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TOWNOFAMHERST
REQUESTFORPROPOSALSFOR
OLDLANDFILLREUSEPROPOSAL
Presentedby:
Inpartnershipwith:
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6.2.Indemnification...........................................................................................................................416.3.RegulatoryandLegislativeRisk...................................................................................................416.4.ExcessPowerGenerationRisk ....................................................................................................41
7.TeamQualifications .......................................................................................................... 417.1.BlueWaveCapital........................................................................................................................41
7.2.BoschSolarEnergyAG................................................................................................................427.3.Tighe&Bond ..............................................................................................................................437.4.TRCSolutions ..............................................................................................................................437.5.SmartEnergyCapital,LLC ...........................................................................................................43
8.PersonnelQualifications ................................................................................................... 448.1.BlueWaveCapital........................................................................................................................448.2.BoschSolarEnergyAG................................................................................................................458.3.Tighe&Bond ..............................................................................................................................468.4.TRCSolutions ..............................................................................................................................488.5.SmartEnergyCapital,LLC ...........................................................................................................49
9.PerformanceRecordofProponent.................................................................................... 509.1.BlueWaveCapital........................................................................................................................509.2.BoschSolarEnergyAG................................................................................................................539.3.Tighe&Bond ..............................................................................................................................549.4.TRCSolutions ..............................................................................................................................559.5.SmartEnergyCapital,LLC ...........................................................................................................57
LISTOFAPPENDICES
APPENDIXA DETAILEDSITEPLAN,LAYOUT&CONFIGURATION
APPENDIXB EQUIPMENTSPECIFICATIONS
APPENDIXC MADEPPOST-CLOSUREAPPLICATION
APPENDIXD MADEPFAST-TRACKPERMITTINGPROCESS
APPENDIXE MADEPPRESENTATIONS&FACTSHEETS
APPENDIXF CONSTRUCTIONSCHEDULE
APPENDIXG WMECOINTERCONNECTIONAPPLICATION
APPENDIXH WMECONETMETERINGRULES
APPENDIXI WMECOTARIFF
APPENDIXJ DETAILEDPRODUCTIONSCHEDULE
APPENDIXK BOSCHSOLARENERGYAGQUALIFICATIONS
APPENDIXL TIGHE&BONDQUALIFICATIONS
APPENDIXM TRCSOLUTIONSQUALIFICATIONS
APPENDIXN SMARTENERGYCAPITALQUALIFICATIONS
APPENDIXO SMARTENERGYCAPITALLETTEROFINTEREST
APPENDIXP MARENEWABLEPORTFOLIOSTANDARD
APPENDIXQ MADEPGREENFIELDLANDFILLAPPROVAL
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APPENDIXR SIGNEDDISCLOSUREOFBENEFICIALINTERESTS,NON-COLLUSION,AND
TAXCOMPLIANCECERTIFICATE
APPENDIXS SIGNEDADDENDUMACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
LISTOFTABLES
Table1: ProjectConstructionScheduleTable2: MACRSDepreciationSchedule
LISTOFFIGURES
Figure1: OldAmherstLandfillSectionLayout
Figure2: LayoutofOldAmherstPVSystem
Figure3: OneLineElectricalDiagram
Figure4: DistributionofAvailableSolarResource
Figure5: AverageSolarResourceDailyTimeSeries
Figure6: ExpectedProductionatOldAmherstLandfill
Figure7: BlueWaveTeamOrganizationChart
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LETTEROFTRANSMITTAL
December20,2010
OfficeoftheSuperintendent
DepartmentofPublicWorks586SouthPleasantStreet
Amherst,MA01002
RE: LetterofTransmittaltoTownofAmherst
RFPfortheOldLandfillReuseProposal
DearTownofAmherst,
BlueWave Capital, LLC (BlueWave) is pleased to submit this proposal in response to the Town of
AmherstsRequestforProposalsfortheDevelopmentofaSolarEnergyProject.
WebelievethisproposalmeetsalltermsandconditionsoftheRFP.InmakingthisproposalBlueWaveis
pleased to have the support and financial backing of leading solar energy project finance andconstruction companies with hard-earned, well-deserved reputations for integrity and excellence in
deliveringandfinancingsolarenergyprojectsinMassachusettsandacrossNorthAmericaandEurope.
BlueWaveanditspartnersproposetoinstall,own,operate,andmaintainonesolarelectricgenerating
facilitywithatotalofatleastfourpointseventy-five(4.75)MWwithintheOldLandfillacrosstheroad
fromthetransferstationat740BelchertownRoadinAmherst.TheBlueWaveteamproposestoownthe
solargeneratingfacilities,provideleasepaymentstotheTownofAmherstandsellthenetmetering
creditsthe facility generates under a Power Purchase Agreement for a term of thirty (30) years. We
proposetoincludeinthePowerPurchaseAgreementanoptionfortheTowntopurchasethefacilityat
predeterminedintervals.
BlueWavesproposal willcreatesubstantialeconomicand environmentalbenefitsfor Amherstandits
residents,andhelptheTownto:
ProvidetheTownwith estimatedelectricitycostsavingsofover$25million overthelifeofthecontractgeneratedbyadedicatedsystemtotaling3.56MWoutofatotal4.75MWofinstalled
capacityonthelandfill;
ProvidetheAmherstRegionalPublicSchoolsorotherlocalentitywithanadditionalestimatedelectricitycostsavingsofover$7million overthelifeofthecontractgeneratedbyasystem
totaling1.2MWoutofatotalof4.75MWofinstalledcapacityonthelandfill;
ProvidetheTownwithvirtuallyallofitstotalelectricityconsumption fromaclean,renewablesolarphotovoltaicsystemthatwillnotinterferewiththeOldLandfillscompliancerequirements ;
ProvidetheTownlandfillwithyearlymaintenancemowing andminorsettlementadjustments; ProvidetheTownwithpropertytaxpaymentsofpaymentsstartingat$350,000duringthefirstyear
ofoperationsforthephotovoltaicsystemontheOldLandfillwiththosepaymentsadjustedona
yearlybasisbasedonfairmarketvalueassessmentsandwillprovideover$5millioninProperty
Taxesoverthelifeofthesystem ;
Eliminatetheriskassociatedwithvolatileandunpredictablefutureenergyprices; ProvidejobsandeconomicopportunityforAmherstbusinessesandresidents;and
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BlueWaveCapital,LLC
31MilkStreet
Boston,Massachusetts02109
Tel:(617)470.7297
Email:[email protected]
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EXECUTIVESUMMARY
BlueWave Capital LLC,in partnership with Bosch Solar Energy AG, Tighe & Bond, TRC Solutions and
SmartEnergyCapital,ispleasedtopresentthefollowingproposalforthedesign,construction,finance,
operation,andmaintenanceoftheTownofAmherstsSolarEnergyProject.
BlueWave has assembled a first-class team to use a proven methodology and United States-
manufacturedproductsfordeveloping,owningandoperatingphotovoltaicgeneratingsystems.
OurapproachallowstheTowntoexpedientlyandcost-effectivelyloweritsenergycosts,insulateitself
against volatile and unpredictable future energy costs, enhanceits property tax revenues, reduce its
carbon footprint, provide educational opportunities for Amherst students and members of the
community,andjobsandjobtrainingassistanceforAmherstworkers.
Ourproposalwill:
ReducetheTownselectricitysupplyexpensebyover30%whencomparedtoitscurrentcosts,ProvidetheTownofAmherstwithestimatedelectricitycostsavingsofover$25millionoverthe
lifeofthecontractgeneratedbyadedicatedsystemtotaling3.56MWoutofatotal4.75MW
ofinstalledcapacityonthelandfill;
ProvidetheAmherstRegionalPublicSchoolsorotherlocalentitywithestimatedelectricitycostsavingsofover$8millionoverthelifeofthecontractgeneratedbyasystemtotaling1.2MW
outofatotalof4.75MWofinstalledcapacityonthelandfill;
ProvidetheTownofAmherstwithover90%ofitstotalelectricityconsumptionfromaclean,renewablesolarphotovoltaicsystemthatwillnotinterferewiththeOldLandfillscompliance
requirements;
ProvidetheTownwithpropertytaxpaymentsofpaymentsstartingat~$350,000duringthefirstyearofoperationsforthephotovoltaicsystemontheOldLandfillandadjustedannuallyonascheduletobeagreeduponwiththeTownbasedontheFairMarketValueestimateforthe
system.Thisisexpectedtoprovideover$5millioninPropertyTaxesoverthelifeofthe
system.
ReduceAmherstscarbonfootprintbymorethan6,000tonsperyearortheequivalentofpermanentlyremoving1,200carsfromtheroad,
HelpfurtherestablishAmherstasaGreenCommunityleaderintheCommonwealth,ProvideAmherstschoolchildrenwithexpandededucationalopportunityandAmherstworkers
withgoodpaying,meaningfuljobs.
Themembers of theteam have worked closelytogether on numerous projects in thepast and each
memberoftheteambringsitsownspecializedexpertise:
SoundandExperiencedProjectFinancingCapabilityo APowerPurchaseAgreement,whichincludesbuy-outoptionsfortheTownofAmherst,
fromanexperienced,nationally-recognizedleaderinsolarPVprojectfinance.
ExperiencedDesign,Engineering,andInstallationo Ourteamhasover30yearsofphotovoltaicdesign,engineeringandinstallationexperience,
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o Ourteamhassuccessfullyinstalledmorethan40MWofsolarPVsystems,o Ourteamhasextesivelandfillpermitting,closure,andpost-closureoperationsand
managementexperienceincludingpermittingtheonlysolargeneratingfacilityonaSolid
WastelandfillintheCommonwealth,
o Ourteamunderstandstheneedsandcultureofmunicipalgovernmentsandhasspecializedexpertiseinthefinancing,design,installationandmaintenanceofsolarPVsystemsformunicipalclients.
TrueProjectManagementExperienceo TheteamincludesBoschSolarEnergyAGastheDesign,Engineer,andConstructionpartner.
Boschmaintainsin-houseprofessionalprojectmanagers,engineers,andconstructionteams
who have extensive experience in bringing multi-million dollar projects to successful
commissioninginNorthAmericaandworldwide.
