The Challenge
The Airport hired HMMH to help it develop the project concept and prepare and submit a VALE application to the FAA.
The Strategy
HMMH worked with airport staff to identify potential locations for a solar project. The selected location was on the top deck of the airport parking garage. Based on available area, HMMH prepared a solar project concept comprised of approximately 2,200 solar panels mounted on carport canopy structures having a nameplate generating capacity of 525 kW. HMMH modeled the emissions reductions that would result from building the project and approached the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) to discuss Air Emission Reductions Credits (AERCs) that the state would issue to the airport for the project. NHDES agreed to provide a letter of assurance that it would issue AERCs to the airport. HMMH also solicited cost estimates from solar installation companies and prepared the draft project proposal to the FAA and NHDES for approval. Once approved, HMMH worked with the airport and an engineering firm to solicit bids from EPC contractors. HMMH also prepared the Form 7460 initiating FAA airspace review of the project including an assessment of potential impacts of reflectivity from the solar panels.
The Solution
Once the contractor was selected, HMMH prepared the final VALE grant application and submitted it along with the Airport Improvement Program application for funding. The grant was issued in September 2011. Project construction is expected to be completed in April 2012.
