257.08 3.50 260.5841 -26.956453 152.406430 145.89 3.50 149.3942 -26.959293 152.407980 143.02 3.50 146.5243 -26.965308 152.407041 212.22 3.50 215.7244 -26.964285 152.397900 203.09 3.50 206.5945 -26.965710 152.389532 207.32 3.50 210.8246 -26.964964 152.383867 129.62 3.50 133.1247 -26.966570 152.379961 243.28 3.50 246.78
Discrete Observation Receptors
Name ID Latitude (°) Longitude (°) Elevation (m) Height (m)
OP 1 1 -26.946747 152.356350 105.00 1.50OP 2 2 -26.949559 152.357283 105.17 1.50OP 3 3 -26.951835 152.357283 104.80 1.50OP 4 4 -26.954912 152.356457 104.04 1.50OP 5 5 -26.960143 152.355213 100.93 1.50OP 6 6 -26.964953 152.354108 100.62 1.50OP 7 7 -26.969438 152.353485 107.42 1.50OP 8 8 -26.971867 152.354987 121.04 1.50OP 9 9 -26.978483 152.361360 101.84 1.50OP 10 10 -26.982824 152.359794 103.60 1.50OP 11 11 -26.948589 152.383386 115.00 1.50OP 12 12 -26.950856 152.382903 113.09 1.50OP 13 13 -26.953199 152.381487 103.59 1.50OP 14 14 -26.955456 152.379481 106.43 1.50OP 15 15 -26.956537 152.374577 100.34 1.50OP 16 16 -26.957541 152.370243 100.48 1.50OP 17 17 -26.958554 152.365812 110.25 1.50OP 18 18 -26.959300 152.362776 111.05 1.50OP 19 19 -26.959998 152.359935 110.22 1.50OP 20 20 -26.945503 152.383549 117.17 1.50OP 21 21 -26.940855 152.384343 124.87 1.50OP 22 22 -26.936857 152.385008 135.20 1.50OP 23 23 -26.933222 152.385631 131.63 1.50OP 24 24 -26.968069 152.351191 101.60 1.50OP 25 25 -26.967534 152.346556 124.46 1.50OP 26 26 -26.969389 152.343080 111.22 1.50OP 27 27 -26.972114 152.340312 109.27 1.50OP 28 28 -26.973424 152.335420 102.72 1.50OP 29 29 -26.975375 152.354195 101.69 1.50OP 30 30 -26.976522 152.352049 103.43 1.50OP 31 31 -26.979811 152.350247 118.32 1.50OP 32 32 -26.943450 152.353118 106.92 1.50OP 33 33 -26.941154 152.350136 112.84 1.50OP 34 34 -26.938801 152.346735 119.93 1.50
GLARE ANALYSIS RESULTS
Summary of Glare
PV Array Name Tilt Orient "Green" Glare "Yellow" Glare Energy
(°) (°) min min kWhKilcoy SF 30.0 0.0 0 113,373 -
Total annual glare received by each receptor
Receptor Annual Green Glare (min) Annual Yellow Glare (min)
1 0 44412 0 44943 0 45424 0 45335 0 24066 0 3297 0 08 0 09 0 010 0 011 0 776312 0 788513 0 589414 0 661815 0 560616 0 581217 0 581518 0 553919 0 499120 0 692021 0 611822 0 550423 0 478324 0 025 0 626 0 027 0 028 0 029 0 030 0 031 0 032 0 442033 0 445634 0 4498
Results for: Kilcoy SF
Receptor Green Glare (min) Yellow Glare (min)
OP 1 0 4441
Receptor Green Glare (min) Yellow Glare (min)
OP 2 0 4494OP 3 0 4542OP 4 0 4533OP 5 0 2406OP 6 0 329OP 7 0 0OP 8 0 0OP 9 0 0OP 10 0 0OP 11 0 7763OP 12 0 7885OP 13 0 5894OP 14 0 6618OP 15 0 5606OP 16 0 5812OP 17 0 5815OP 18 0 5539OP 19 0 4991OP 20 0 6920OP 21 0 6118OP 22 0 5504OP 23 0 4783OP 24 0 0OP 25 0 6OP 26 0 0OP 27 0 0OP 28 0 0OP 29 0 0OP 30 0 0OP 31 0 0OP 32 0 4420OP 33 0 4456OP 34 0 4498
Point Receptor: OP 1
4441 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 2
4494 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 3
4542 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 4
4533 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 5
2406 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 6
329 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 7
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 8
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 9
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 10
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 11
7763 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 12
7885 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 13
5894 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 14
6618 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 15
5606 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 16
5812 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 17
5815 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 18
5539 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 19
4991 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 20
6920 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 21
6118 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 22
5504 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 23
4783 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 24
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 25
6 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 26
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 27
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 28
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 29
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 30
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 31
0 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 32
4420 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 33
4456 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Point Receptor: OP 34
4498 minutes of yellow glare 0 minutes of green glare
Assumptions
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"Green" glare is glare with low potential to cause an after-image (flash blindness) when observed prior to a typical blink response time. "Yellow" glare is glare with potential to cause an after-image (flash blindness) when observed prior to a typical blink response time. Times associated with glare are denoted in Standard time. For Daylight Savings, add one hour. Glare analyses do not account for physical obstructions between reflectors and receptors. This includes buildings, tree cover andgeographic obstructions. The glare hazard determination relies on several approximations including observer eye characteristics, angle of view, and typical blinkresponse time. Actual values may differ. Hazard zone boundaries shown in the Glare Hazard plot are an approximation and visual aid based on aggregated research data. Actualocular impact outcomes encompass a continuous, not discrete, spectrum.