LocalExpertiseo Ourteamiscommittedtoemployingotherlocalcontractorswithagoalofhaving25%oftheprojectworkforcecomprisedofAmherstresidents.Wearealsocommittedtoproviding
apprenticeshipopportunitiesandjobtrainingforTownresidents.
o WeareeagertoworkwiththeAmherstSchoolDepartmentandotherstoinsurethatwemaximizeeducationalopportunitiesfromthisprojectforAmherstschoolchildren.
o Tighe&BondandTRC,Inc.areMassachusettsbasedfirmswithalonghistoryofsuccessfullymanagingandpermittingenergy,landfillandremediationprojectsinMassachusetts.
o BlueWave has advised more than 20 Massachusetts communities on renewable energypolicy,regulation,grantfundingopportunities,procurementandoverallenergystrategyand
hasworkedclosely withlegislators andpolicymakers tohelp shape therenewableenergy
policyandregulatorylandscapeintheCommonwealth.
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1.EVALUATIONCRITERIA
1.1.Proposalprotectstheexistinglandfillcaps.Proposalsthatdonotinvolveanymodificationtotheexistinglandfillcapsshallbeconsideredhighly
advantageous.Aproposalthatrequiresmodificationofthecapwillbeconsideredadvantageousonly
ifthemodificationstothecapscanbedoneinaMassDEPapprovedmethodas partoftheproject.Anyotherproposedmodificationshallbedeemedunacceptable.
TheBlueWaveproposaldoesnotinvolveanymodificationstotheexistinglandfillcap.Theproposed
photovoltaicsystemtobeinstalledattheOldLandfillintheTownofAmherstwillutilizestateoftheart
SchletterPVMax3ballastedrackingsystemsfortheinstallationofPVmodules.TheSchletterPVMax3
hasbeen developed toguaranteeeasy andcost effective installations of large-scale groundmounted
systems on sites where ground penetration is undesirable. The system is adaptable to almost any
terrain.Thedimensioningofthesystemisbasedonexactanddetailedanalysisofeachsiteincludingsoil
analysis,considerationofwindandsnowloads,aswellaspulloutandcompressiontestsoftherack
fundaments.Inaddition,Inverterskidswillbestrategicallyplacedandbuiltuponcementplatformsthat
willalsoprojecttheexistinglandfillcapandensuresafeoperationofthesystemduringitsservicelife.
WehavedesignedandpermittedprojectsonsitesquitesimilartotheOldLandfill.
1.2.Proposalprotectsoperationoflandfillgassystems.A Proposal that fully protects operation of landfill gas systems shall be considered highly
advantageous. A proposal that requires modification of the operation of the gas system shall be
advantageous only ifthe modificationscan beaccomplishedin accordanceDEPapproved methods.
Anyotherproposedmodificationshallbedeemedunacceptable.
TheBlueWaveproposalwillfullyprotecttheoperationof thelandfillgassystemoperatingontheOld
LandfillintheTownofAmherst.Theinstallationandmaintenanceoftheproposedphotovoltaicsystem
onthelandfillprovidesforsetbackstotheexistinggaswellsandmonitoringsystemssimilartodesigns
wehaveemployedonotherMSWlandfills.Thiswillensurecontinuedanduninterruptedoperationsofthelandfillgassystem.
1.3.ExperienceofteamproposingprojectIf the proposal includes any modification to or operation of a solid waste management activity, a
proposal that demonstrates at least ten years experience in solid waste management activities in
Massachusettsshallbeconsideredhighlyadvantageous.Aproposalthatdemonstratesatleastfive
years of experience shall be deemed advantageous. More than three years shall be deemed
acceptable.Lessthanthreeyearsshallbeunacceptable.
Theprojectteamhasdevelopedandfinancedmorethan40MWofsolarphotovoltaicenergyprojectsin
North America and Europe. Tighe and Bond and TRC, our environmental permitting partners, have
extensivelandfillpermittingandO+Mexperience.Tighe&Bond,isanationalenvironmentalconsulting,andengineeringfirmwithaMassachusettspresenceworkingwithfirmsofallsizesonfossil,renewable,
andlandfillprojectsnationwide.Theybringextensiveknowledgeandexperienceinthereuseoflandfills
toourefforts.
Ourelectricalengineeringandpermittingpartner,TRCSolutions,isaMassachusettsbasedengineering,
consulting and construction management firm providing integrated services to the energy,
environmental and infrastructure markets nationwide with over 2,400 professionals and 70 offices
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throughouttheUnitedStates.TRChaspermittednumerouswindandsolarprojectsacrosstheUnited
Statesaswellasprovideddesignandengineeringsupport.TRCledthepermittingeffortfortheonly
solarfacilityonanMSWlandfillintheCommonwealthandispresentlyengagedonasimilarprojectin
KernCounty,California.
BoschSolarEnergy AGis awhollyownedsubsidiaryofBoschAG,oneof theworldslargestindustrial
conglomerates. Bosch Solar Energy AG is a vertically integrated manufacturer and EPC firm with a
strongfinancialbalancesheet thus reducing projectcostsandfullymitigatinganyrisk ofconstruction
completionandoperationalefficiency.
Smart Energy Capital develops and finances solar PV projects throughout North America. The
Companys management team has extensive experience in solar project development, structured
financeandinvestmentmanagementand$180M in financialbackingforsolarPVprojectsfromDuke
EnergyServicesandIntegrys.
Section8ofourproposalcontainsadetaileddiscussionrelatedtotheteamstaffthatwillbededicated
tothisprojectaswellastheirqualificationsandareasofexpertise.
TRCSolutions,TigheandBondandBlueWaveeachhaveextensivelandfillandbrownfieldsdevelopment
experienceanddeepknowledgeofthepolicyandregulatorylandscapeassociatedwiththeoperation,
maintenance,re-use,andpermittingoflandfils.TRCrecentlypermittedtheonlysolargeneratingfacility
installationonalandfillinMassachusettsandoneofthefirstinthecountry.
BlueWavehasbeenactivelyinvolvedintheredevelopmentofcontaminatedpropertiessince2003and
its Managing Partner oversaw state and federal landfill regulation and permitting during his public
servicecareerasMassachusettsSecretaryofEnvironmentalAffairsandNewEnglandAdministratorof
theUnitedStatesEnvironmentalProtectionAgency.
TigheandBondhasalongrecordofcost-effectivelyprovidinglandfillengineering,permitting,operation
and maintenance services to numerous Massachusetts communities and has worked closely andeffectivelywiththeWesternRegionofficeofMassDEPonnumeroussolidwastemanagementissues.
1.4.Risktohuman,healthandtheenvironment.Proposals that pose no risk to human, health and the environment shall be deemed highly
advantageous. Proposals that pose minimum risk shall be considered advantageous. All other
proposalsshallbedeemedunacceptable.
BlueWaveCapitalbelievesthisprojectwillposeabsolutelynorisktohuman,healthortheenvironment.
TheproposedAmherstPhotovoltaicProjectisemissionsandwaste-freeandwillinnowayinterferewith
neighboringpropertiesandresidents.Furthermore,webelievethattheprojectwillactasastrongsignal
by the Town and its community regarding its commitment to environmentally sound and socially
responsible fiscal management and economic development. The Amherst Photovoltaic Project will
produceclean,renewableenergyforatleast30yearsforthebenefitoftheTownanditsresidentswith
noadverseenvironmentalimpacts.
1.5.Effectontheenvironment.Proposals that have a positive effect on the environment, i.e. reduces green house gases shall be
deemedhighlyadvantageous.
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BlueWaveCapitalsproposaltoconverttheOldLandfillintoasolarphotovoltaicenergyfacilitywillhave
ameasurableandimportantsetofpositiveeffectsontheenvironment.The4.75MWfacilityBlueWave
proposestobuildwouldprovideforvirtuallyalloftheTownofAmherstselectricityconsumption.The
facilitywouldavoidtheemissionofover6milliontonsofCO2peryearandwouldbeequivalenttothe
permanent removal of over 1,200 automobiles from the road. It will have substantial benefits in
reducing Sulfur Dioxide, Nitrogen Oxide, Volatile Organic Compounds and other harmful emissions
associated with fosil fuel-generatedelectricity. Lastly,the environmental benefits would be a strong
complementtotheeconomicbenefittotheTownofAmherstderivedfromthediscountedpurchaseof
theprojectselectricityoverthelifeofthecontract.
1.6.Projectcompatibilitywithneighboringproperties.Proposalsthatarecompatiblewithneighboringpropertiesshallbeconsideredhighlyadvantageous.
Proposals that involve minimum disruptionshallbe considered acceptable. Proposals that arenot
compatibleshallbeconsideredunacceptable.
BlueWave Capital believes this project will be compatible with neighboring properties and, in fact,
provide solar opportunities for them that will further reduce their own electricity costs.
We will work with Town officials to meet with and listen to neighborhood residents to help themunderstandallaspects oftheproject,participatein theplanningfortheproject,andstayinformedof
projectprogress.Whiletheconstructionandoperationoftheprojectisneitherloudnornoxious,wewill
schedule facility construction activity (estimated to be approximately 3 months) at times most
convenient to neighborhood residents. BlueWave has extensive experience working with community
groups and elected officials on complex development projects and very much values, respects and
practicesatransparent,community-based,interactiveapproachtoprojectdevelopment.
Furthermore, webelievethatthe project will act as a strong signal bythe Town and its community
regarding itscommitment to environmentally sound and sociallyresponsible economic development.
The Amherst Photovoltaic Project will produceclean, renewable energy for at least 30 years for the
benefitoftheTownanditsresidents.
BlueWave has a close affiliation with Alteris Renewables and has been deeply involved in the
development of Alteriss Zero Down Solar program whereby owners of residential, commercial and
institutionalpropertiescantakeadvantageofno-money-down,lowcostfinancingtoinstallsolarenergy
systemson theirproperties. Thesystem costsare paidbackovertimethrougha low-interest loan.In
most cases property owners are able to reduce their overall electricity bill through this program.
BlueWave will work with the Town and community leaders to make this program available to
neighboring property owners as well as to residents throughout the Town thereby enhancing the
benefitstotheTownanditspropertytaxpayers.
1.7.Noiselevelsfromuseofsite
Proposals that do not result in constant noise or sound above 70 db shall be considered highlyadvantageous.Proposalsthatresultinnoiseabove70dbforperiodsoftimebetween7:30Amand
4:00 PM Monday thru Friday shall be considered Advantageous. All other proposals shall be
consideredunacceptable.Emergencysituationsandconstructionactivitiesshallbeexemptfromthis
condition.
BlueWave Capital believes this project will not generate any type of constant noise. Photovoltaic
electricgenerationsystemsareinertinnatureandwouldthusnothaveanimpactonnoiselevelsinthe
vicinityoftheOldLandfill.Asmentionedabove,wewillworkcloselywiththecommunitytoinsurethat
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construction activities, while not loud, are undertaken during periods most convenient for
neighborhoodresidents.
