Environmental Assessment for the Construction of a Photovoltaic Solar Array at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas
Abstract
Under Executive Orders 13514 and 13423, federal agencies are required to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2020; and the Energy Policy Act of 2005 requires agencies increase the amount of renewable energy consumed. In order to achieve these goals, agencies must ensure that at least half of the statutorily required energy comes from a renewable energy source and where feasible, implement renewable energy generation projects on agency property for agency use. The United States Air Force, in order to comply with the Executive Orders is proposing to construct a Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Array on Laughlin AFB. Currently Laughlin AFB purchases energy through Champion Electric, by purchasing the energy Laughlin AFB does not have control over the power source and therefore cannot assist the Department of Defense in meeting its required goal. The construction of the PV Solar Array would provide the installation with up to 100 percent of its required energy, allowing for Laughlin AFB to use only renewable energy. The preferred location for the PV Solar Array would be 85 acres in size and be located on an undeveloped portion within the western side of the installation. Construction of the PV Solar Array would include disturbing of soil and construction of the Array and an unmanned facility that would house inverters and batteries. An alternative location for the PV Solar Array is located at the undeveloped northeast corner of the installation. Under the No-Action Alternative, there would be no construction of the PV Solar Array. The following resources were identified for study in this Environmental Assessment: Air Quality Climate, Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Geology and Soils, Hazardous Materials/Hazardous Wastes/Solid Wastes, Land Use, Noise, Socioeconomics, Environmental Justice and the Protection of Children, Utilities/Infrastructure, and Water Resources.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA610322
Entities
People
- Ben Recker
- Bob Sculley
- Brian Howard
- Bridget Redfern
- David Morin
- Gene Moore
- Jennifer Peters
- Jim Knight
- Rick Cavada