1.7.BestcompensationtoTownofAmherstProposals that provide the best compensation to the Town of Amherst will be considered Highly
Advantageous.
BlueWaveproposestoconverttheOldLandfillintoasolarphotovoltaicenergygenerationfacilitythat
willprovideforvirtuallyalloftheTownselectricityneedsaswellasprovideadditionalandconsiderable
financialbenefitstotheTownoverthelifeoftheproject.Detailsregardingfinancialrecompensetothe
TownofAmherstarecontainedwithinthePriceProposal.
2.PROJECTUNDERSTANDING
2.1.ProjectBackgroundThe BlueWave Capital team has created a concept design for a 4.75MW (DC) project to be located
within the Town of Amhersts old municipal landfill site across from the transfer station at 740
BelchertownRoad.Thissystemsizeisimportant,aswebelieveitwillbelargeenoughtoprovidethe
Town with a material portion of its energy needs (90+%), material cost savings over the life of thecontractandwillavoidsomeofthehurdlesfacedbylargerprojectsintheinterconnectionprocessgiven
theintermittentnatureofsolarphotovoltaicelectricitygeneration.
We estimate the Old Landfill can support a photovoltaic system of up to 4.75MW while ensuring
continueduseofthelandfillslandfillgassystemandpreserving,withoutalteration,thelandfillcapand
avoiding negative impact on human, health or environment. BlueWave proposes that the Town of
Amherstpurchasenetmeteringcreditsgeneratedbythephotovoltaicsystemandiswillingtoenterinto
discussionswithmembersoftheAmherstcommunitytosellanyexcessgenerationfromthesystemto
theSchoolDepartmentorotherlocalinstitutionsundersimilartermstothoseofferedtotheTown.
The proposed facility also falls well within the size limits set for qualification as a Solar Carve-out
RenewableGenerationUnit,withSolarCarve -outRenewableGenerationAttributes,asdefinedwithin
thedraftRPSregulations ofthe Massachusetts Departmentof EnergyResourcesRegulation225CMR
14.00.
BlueWaveiscommittedtoengagingtheWMECODistributedGenerationteamtoexplorewaysinwhich
thetotalcapacityoftheAmherstSolarProjectmaybeincreasedfurthergiventhespaceavailableonthe
siteandtheTownsabilitytouseadditionalpowergeneratedbythesystem.
ThenewSolarCarve-Outsystemensuresthattheprojectwillhavealong-termrevenuestreamforSolar
RenewableEnergyCredits(SRECs).ThesaleoftheseSRECsenablesBlueWaveCapitaltooffertheTown
of Amherst an attractive financialproposal that willallow the Town to purchaseelectricity at a rate
substantiallybelowmarketratesforthedurationofthecontractandensurethefinancingandlong-
termviabilityoftheProject.AfurtherdiscussionoftheimportanceoftheSolarCarveOutandSRECsis
includedlaterinthisdocument.
2.2.ScopeofEPCWorkBosch Solar Energy will supply a turnkey 4.75MW DC Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic Power Plant by
offering Design and Engineering, Construction, Project Management and System Commissioning
Services.BoschwillalsoprovideOperationandMaintenanceforthelifetimeofthesystemasithaswith
dozensofprojectsinNorthAmericaandEurope.
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Thesystemwillbecomprisedofone4.75MWfacility.Thesystemdesignwillbeoptimizedforlocal
ambient conditions,electricalgrid characteristics, topographicfeatures of thelandfill andlandfillcap
load capacity. Duringthedesign phase,BoschSolarEnergywillcoordinate with theTownof Amherst,
WMECO,andISO-NEtodesignthePhotovoltaicPowerPlantsothatitmeetscustomerexpectationsfor
performance,reliabilityandsafety,minimizesimpacttothelocalgrid,andmeetsallrelevantstandards
includingIEEE1547,UL1741,andNEC2008.TigheandBond,inpartnershipwithBosch,willperforma
geo-technicalanalysistoensuretheintegrityofboththesolarPVsystemandthelandfillforthelifetime
ofthepowerpurchaseagreement.Asetofconstructiondrawingswillbedevelopedwhichwillincludea
sitelayoutdesignatinglocationsofPVsystemcomponents,electrical1-lineand3-linedrawingsdetailing
allelectricalcomponentsfromthePVmodulestothegrid-interconnection,modulemounting,conduit
routing and performance monitoring data flow diagrams. Construction drawings for the proposed
systemwillbestampedbyaprofessionalengineerlicensedinthestateofMassachusetts.
BlueWave and Bosch will manage the permitting, construction and utility interconnection of the PV
systemby coordinatingwiththeTownof Amhersts Building Department,WMECO,ISO-NE, Tigheand
Bond and TRC Solutions. Bosch will specify and source all major components required in the
constructionofthePVpowerplanttoensurethatthesecomponentsmeetallrelevantstandardsforPV
systemsincluding theNEC, ULandIEEE.TheProject ManagementTeamwillsourceproven,local sub-
contactors to install the mounting structure, electrical system and data monitoring devices while
workingalongsideAmherstandWMECOofficialstomakesurethesystemissafetocommission.
Once the system has been constructed Bosch Solar Energy will perform a System Commissioning
Checklisttoensurepropersysteminstallationandfunctionality.Oncethechecklisthasbeencompleted,
thesystemwillbeCommissionedandanOperationandMaintenance(O&M)Manualwillbeissued.
Themanualdetailssystemspecificsandoperatingconditions,componentmaintenanceschedulesand
procedures. The manual alsocontains an Appendix, which includescomponents specification sheets,
constructiondrawings,permitsandcommissioningdocuments.Trainingsessionswillbeconductedby
Bosch Solar Energy, as part of the system commissioning, to instruct Amherst Department of Public
WorksstaffandotherofficialsasappropriateonthePVPowerPlantanditssafetyfeatures.
BoschSolarEnergywillprovideO& Mon thesystemforthedurationof thecontract.On abi-annualbasis, electrical connections and mounting connections will be torqued to the manufacturers
specificationsandanalyzedforweathering,debriswillberemovedfromonoraroundthePVmodules,
the system performance will be tested, concrete pads and footings will be examined for cracks or
displacementandinverterairfilterswillbechanged.Throughoutthelifeofthesystemanyalertsfrom
theDataAcquisitionSystemwillberespondedtoimmediatelytominimizesystemdowntime.
Aspartofon-goingmaintenanceof thesystemandthe maintenanceofthe landfillconsistentwithall
DEPrequirementswearepreparedtoprovideservicesor fundingtooff-setcoststheTownmayincur
formowing,landfillmonitoringorotherlandfillmaintenanceobligationsshouldtheTownDPWorother
officialssodesire.
2.3.EPCAssumptionsIn order to complete this proposal, we have consulted extensively with Tighe and Bond, TRC and
WMECOin orderto developconfidence inseveral assumptionswe aremaking regardingthe Amherst
Landfill site, as this information is crucial in determining system costs and scope of work. The
assumptionswehavemadeandinwhichwehaveconfidenceare:
The Amherst Landfill Site will be suitable to install a ground-mounted ballasted system. The geo-
technical study will be favorable towards the sites ability to bear the static load of the mounting
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structure,thePVmodules,theinverter,transformerandswitchgear,inthelocationdesignatedforthem
fromthesitelayout.
Thelandfillsitewillrequirelittleornositepreparationtobeginconstructionofthepowerplantfacility
andPVmodulescanbeorientedduesouthinordertomaximizePVenergyproduction.
Electrical interconnection can be made to WMECOs electric power system (EPS) without significant
impacttothegridcapacityandwithoutsignificantcostsassociatedwithanyrequiredupgradestothe
EPS.
2.4.SiteLayoutFigure1belowshowstheTownofAmherstsOldLandfillwithAreaDetail.Figure2belowshowsa
conceptSitePlanfortheTownofAmherstsSolarEnergyArray,includingtheapproximatelocationsof
modulesandinvertersonthesite.TheBlueWaveproposalcontemplatestheuseofareas5&7ofthe
OldLandfillwhileleavingAreas6&8unused.An8.5x11scaleversionoftheSitePlanisincludedin
AppendixA.Thesitelayoutwascreatedassuming20,664Boschc-SiM60230WcrystallinePVmodules.
Themodulesareconnectedinstringstoathreeseparateinverterstations,twoofthem1.5MWACand
oneofthem1MWAC.TheinverterstationscontainAdvancedEnergySoloron500500kWinverters
anda1000kVA480Y/138000Dtransformers.DetailedproductspecificationsforthePVmodules,inverterandgroundmountsystemareincludedinAppendixB.Thearraysaretiltedatanangleof20
degreestooptimizetheyearlyoutputandminimizewindloadingonthestructures.Thearraysare
arrangedinrowswithapproximately10betweenrows.Finallayoutwillbedeterminedthroughthe
postclosurepermitprocesswithMADEP.DetailsontheMADEPprocessandthemodules,inverters,
andarraysareprovidedintheAppendicesofthisProposal.
Figure1:TownofAmherstOldLandfillMapwithAreaDetail
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andMADEPtoensurethatourprojectdoesnotinterfereandcanactuallyhelpfacilitatetheprocessof
gradingofArea5tocorrectsettlementonthesiteunderaMajorModpermitfromtheMADEP.
Materialsandstudiesthatwewillprovideaspartofthispermittingprocessareasfollows:
SolidWasteSiteAssignment -Document thelandfills solidwastesiteassignment,particularlyany specific requirements or limitations that would constrain, preclude or prevent the
implementationofapostclosureuseattheclosedlandfill.
LandfillPropertyDeed: Identifyanylimitationsestablishedforthepropertythatmayconstrainorprecludetheproposedactivity.
Environmental Site Assessment - Provide a summary of the findings of the site assessmentperformedinaccordancewith310CMR19.150,andevaluatetherelevanceofthatinformation
totheproposedpostclosureuseactivity.Identifyanyadditionalassessmentworkthatmaybe
neededtoevaluatetheimpactsoftheproposedpostclosureactivity.
Closure Permit and Closure Certification - Include copies of the closure permit and closurecertificationapprovalissuedbyMassDEPforthelandfill.
Site Plan Plan showing the landfill limits, siteassignment limits, and allfeatures/appurtenancesonthesiteincludingabuttingpropertieswithina500 footradiusof
thelandfill.
LandfillCappingDesignPlanPlanshowingallfeaturesofthelandfillsexistingcappingsystemandanyproposedchangestothatdesign.
PostClosureUseDesignPlanPlansandreportsdescribingtheactivitiesrequiredtoprepare,construct,installandoperatethepostclosureusedevelopmentandassociatedactivities.
Storm Water Drainage/RunOff Control Plan Plan showing all storm water controlsystems/featuresandanyalterationsthatwillbeneededforthepostclosureactivity.
StormWaterErosionControlPlanPlanshowingallerosioncontrolfeaturesassociatedwiththeconstructionandoperationofthepost closureuse.
LandfillGas Control/Monitoring Plan Description and planshowingall existing gas controlequipment as wellas anymodifications to thegas controlsystem that would be required to
accommodatethepostclosureuse.
GeotechnicalSettlementandStabilityAnalysis Description of the existing waste mass(i.e.type, depth, etc) and the potential for differential settlement, potential effects on the
postclosureuseandananalysisofthestabilityofallstructuresandreinforcementnecessary
tobuildonthelandfillcapandsideslopes.
Capping System Interface Description and plan illustrating the relationship between theexistingcappingandtheproposedconstruction,installation,andoperationofthepost
closure
use.Describehowthepostclosureusewilloverlay thecappingsystem,and whether(andif
so,how)itwouldrequirepenetratingthecappingsystem.
Utilities Descriptionandplan detailingall existing utilitiesand anynewutilitiesthatwillberequiredforthepostclosureactivity,suchasutilitylinesthatwillsupportconnectionstothe
electrictransmissiongridorotherelectricityusers
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Environmental Monitoring Description and plan illustrating the landfills existingenvironmental monitoring systems, focusing on landfillgas monitoringsystemsand measures
thatwillsafeguardagainstlandfillgasbuild upandan explosion/fireriskassociatedwiththe
postclosureuse.
Qualitative Health & Environmental Risk Assessment Demonstration that the proposedpost closure use activities (construction, maintenance activities) will not pose a health or
safetyrisktoeitherthepublicoroperatorsofthepostclosureuse.Ambientairmonitoring
andnearsurfacemethanemonitoringmaybenecessarytoevaluatelandfillgasemissionsand
theintegrityofthecap.
PostClosure Monitoring & Maintenance Plan A description of all associated activitiesregardingthemonitoringandmaintenanceofthelandfill/siteinclusiveofthepostclosureuse
activityasitrelatestomaintainingtheintegrityofthelandfillcappingsystem.
FinancialAssuranceDescriptionofthemechanismthatwillbeusedtoprovideassurancethatthecareandmaintenanceofthelandfillcappingsystemisproperlyperformedthroughoutthe
30
yearpost
closureperiod(thismustincludetheoperationalandmaintenanceneedsofthepostclosureuseactivity),inaccordancewith310CMR19.051.
Wetlands Protection Plan (310 CMR 10.00) Documentation of a determination of theapplicability of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. This project will not impact
wetlands
MEPA Description and documentation that the proposed postclosure use activity is incompliancewiththeprovisionsof301CMR11.00.Duetothesizeofthisproject,MEPAisnota
requiredprocess.
Followingsubmissionofallrequiredmaterials,weexpectthepermittingprocesstotakeroughly100
calendardaysforbothAdministrativeandTechnicalreviewbyMADEP.Concurrentwiththisprocess,we
willproceed withzoning review with theTown of Amherst. Building permits and other construction
permitswillbeinitiatedfollowingMADEPapprovalandshouldbeobtainedwithin2-3weeks.
2.6.PhotovoltaicSystemPermittingBlueWave,TRCandTigheandBondwillapplyforandprocureallnecessarylocal,regional,andstate
permits.Wewillensurethatallsuchpermitsareapprovedandavailablebeforethestartofinstallation.
As part of the preparation for project construction, we will provide the following information as
necessaryforinclusioninrequiredpermitapplications:
1. Elevationplansshowingfront,side,andrearviewsoftheproposedstructurestobebuilt2. SitePlan,includingphotovoltaicarraylayoutstampedbyaProfessionalEngineerandshowing
thesiteboundaries,planviewofproposedsystem,andanyotherrelevantsitedetails3. Electrical Diagram detailing the photovoltaic system wiring, associated components, over
currentdevices,andelectricalinterconnectiondetail.Electricaldesignwillbecompliantwith
theNationalElectricalCodeandwillbestampedbyaProfessionalEngineer.
4. Documentation of the major system components to be used, including modules, mountingsystem,andinverter
5. BlueWavename,address,andcontactinformation
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6. Name,address,phonenumber,andsignatureoftheprojectowner,aswellasallco-ownersorpropertyowners
7. Name,contactinformation,andsignatureofanyagentsrepresentingtheprojectowner8. Documentation of actual or prospective control of the project site, sufficient to allow for
constructionandoperationoftheproposedsolarphotovoltaicinstallation
9. Plan for the operation and maintenance of the large-scale ground-mounted photovoltaicinstallation,whichshallincludemeasuresformaintainingsafeaccesstotheinstallation,as
wellasgeneralproceduresforoperationandmaintenanceoftheinstallation
10.Proofofliabilityinsurance11.Emergencyresponseplan,ifrequired,detailingmeansofshuttingdownthephotovoltaicsystem12.WewillalsoaskAmhersttoidentifyaresponsiblecontactpersonforpublicinquiriesthroughout
thelifeoftheproject
Sincetheproposedprojectisfortheconstructionandoperationofanewrenewableenergyfacility,an
application for qualification under the renewable energy portfolio standards is required to receive
SRECs. The facility will qualify as a Small Power Production facility and receive RECs based on the
amountofenergygenerated.AqualifyingrenewablegenerationunitiscreditedwithoneSRECforevery
1,000kWh,oronemegawatt-hour(MWh),ofelectricityitproduces.BlueWavewillfollowtheExecutive
Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs' online application process for RPS Class I applicants to
submitacompletedStatementofQualificationApplicationform.
StatementofQualificationPursuanttoMassachusettsRPSTheMassachusettsDepartmentofEnergyResources(DOER)mustgrantaStatementofQualification
for a solar energy project to qualify as a New Renewable Generation Unit under theRenewable
Energy Portfolio Standards. Qualification enables a solar PV system operator to sell SRECs to
facilitiesneedingadditionalcreditsintheirportfolio,orotherwiseontheopenmarket.
2.7.ProjectConstructionScheduleTable1belowshowsaprojectmilestoneschedulefortheTownofAmherstsSolarEnergyProject.This
is a conservative project schedule with contingency builtin to ensure delivery according to the
schedulesetforthinthisProposal.AfullGanttchartscheduleoutliningallthepertinenttasksforthis
projectisincludedinAppendixF.Asnotedabove,itassumesthestandardpermittingprocessthrough
MADEP, and as discussed below it assumes the standard interconnection process with WMECO.
BlueWavebelievesthisprojectwilllikelyqualifyforMADEPFastTrackPermittingandanExpedited
ProcesswithWMECO.(Probablyshouldaddonemonthtothepermittingscheduletoconformwiththe
text.)
Table1:ConstructionSchedule
ProjectMilestone CompletionDateRFPResponseSubmittal 12/23/2010
ContractSigned 2/03/2011
PPAExecuted 3/01/2011
InterconnectionApplicationFiled 3/03/2011
Post-ClosurePermitApplicationFiled 3/05/2011
ModuleSupplySecured 7/14/2011
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LocalPermitsAwarded 6/03/2011
Post-ClosurePermitsAwarded 6/03/2011
InterconnectionAgreementSigned 6/10/2011
FinancialClosing 6/15/2011
ConstructionCompleted 9/08/2011
ProjectCommissioning 9/20/2011
2.8.EquipmentProcurement&ConstructionManagementPlan2.8.1.EquipmentProcurementPlan
BlueWaveproposesinstallingBoschSolarEnergyAGphotovoltaicmodules,AdvancedEnergyinverters,
Schletter ground mounting systems, and DECK Monitoring systems for the Town of Amhersts Solar
EnergyProject.DatasheetswithequipmentspecificationsincludingsizeareincludedinAppendixB.To
ensurethisequipmentarrivesontimeandundamaged,BoschSolarutilizesthefollowingprocess:
1. DevelopPurchaseOrder: Purchasingreviews final designplansand developsa purchase orderbasedontherequestedequipment.
2. PurchaseOrder Verification: The purchase orderis sent tothe Project Manager in charge ofconstructionforsign-offandverificationofequipment.
3. EquipmentDelivery
4. ReviewPackingSlips:UpondeliveryofequipmentBoschwillreviewthepackingslipandcountequipmenttoensurethequantitiesonthepackingslipmatchwhathasbeendelivered.
5. ConsultwithManufacturer:Ifthequantitiesdelivereddonotmatchthepackingslip,BoschSolarwillcallthemanufacturerpriortosigningoffonthepackingslip,toverifywhatwasshipped
basedontheirrecords.
6. ConsultwithShippingCompany:Ifthemanufacturerverifiesthatthequantitiesshippeddonotmatchthequantitydelivered,Boschwillrefusetoaccepttheshipmentandfileaclaimwiththe
shippingcompany.
7. Inspection for physicaldamage: If the quantities delivered do match the packing slip, Boschinspectsallboxestoensurethereisnophysicaldamage.Ifexteriorphysicaldamageispresent,
ateammemberopensthepackageandensuretherehasbeennodamagetotheequipment
contained within. If necessary, Bosch will test the equipment at this point to ensure it is in
workingorder.
8. SignoffonPackingSlip:Boschwillsignpackingslip,formallyacceptingdeliveryofequipment.
9. Fillouton-siteMaterialandEquipmentVerificationList:Theemployeewhoacceptsdeliveryfillsout an equipment verification sheet and ensures the QA/QC supervisor has signed off on
delivery.
2.8.2.ConstructionManagementPlan
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BlueWaves EPC subcontractor, Bosch Solar Energy AG acts as the primary point of contact and
accountability,providingongoingcommunicationandcoordinationoftheproject.BoschSolarEnergys
responsibilitiesinclude:
Construct an overall plan for the installation, addressing labor and equipment requirements,safety,andscheduling
Confirmthatthesystemmaintainsroofandstructuralintegrity
Determineallloadingimpactofthearray,wind,snow,etc.priortotheinstallation
Confirmthatthesystemwillhave noadverse impacton anyof theexistingbuildingelectricalsystems
Confer with Electrical Engineeringteam to configure any remaining required electrical designdetails;obtainElectricalProfessionalEngineerstamponfinalplans
Reviewthetariffrequirementsforinterconnectingthephotovoltaicsystemwiththepowergrid;confer with WMECO interconnect personnel to determine whetherfeasibility, impact,and/or
facilitystudieswillbeneeded
IdentifyinsurancerequirementsandensureBoschSolarcompliance
ConferwithAmhersttodeterminehowandwherematerialswillbeunloadedandstoredonsite
ReportinstallationprogresstoAmherstandmakechangestoinstallationscheduleifnecessarytoaccommodatefacilityactivity
Overseewitnesstestingwhenfinalelectricalapprovalisobtained
Conductsystemtrainingforfacilitystaff
Commission the system by demonstrating start-up and shutdown sequences, safetyrequirements,andemergencyprocedures
ObtainapprovalfromAmherstthatthesiteshavebeencleanedtotheirsatisfaction
ObtainAmherstssign-off,withalistofanyitemstoberectifiedorcompleted
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2.9.SystemInstallationSchedule
2.9.1.ProjectManagement
Theprojectteamtakesgreat pridein theirwork,whichis evidencedby thesuperiorcraftsmanshipofevery Bosch Solar Energy installation. Team employees are among the most skilled and talented
professionalsintheindustry.Frominceptiontocompletion,BoschSolarEnergysprojectsarehandled
byhighlytraineddesigners,engineers,analysts,projectmanagers,andtechnicianstoensurethehighest
quality.
Each member of the Bosch project team knows their role and what they are responsible for. The
Regional Director acts as the primary point of contact and accountability, providing ongoing
communication andcoordinationof theproject.TheOperationsManagercoordinatesandsubmits all
paperwork associated withthe project. TheProject Managercoordinates labor andmaterial logistics.
TheSeniorTechnicianistheliaisonbetweentheProjectManagerandtheinstallationcrew.
2.9.2.Scheduling
The BlueWave team recognizes the necessity of successfully implementing projects that meet our
customers desired timeline. We also understand the importance of minimal disruption to the daily
operationsofafacility.TheteamwillworkdirectlywithAmherstofficialsandsitemanagerstocreatea
detailedschedulestartingfromthedatethecontractissignedthroughinstallationandcommissioning,
includingmilestonessuchasexpectedpermitprocurementandequipmentdelivery,andadheretothat
schedule. Any testing that requires a shut-down of the electrical system of the facility will be
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coordinatedwellinadvancewiththeappropriatefacilitiesmanagerinordertominimizeinterruptionof
facilityoperations.
2.9.3.Security
BlueWaveand Bosch understandthe unique security requirements associatedwith workingon public
facilities. Our installation teams have received and complied with security clearance procedures formilitarybases,airports,andschools.Boschwillseekoutandcomplywithtownandsite-specificsecurity
requirements as defined by Amherst officials and site managers. All Bosch applicants undergo
backgroundchecksbeforebecomingemployees.
Boschwillalsoberesponsibleformaintainingthesecurityofthesystemequipment.Inconsultationwith
Amherst officials Bosch will determine the best means of securing the solar modules, inverters, and
balance-of-systemcomponentstopreventtheftorvandalism.
Base security plan features the installation of 6 fencing around the array. If additional security is
required, Bosch is able to incorporate, at additional cost, security systems such as fence-cut wires,
string-levelmonitoringwhichcandetectmoduletheft,lightingandvideocameras.
2.9.4.Safety
BlueWaveandBoschrecognizesafetyasanissueofpremierimportance.Therefore,Boschemployees
undergo rigorous safety training to ensure constant awareness of potential hazards and necessary
precautions.It is Bosch company policy that all installers as wellas subcontractors completethe
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-hour course prior to working on a job
site.Boschemploysafull-timeDirectorofSafetyandTrainingwhoregularlyconductsOSHAtrainingsfor
a variety of skills required to install solar energy systems. Subcontractors are required to follow the
samestrictsafetyrequirementsasBoschemployees.TheSafetyDirectorandon-siteProjectManager
areresponsible forensuringall Bosch employees andsubcontractorshavehad thenecessarytraining
andcarrytheirOSHAcardsonthejobsiteasrequired.
TheProjectManagerandSeniorTechnicianwillberesponsibleforensuringallsafetyproceduresarefollowedaccordingly.Inordertoensurethatthesestandardsafetypracticesarecarriedout,theSafety
Directorandmembersofhisteamconductrandomandunannouncedsafetyauditsofinstallationsites.
Theauditorchecksforseveralitems,including:
Crewinformedofunsafeareas/conditions Crewinformedoffirstaid/eyewashstations Workareahasadequatelighting Toolsinpropercondition Properwarningsignsandlabelsposted AtleastonepersontrainedinCPR/FirstAid
Ifany oftheseitemsarefoundto besubstandard,demeritsare given totheoffender,and correctiveactionsaretaken.
Bosch will work with the facility representative and other decision makers to develop a site-specific
SafetyAwarenessPlangearedtowardskeepingbuildingresidentsandBoschemployeessafe.TheSafety
Planwilladdressstandardsafetyissues,aswellassite-specificconcernspresentedbythesitedecision
makers.
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2.10.CommissioningOurteamconductsadetailedtestingandcommissioningforeverysystemitinstalls.Theteamconducts
thecommissioningwithaclientrepresentativepresent.Thecommissioningprocesshasbeenhonedand
perfected to include notation of all system component information, detailed electrical checkout,
thorougharrayperformanceassessment,andafinalwalkthrough.Thismethodensuresthequalityand
reliabilityofthesystems,andaninformedclient.
Commissioningbeginswiththenotationofallsystem-relatedinformation,including:
Sourcecircuitfusedcombinerboxes DCdisconnectswitch(es)andACdisconnectswitch(es)(includingfusetypesandrating) kWhmeter Inverterinformation(manufacturerandmodel,includingserialnumber)includingchecking
correctpolarityatconnectionsandproperDCEGECconnectionstoGroundingElectrode
Alldataacquisitionsysteminformation(includingconfirmationofNetworkconnection,functions,serialnumbers)
Upon completely noting this information and performing these basic system checks, the technicianconductsathoroughelectricalcheckout.Thiselectricalcheckoutincludes:
MegOhmreadingsofeachlinetovariousdisconnectsateachcomponent VerificationofproperACvoltageattheACdisconnectfromLinetoLine,LinetoNeutral,and
correctPhaseRotation
TestofDCsourcecircuitsbetweenthecombinerandeachstring Notationofopencircuitvoltages(VOCdc)atthecombiner(lookingforopensandreverse
polarity)
NotationoftheMaxPowerPointCurrent(IMPdc)atthefusedcombiner(lookingforbalancedoutput)
AssessmentoftheDCandACcircuitsattheMaxPowerPointatavailablecombiners,LineAmps
UsingInverteroutputreading,DASpowerreading,Handheldmeasurements,weverifyfeedingsbetweeninverters,theDASandusingHandheldinstrumentstoperformathree-way
confirmationofelectricalreadings
ThetechnicianwilltesttheinvertertoensurethatitperformsaccordancewithUL1741anti-islandingtest
Throughoutthischeckout,theCommissioningTechnicianalsoinspectsthesysteminstallationtoensureworkmanshipwasaccomplishedinaccordancewithcurrentNationalElectricCode(NEC),
andlocalbuildingcodes.Thisinspectionincludesphotosanddocumentationoftheentire
systemsandcomponents
Afterthedetailedelectricalcheckout,arrayperformanceisassessedforeachinverterinthesystem.
Informationnotedand/orcalculatedincludes:
Modulemanufacturerandquantity Numberperstring Numberofstrings Orientation Tiltangle PoweratSTC PeakDCpowerrating
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ModuleirradianceatSTC Irradiancemeasurementstodetermineperformancecalculations ModuletemperatureatSTC Modulecelltemperatureattimeoftest Moduletemperatureofcoefficientpoweraspublishedbymanufacturer Modulecelltemperaturefactor Systemde-ratefactorconfirmationofPVWatts(confirmedcalculationonsite:mismatch,
inverterefficiency,soiling,wiringlosses,etc.)
Predictedsystemperformance ActualACoutputmeasuredonsiteversussystemperformancepredictedbyPVWattsand
Manufacturersspecificationstovalidateactualperformanceiswithin10%ofpredicted
Oncecommissioningiscompleted,thepaperworkissubmittedtotheutilitycompany.Afterreceiptof
permission to interconnect by the utility company is received, the technician will be dispatched to
energizethesystemandperformafinalwalkthroughwiththecustomer.Thisassessmentaddressesthe
following:
Disconnectsareleftintheonposition Lockouttagsareremoved kWhmetersareworking Monitoringsystemisreceivingdata LCDdisplaysareoperational
Atechniciannotesanyproblemsthatneedtobeaddressed,providesanyapplicablerecommendations
forimprovementin theinstallation, andnotes comments fromthe client.After thesystemhas been
energized,Boschwillscheduleatrainingclassforcustomeremployeesandcoveroperationanddetails
of their system.At that time manuals for all of the parts and components will be provided to the
customer. Subsequent to the final commissioning walk through, Bosch dispatches an independent
technicianorengineertoconductaQualityAssuranceInspection.
2.11.NamingRightsWhileBlueWaveCapitalhasentitledtheprojectAmherstSolarProjectforpurposesofthisproposal,the
TownofAmherstwillretainnamingrightstotheproject.ShouldtheTowndesireadifferentnamewith
regional, historic, or community interest, BlueWave Capital supports that effort and will market the
projectaccordingly.AstheAmherstSolarProjectisaninnovativeapplicationoflanduseandalsoan
innovativeuseofsolarenergy,weanticipatethattheprojectwillreceivewidespreadmediaattention
locallyandnationally.
2.12.DecommissioningBlueWave intends that this projectwillremainat the site for atleast 30years and potentially for a
longerperiodoftime.PVmodulesinJapanhavebeendocumentedtobeoperatingreliably50years
afterinstallation.However,aswithanycommercialventure,adecommissioningplanisrequired.
AttheconclusionofthePowerPurchaseAgreement,iftheTownhasnotexerciseditsbuyoutoptions,
andiftheTownwishesthatthesolarenergyfacilityberemovedasopposedtoextendingthePower
PurchaseAgreement,thenwewillscheduleadecommissioningandremovethesystemwithin150days
ofthedateofdiscontinuedoperations.Thedecommissioningshallconsistof:
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A) Physicalremovalofallsolarstructures,equipment,securitybarriersandtransmissionlinesfromthesite
B) Stabilizationorre-vegetationofthesiteasnecessarytominimizeerosionC) Therestorationofthesolarfacilitysitetothestateitwasinbeforethefacilitywasconstructed
Basedon decommissioningof pastprojects, itis reasonableto assumethatPV modulesandinverters
canbesoldforre-useataprofitandthatwire(copper)andmountinghardware(aluminumandsteel)
canberecycledforprofitaswell.TypicalsalvagevalueassignedtoPVsystemequipmentattheendof
its useful life is 10-20% of initial installed value, which more than adequately covers the cost of
decommissioning.For these reasons,and thelikelihoodthatthe solar PVgeneratingfacility willhave
manymoreyearsofusefullifeattheendofthecontractperiod,wedonotbelievethattheaddedcost
offinancialassurance,whichwouldbereflectedinahigherelectricitycosttotheTown,isnecessary.If
thesystemhasnotbeenremovedwithin150daysfollowingthedateofdiscontinuedoperations,then
theTownshallhaveauthoritytophysicallyremovethefacilityanddisposeofitatitsowndiscretion.
Decommissioningandsiterestorationwillincludedismantlingandremovalofallpanelsandsupporting
equipment, transformers, overhead and underground cables, foundations, buildings and ancillaryequipmentdowntothedepthofthelandfillcap,andremovalofsurfaceroadmaterialandrestoration
of the roads and module sites to substantially the same physical condition that existed immediately
beforeconstructionofthecommercialsolarfacility.Totheextentpossible,thesitewillberestoredand
reclaimed to the topography and topsoil quality that existed just prior to the beginning of the
constructionofthecommercialsolarenergyfacility.Disturbedearthwillbegradedandreseeded,unless
theTownrequeststhattheaccessroadsorotherlandsurfaceareasberetained.
BlueWavewelcomesdiscussiononthefateoftheprojectafterthe30-yearleaseandPPAterm.Inmost
cases projects are decommissioned as mentioned above. However, should the Town of Amherst be
interested inowning the project atthe end ofthe term, our financial partner isopento selling the
projecttotheTownatasubstantiallydiscountedmarketrate.
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3.TECHNICALDETAILS
3.1.InterconnectionBlueWave will be responsible for working with WMECO to apply for and receive interconnection
approval for each photovoltaic system we construct.Our team members have attended utility
interconnect training sessionsand seminarstoremaincurrentwith state andutility rules. PleaseseeAppendixGforacopyoftheWMECOInterconnectionApplication.
Interconnection tariffs vary by state and by individual utility; Bosch has a team of specialists for
MassachusettsthatwillworkwithWMECOandtheCommonwealthsenergyregulatorstosuccessfully
interconnect the photovoltaic system we design and install.Bosch Operations teams have attended
utilityinterconnect training sessionsand seminarsto remain currentregardingMassachusettsenergy
andutilityrules.
ThefollowingarethemilestonesoftheInterconnectionProcess:
ElectricalDesignTeamengineerswillcreateanElectricalDiagram(usuallya1-linediagram)thatsetsforthallthemajorsystemcomponentsandhowtheyaretobewiredtogethertoform
thePV system. TheElectricalDiagram alsoshows how thesystem willinterconnect withthe
powergrid.
InterconnectApplication TheOperationsManagerintheappropriatestateofficewillgeneratetheInterconnectApplication.TheInterconnectingCustomerwillhavetosigntheapplication,
andtheOperationsManagerwillsubmitthepackage,withpaymentfortheinterconnectfee
(basedonPVsystemDCwattage).
InterconnectReviewTheOperationsManagerwillfollowtheapplicationasitisreceivedandreviewed by the utilitys Distributed Generation (DG) team. The Operations Manager will
answer the utilitys questions, bringing in the Engineering team as needed for complex or
unusual interconnection situations.With many years of interconnection experience, our
OperationsManagershavedevelopedexcellentworkingrelationshipswiththeutilityDGteams,allowingfortimelyinterconnectionapprovalandquickresolutionofanytechnicalissues.
ApprovaltoConstruct OnceWMECOhascompleteditsreviewandhasfoundtheinterconnectdesigntobeacceptabletheywillissueanApprovaltoConstructletter.Withthisapprovalin
place,thephotovoltaicsystemisinstalledandinterconnectedtothelocalutility.
SystemTestOncetheoverallphotovoltaicsystemhasbeeninspectedandapprovedbythelocalinspectors(AuthorityHavingJurisdiction-AHJ),Theteamteststhesolarenergysystem
anditsDataAcquisitionSystem(DAS)toverifyproperoperationandperformance.Thistesting
followsa specific internalqualityassuranceprocedure, overseen bythe BoschQualityControl
team.
Certificate of Completion/Utility Witness Test Following local electrical approval, theOperations Manager will send WMECO a Certificate of Completion and request a utility
inspectionandwitnesstest.Autility inspectorwillcometothe siteand verifythatthesystem
has been installed per the Electrical Diagram and that the utilitys PV Disconnect Switch is
properly installed.Then the inspector will witness a system anti-islanding test, where the
invertersareisolatedfromthepowergrid,simulatingapoweroutage.Theinspectorwillverify
thatallinvertersdeactivateandreactivateinaccordancewithUL1741andIEEE1547standards.
When the inspector is satisfied that the photovoltaic system has met all WMECO safety
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requirements,he/shewilladvisetheBoschProjectManagerinformallythatthesystemmaybe
runcontinuously, interconnected to thepower grid.Boschwill then receivethe utilitys Final
Approval letter, which is the formal documentation that the PV system has passed utility
inspection.
Bosch will apply to WMECO to interconnect the project under either the Expedited or the Standard
InterconnectionProcess:
ExpeditedProcess
TheexpectedtimelinefortheExpeditedProcessisasfollows:
BoschsubmitsacompletedinterconnectionapplicationtoWMECO. Within25daysofreceiptofthecompletedapplication,WMECOwillreviewtheapplicationand
notifyBoschof anystudiesthatmustbe done beforeconstruction.If nostudies arerequired,
WMECOwillgrantBoschapprovaltoconstructthesystem.
Theentireprocesstakesamaximumof40daysunlessastudyisrequired. IfWMECOdeterminesthatastudymustbeconducted,WMECOhas20daystocompleteits
study.
Themaximumallottedtimebetweenthefilingofaninterconnectionapplicationandreceiptofapprovaltoconstructis60days.
StandardInterconnectionProcess
While,basedonpreliminarydiscussionswithWMECOofficials,BlueWaveanticipatesbeingabletotake
advantageoftheExpeditedProcess,ifWMECOdeterminesthattheprojectmeetsanyofthefollowing
circumstances,theprojectrequirestheuseoftheStandardInterconnectionProcess:
Theprojectcontributesexcessivefaultcurrent TheprojectwillnegativelyimpactWMECOsstability Theprojectexceeds7.5%ofthetotalloadontheline
TheexpectedtimelinefortheStandardInterconnectionProcessisasfollows:
Within10daysWMECOwillreviewtheapplication Within30daysascopingmeetingwillbeheldtodeterminewhatstudiesneedtobeperformed Within 55 days WMECO and BlueWave will enterinto a study agreement and complete the
requiredstudies
IfupgradestoWMECOssystemarerequired,WMECOhas30daysto determinethetypeandcostofthoseupgrades
Fromthedaytheinterconnectionapplicationisreceivedtocompletion,thetotalprocessmaytakeamaximumof150days (125daysifnoupgradesarerequired)
OnceWMECOgrantsBlueWavetheApprovaltoConstruct,thephotovoltaicsystemwillbeinstalledand
interconnected.Thelaststepsoftheinterconnectionprocessincludeaninspectionbylocalbuilding
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authorities,asystemtestconductedbymembersoftheBlueWaveteam,andanon-siteUtilityWitness
Test.
3.2.ElectricalDesignBoschhascompletedaninitialelectricaldesignforthisproject.Apreliminaryone-linediagramfortwo
ofthethreephasesofthesystemareincludedinbelowinFigure3.8.5x11scaleversionoftheone-line
diagramsareincludedinAppendixA. Boschhas consultedwithWMECO,whoadvisedthatold landfill
stationwouldbeupgradedtoRateScheduleG-2withtheadditionofthe4.75MWPVfacility.Theone
linediagramreflectsthis.
Theprojectconsistsof20,664Boschs-Si230WPVmodules.Pairsofthesemoduleswillbeconnectedin
series strings. Groups of 28 strings will be connected in parallel through combiner boxes. These
combinerboxeswillultimatelybeconnectedtooneinverterlocation.
Theinverterstationscontain2xor3xAdvancedEnergySolaron500500kWinverters,whichconvertthe
DC output of the PV modules to AC power at 480V. The inverter pair will connect in parallel to a
padmountedtransformer.Thiswillconnectinparalleltotheexistingtransformerservingthetransfer
station.
Theteamwillinstalla PowerDistributionPanel(PDP)whichwillhousedisconnectswitchesforthePV
systemandthe transfer stationallowingWMECOto safelyand reliably performmaintenanceon their
systemandthetransferstation.
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Figure3:OneLineElectricalDiagrams
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3.3.NetMeteringTheTownofAmherstsSolarEnergyProjectwillnetmeteraccordingtotheregulationssetforthinthe
DepartmentofPublicUtilitiesregulation220CMR18.00.Becausetheprojectwillbenetmetered,the
AdditionalInformationforNetMeteringApplicationwillhavetobesubmitted(seeAppendixGforthis
applicationform).BlueWaveisfamiliarwiththisprocessandforeseesnocomplicationswithobtaining
interconnectionandnetmeteringagreements.WMECOsNetMeteringRulesandTariffinformationcan
befoundinAppendicesHandI.
3.4.EquipmentSuppliers
BlueWavehaschosenhigh-qualityproductsfortheproposedsites.Foreachsystem,ourteamproposes
usingBoschSolarEnergyAGphotovoltaicmodules,AdvancedEnergyinverters,andaDECKMonitoring
datamonitoringsystem.EveryBoschSolarEnergymoduleisrigorouslytestedtoensureazeronegative-
powertolerance,andcomeswitha25-yearwarranty. AdvancedEnergyinvertersareideallysuitedforlarge commercial and utility-scale installations, featuring an industry-leading California Energy
Commission efficiency rating of 97.5%. DECK Monitoring is a leading provider of critical monitoring
servicesfor therenewableenergyindustry,enablingreal-time data tobeviewed24hoursperdayon
theDECKMonitoringwebsite.
Ourteamproposesaballastedgroundmountingsystemfortheprojectsite.Theteamplanstousethe
Schletter orHilti ballasted fixed-tiltmounting system. Thissystemavoidspenetratingthe installation
surface,whilemaintainingtheintegrityandsecurityofthearray.Manufacturerspecificationsheetsare
includedinAppendixB.
3.4.1.Modules
BoschSolarEnergysuppliesphotovoltaicmodulesbasedonhigh-efficiencymono-andmulti-crystalline
siliconsolarcellsinthesize156mmx156mm.Thesemodulesofferhighefficiencyandexcellentvalue
formoney. BoschSolarEnergyhas international acceptanceas a bankableutility-scalemodulewith
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world-classproduction facilities to deliverlarge suppliesof modules on-time. Bosch modules provide
verygoodbalancebetweencost,performance,andlongevity.
BlueWavescustomizedequipmentselectionconsideredlow-costalternativepanels,aswellashighest-
efficiencypremiumpanels.BlueWaveproposesBoschSolarAGmodulesforthefollowingreasons:
Zeronegativepowertolerance o Everymoduleisguaranteedtoproduce230watts(DC)orgreatero Mostmanufacturersoffera+/-3-5%powertolerance,whichmeansthatasystemcould
begetting3%-5%lesspoweronaverage
LargePVmanufacturerthatispartofoneofthelargestindustrialcompaniesintheworld o BoschAGis125yearoldcompanywithaworldclassbalancesheet
CommittedtoUSmarketo BoschmanufacturesitscrystallinemodulesintheUSo Boschprovidestimelytechsupport,warrantyclaims,andmodulesupply
TopTierManufacturer
o Boschmodulesaredeployedinsomeofthelargestarraysintheworldo Boschisaverticallyintegratedmanufacturercommittedtocontinuousinnovation
Industry-leadingpowerwarranty o 10-yearproductwarrantyo 25-yearperformanceguarantee(90%atyear10;85%atyear18;80%atyear25)o Provideslong-termprotectionagainstprematuredegradation
3.4.2.Inverters
The Advanced Energy Solaron photovoltaic inverters are ideally suited for utility-scale or large
commercialphotovoltaicinstallations.Inadditiontohigh-powerandhigh-efficiencytechnology,this
inverteroffersadvancedmonitoringandcontrolcapabilities.Foundedin1981,AEIcontinuallypursues
profitable positions in new markets through strategic relationships, as well as through proprietary
developmentofcoretechnologiesthatfurtherstrengthenthecompanyspositioninprocess-critical,
highlyscalable,patentedtechnologies.
AdvancedEnergyisagloballeaderininnovativepowerandcontroltechnologiesforhigh-growth,thin-
filmmanufacturing,andsolarpowergeneration.Specifically,AEItargetssolargrid-tieinverters,solar
cells, semiconductors, flat panel displays, data storage products, architectural glass, and otheradvanced product applications. AEIs product portfolio includes precise, flexible electrical power
systems,reliablegasandliquidflow-managementsystems,accuratethermalinstruments,andglobal
support services. Leveraging this focused product portfolio and technology leadership, AEI creates
solutionsaimedatmaximizingprocessimpact,improvingproductivity,andloweringcostofownership
for its customers, including original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and end users around the
world.
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AEIoperatesinregionalcentersinNorthAmerica,AsiaandEuropeandoffersglobalsalesandsupport
through direct offices, representatives, and distributors. AEIs factory in Shenzhen, China is fully
operationalandwellpositionedforcontinuousimprovementtoincreasecapabilityandcapacity.
Best-in-ClassPerformanceo 250kW,333kW,500kWat480VAC,3o Industry-leadingCECefficiencyratingof97.5%andpeakefficiencyof98.2% highestin
NorthAmerica
o Robust,transformerlessarchitecturewithbipolarPVarrayconfiguration(600V)o Polymerfilmcapacitorforhigherreliability
CompactandErgonomico Smallestfootprinto Lowestweighto Operatingtemperature:-35Cto50Co Quietoperation:79dBatonemeter
Advanced,IntegratedCommunicationso Interface:LCDdisplaywithhardandsoftlock-outso Communications:IntegratedMoxaserverwith1GBofstorageo Remoteaccess:system-integratedorthird-partycompatible
UL1741-2005;NEC690+;IEEE519/929/1547
Nearlythreedecadesofexperienceinthesolarindustry
24hoursperday,365daysperyearglobalserviceandsupport
3.4.3.MountingSystem
BlueWaveproposestheSchletterFreeField(FF)BallastedRackingSystem.Schletterisaglobal,privately
ownedcompanywithastrongreputationforqualityproductsandservices.Thisrackingsystemenables
quickassemblyofsupportingstructuresforphotovoltaicpanels.
Withonlysixmatchedcomponentsrequiredforthebasicmountingstructure,aswellaspre-assembled
connectors, Schletter mounting systems are quick and efficient to install. This mounting system is
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lightweightanddesignedforusewiththemostpopulartypesofphotovoltaicpanels.Schletterracking
systemsareadaptabletodifferentfoundationtypes,andthereforethebestchoiceforanyinstallation.
Easyinstallationonlysixcomponentsrequiredforthebasicmountingstructure
Veryeasyandfastsetupthankstouseofpre-assembledconnectors
Lightweightandcomfortabletoassemble
Intuitiveandeasytoinstallconnectionparts3.5.Operations&MaintenancePlanOperator will be responsible for Operations and Maintenance for the proposed sites. Bosch
is
successfully servingthisfunction fornumerous facilitiesat other sites aroundthe world. Photovoltaic
systemshaveverylimitedroutinemaintenancerequirements,astherearefewmovingpartstobreak,
althoughitisadvisablethatavisualinspectionoccursonanannualbasis.
Throughmonitoringandproactivemaintenanceofaphotovoltaic(PV)system,Boschcanmaximizethe
uptimeofanarray,helpavoidunexpectedoperatingandmaintenancecosts,andenablethesystemto
achievethelowestlife-cyclecost($/MWh)forsolargeneration.Withdecadesofexperienceinbuilding
and operating PV systems, Bosch has the expertise, knowledge, and trained technicians to provide
comprehensiveandfull-servicemaintenanceforPVsystems.
Maintenanceandrepairsofthefacilitycanbedonewhiletheplantisnotproducingpowerintheearly
morningand early evening. Additionally,individual sectionsof theplant canbe taken offlinefor any
otherneededrepairs,withnegligibleimpact onplantoutput. Inthe sectionsbelow, wedescribethe
fourkeyelementsofourOperationsandMaintenanceProgram:
3.5.1SolarArrayOperationsandMaintenanceProgram:
Visual inspection of arraysgeneral site conditions,PV arrays, electrical equipment, mountingstructure, fence, shading, trackers, vegetation, animal damage, erosion, corrosion, and
discoloredpanels.1xperyear VisualinspectionandcorrectionofSPSforlooseelectricalconnectionsandgroundconnections.
1xperyear
String level open circuit voltage,DC operating current tests, and I-V curve traces on 25% ofstrings.1xperyear
Switchesanddisconnectstesttoensuretheyarenotjammed.1xperyear Sensorsandmeters,includingpyranometers,anemometers,andtiltsensors:1xperyear
o Recordmeterreadingsasavailable.1xperyearo Turn off and on to ensure they are communicating and ensure battery backups are
working.1xperyear
o Exchange units with Owners spares for calibration per manufacturers instructions.Reportserialnumbersofexchangedunits.CalibrationcostsareNon-coveredServices.
Asneeded.
3.5.2.InverterOperationsandMaintenanceProgram: Servicefor2Solaroninverters:
o Replace filters, check pressure gauges (address as necessary), check MOVs, thermalimaging (address connections and hot spots), inspect DC fans (replace as necessary),
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inspectweatherstripping(replaceasnecessary),inspectACcontactor(replacepartsas
necessary),andcleanlargeheatexchangeron333kW. 1xperyear
o Clean large heat exchanger on 500 kW, replace fans, inspect small heat exchanger.Every5years
o ReplaceMOXAboxandreplaceblower.Every10years Include99%uptimeguaranteeforSolaroninverters.Specificdetailsperseparateagreementby
referenceonrequest.
Cleardebriswithin thefencedarea. Ifthisactivitybecomesexcessive, Owner andContractorwillagreeuponamethodtohavethisworkperformedasNon-coveredServices.1xperyear
Writtenservicereportwithin10days:o Include details of preventive maintenance work, such as meter readings, thermal
images,andsystemtestingresults.1xperyear
o Includenon-conformancereportstoidentifypotentialshort-termandlong-termpowerproductionissues.1xperyear
3.5.3.ServiceSupport Contractorwillmakeavailablea24x7x365TechnicalSupport.Ongoing Dispatch commitment: dispatch resources in response to alarms and alerts/service requests
receivedbyContractorfromOwner.TobebilledonT&Mbasiswhenrequestmade.
3.5.4.On-siteRequestandIssueResolution
Issueresolution:AfterBoschorsubcontractorarrivesonsiteinresponsetoarequestreceivedfrom Owner, Bosch or subcontractor will follow protocols below depending on the
circumstancescausingtherequest:
o Solaroninverterevent:repairSolaron.ThereisnochargeifSolaroninverterisunderAEwarranty.Ifoutof warranty,thenapplyT&Mfees.IssueisresolvedwhentheSolaron
inverterisavailable.Uponoccurrence
o Eventthatiscoveredbyinsurance:BoschreportssituationtoOwner.ApplyT&Mfeesfor the site visit. Issue is resolved when Bosch reports the event and diagnosis to
Owner.Uponoccurrence
o Event that Bosch is pre-authorized to repair: Examples include fuse replacement,terminal block replacement, motor replacement (up to 1.5 hp), single wire issue
betweenmoduleandcombinerbox.Boschcompletesrepairuptothedollarlimitof
stipulatedin1.2b.ApplyT&Mfees.IssueisresolvedwhenBoschcompletestherepair.
Uponoccurrence
oEvent that Bosch cannot repair without prior authorization from Owner: Examplesincludecomplexgroundwiringissues,groundfaultresolution,solarpanelreplacement,
andmajorcomponentreplacement.ApplyT&Mfeesforthesitevisit.Issueisresolved
whenBoschreportstheeventanddiagnosistoOwner. Uponoccurrence
Intheeventofanalarm,alert,orservicerequest,Boschwilldispatchresourceswithintwobusiness
days.Withinthirtydaysofperforminganymaintenanceservice,Boschwillprovidethefacilitymanager
withawrittenmaintenancereport.
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4.FINANCINGPLAN
4.1.Overview
TheBlueWaveCapitalprojectteamanditspartnershavea well-establishedfinancingtrackrecordfor
solar PV projects, with direct experience executing project finance transactions for several dozen
projectsinMassachusettsandacrossthecountry.BlueWaveCapitalwillarrangeconstructionfinancing
through Bosch Solar Energy AG, its EPC partner. Construction financing will be secured through the
Boschbalancesheet.Take-outoftheprojectwilloccurat commercialoperationandwillincludeboth
equityandlong-termdebt.
EachmemberoftheBlueWaveteamhasthenecessaryfinancialresourcestoundertaketheirrespective
obligationsunderthisproposalandtobacktheirworkwithcreditguaranteesandwarrantiesconsistent
withindustrystandards.Ifthe BlueWaveteamisselectedtoenterintonegotiationswiththeTownof
Amherst,ourteamwillengageSmartEnergyCapitalasthelong-termownerandoperatorofthesystem.
Asthelong-termowner/operatoroftheprojects,SmartEnergyCapitalwillarrangelong-termproject
financing, including both equity and debt. Financing terms and the ultimate capital structure of the
projectwilldependonprevailingmarketratesatthetimetheprojectisfinanced.
Asprivatelyheldcompanies,BlueWaveCapital,SmartEnergyCapital,andTighe&Bond,donotpublish
financialstatements.BoschSolarEnergyAG,theteamsEngineering,Procurement&Construction(EPC)
partnerisoneoftheworldslargestindustrialconglomerateswithover270,000employeesworldwide
andover$40billioninworldwidesales.TRCSolutionsisapubliclytraded(NYSE:TRR),Massachusetts
basedengineering,consultingandconstructionmanagementfirmprovidingintegratedservicestothe
energy, environmental and infrastructure markets nationwide with over 2,400 professionals and 70
offices throughout the United States. Appendix K includes a summary of Bosch AGs most recently
availablefinancialstatements.SmartEnergyCapitalhascapitalcommitmentsof$180millionfromDuke
EnergyServices andIntegrys forthe developmentof solar photovoltaic projects in theUnited States.
AppendixOcontainsaletterofinterestfromSmartEnergyCapitalforthisprojectaswellasapress
releasefromDukeEnergyServicesandIntegrysannouncingtheircapitalcommitmenttoSmartEnergy
Capital.
The Town of Amherst Solar Project, will qualify for a 30% investment tax credit from the federal
government,oranequivalentcashgrantfromtheDepartmentoftheTreasuryunderprovisionsofthe
AmericanReinvestmentandRecoveryAct(ARRA).ThiscashgrantallowstheBlueWaveCapitalteamto
assumelowercostfinancingoptionswhichwouldbereflectedinasomewhatlowerelectricitypricefor
Amherstthanassumedinthisproposal.
Anadditionalfactorthatimprovestheprojectteamsabilitytofinancetheprojectisthevalueofthe
SolarRenewableEnergyCertificates(SRECs)asdiscussedearlierinthisproposal.Bylimitingtheproject
tolessthan6MWasperDOERregulations,theprojectqualifiesforSRECs.UnderDOERregulations,a
projectoflargersizewouldreceiveClassIRenewableEnergyCredits,whichtradeatalowervalueper
kWhthanSRECsgiventheirlackofapricesupportmechanismsuchastheoneestablishedforSRECsbytheDOER.BylimitingthesizeoftheTownofAmherstprojectandsecuringSRECs,BlueWaveCapitalhas
helpedensurethefinancialviabilityoftheproject.
4.2.SubsidiesBlueWave Capital intends to utilize the following federal incentives to finance the Amherst solar
photovoltaicproject.PrivatesectorparticipationinthisprojectsignificantlybenefitsAmherst,whichby
itselfitwouldnototherwisebeabletomonetizethesetaxcreditsanddepreciationbenefits.
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FederalInvestmentTaxCredit:The creditorgrantisequalto 30%ofexpenditures,withnomaximum
creditforeligiblesolarenergyproperty, whichincludes equipmentthatusessolarenergytogenerate
electricity. The credit is available for projects completed through December 31, 2016, and may be
carried forward for 20 years if the value of the credit exceeds the entitys tax liability. BlueWaveis
certainthattheAmherstprojectwillreceivethisincentive.
Modified Accelerate Cost Recovery System MACRS Depreciation: Under the Federal ModifiedAccelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS), businesses may recover investments in certain property
through depreciation deductions. The MACRS establishes a set of class lives for various types of
property,rangingfrom3to50years,overwhichthepropertymaybedepreciated.SolarEnergySystems
areclassifiedasafive-yearpropertyundertheMACRS,andarethusfullydepreciatedforfederalincome
taxpurposeswithinfiveyearsoftheircommissioning.UnderMACRS,PVsystemsplacedinserviceafter
1986areeligibleforthedepreciationscheduleshowninTable2below.BlueWaveiscertainthatthe
projectwillreceivethisincentive.
Therecentlyenacted2010TaxActfor100%bonusdepreciationforpropertyacquiredandplacedin
service after September 8, 2010 (i.e., not the date of enactment, or next year, like you might have
expected) and before 2012, and 50% for 2012. Under this new accounting rule, if the Old Landfill
photovoltaicsystemiscompletedduringthe2011calendaryear,100%oftheassetwillbedepreciable
duringitsfirstyearofoperations.Ifthephotovoltaicsystemgoesinserviceduring2012,the50%Bonus
Depreciation rule will apply. Wehaveassumedforthisproposal that thephotovoltaicsystem willbe
commissionedduringcalendaryear2011.
Table2:MACRSDepreciationSchedule
Grantsand Rebates: Thisproposaldoesnot assumegrantfunding fortheproject becoming available.
Nevertheless,webelievethatwemaybeabletosecurecertainstateandfederalbrownfieldsfundsand
federalloanguarantees.We willmakeeveryefforttodo soand,if successful,thebenefitsof allsuch
publicsupportwillbefullypassedontoAmherstintheformoffurtherelectricitycostreductions.
4.3.IncentivePaymentsTheMassachusettsDepartmentofEnergyResources(DOER)recentlyapprovedaSolarCarve-Outthat
effectivelycreatesaSolarRenewableEnergyCertificate(SREC)marketthatbeganoperatinginJanuary
2010. This Solar Carve-Out is specificallydesigned to facilitate thedevelopment of solar photovoltaic
(PV) energy and mandates that a certain percentage of the states total electricity supply must be
providedbysolarPV.Thispercentageisdesignedtoincreaseeachyearuntil400megawatts(MW)ofPV
are installed, providing approximately 1% of the states total electricity supply. The text of
MassachusettsRenewablePortfolioStandardcanbefoundinAppendixO.
As part of this effort,the state has implementedthe MA Solar Credit Clearinghouse as a last resort,
fixed-priceauctioninthelastquarterofeachyearwithafixedpriceof$300perSREClessa5%fee,
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resultinginafloorpriceof$285.ThisestablishesafloorpriceforMassachusettsSRECsandgivesproject
ownersaminimumvaluetheycanexpectperSREC.
TheRPSSolarCarve-OutisapartofthelargerMassachusettsRenewablePortfolioStandard(RPS)that
wasestablishedinregulationsissuedbytheMassachusettsDepartmentofEnergyResources(DOER)in
2002.Theregulationsrequirethat1%ofthestateselectricitysupplycomefromnewrenewablesources
by2003.Thispercentageincreasesby0.5%eachyearuntilitreaches4%in2009.Following2009,itwillincreaseby1% each year,reaching15% by2020, andcontinuing until theDOERsuspendstheannual
increase.
Solar photovoltaic projects that have received funding from programs administered by the
MassachusettsCleanEnergyCenterorRenewableEnergyTrustpriortothestartdateoftheSolarCarve-
OutProgram(January1,2010)andthosethatreceivedsubstantialfunding(over67%oftotalinstalled
cost) from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) federal stimulus programs are not
eligibletoparticipateintheSRECprogram.
Given the early stage of development of this compliance market, there are at this point a limited
numberofsystemsthathavebeenqualifiedforparticipationintheSolarCarveOut.ThefirstSRECsin
Massachusettsweresoldduringthesecondquarterof2010.AboutonedozenSRECschangedhandsin
that first transaction. In addition, there presently is only approximately 6.5 MW of qualified solar
photovoltaiccapacitywithinthestateoutofarequired30MWbyYE2010and69MWbyYE2011.A
small fraction of those systems have been installed to date, with the majority of them being small
commercialandresidentialsystems.
TheabilitytomonetizetheseenvironmentalattributesintheformoftradableSRECsmakesitpossible
forBlueWavetooffertheTownof Amherstalong-termpowercontractat apricethatis substantially
lower than its current avoided cost of electricity. Recognizing the nascent nature of this market,
BlueWavehasmadewhatitbelievesareprudentassumptionsregardingthetradingvaluesforthese
SRECs.
Therefore, if BlueWave is able to secure SREC prices that are higher than those we are currently
assuming,wewillsharethoseincreasedprojectrevenueswiththeTownofAmherstintheformofalowerenergypriceoranannualdirectcashpayment-duringtherelevanttermoftheSRECcontract.
5.RESOURCESUPPLY
Animportantfactor indeterminingthe financial viabilityof anyrenewableenergyproject isanalyzing
and clearly understanding the solar energy resource available on site. BlueWave produced solar
resource and production estimates using PV simulation software created and maintained by the
NationalRenewableEnergyLab(NREL).TheSolarAdvisorModel(SAM)programisconfiguredtouse
meteorologicaldatafromthemostsimilarlocationintheNRELTypicalMeteorologicalYear(TMY)2or3
database. BlueWave has generated a 365-day solar resource report using SAM, a comprehensive
meteorologicalreference,incorporatingacatalogueofmeteorologicaldataandcalculationprocedures
forsolarapplicationsandsystemdesignatanydesiredlocationintheworld.Itisbasedondecadesof
research by the NREL in the development of meteorological databases for energy applications.
BlueWavesdetailedproductioncalculationsareincludedinAppendixJ.
Inordertoprovideahigherconfidenceintervalproductionforecast.However,unlikewind,thesolar
resource is much more broadly distributed, predictable, and, by definition, less susceptible to local
variability. For this reason, BlueWave does not expect meaningful deviations from our forecasted
capacityfactor,andcanproceedwithdevelopmentandcontractingonthebasisoftheSAMdata.
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RefertoFigures4and5belowtoseetheaveragesolarresourceprofileavailablefortheAmherstSolar
Project.Thesefiguresshowtheaveragesolarresourceoftheprojectsiteforeachhourofeachmonthof
thecalendaryear.ThedataisbasedonthelatestversionoftheNRELsTypicalMeteorologicalYear
model, TMY3. TheTMY3 model uses thelatest andmost comprehensive setof data available in the
NationalSolarRadiationDataBase(NSRDB).TheTMY3datasetcoversthe1991-2005period.Figure5
shows ourpreliminaryestimatesfor productionout ofourproposed facility. Ourdetailedproduction
forecastsareattac