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May 8, 2024
Z2023133
Page 1 of 5
Report to the Board of Supervisors
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
Board Hearing Date:
May 8, 2024
Case #/Title:
Case Z2023133 – Maricopa Energy Center
Supervisor District:
5
Applicant/Owner:
Maricopa Energy Center, LLC / Multiple Owners
Request:
Zone change from Rural-43, R-5, and C-2 to IND-2 IUPD
Site Location:
Generally located between I-10 to the north, 491st Avenue to the
east, Thomas Road to the south, and the 531st Avenue alignment
to the west.
Site Size:
Approximately 4,265 acres
County Island Status:
N/A
Additional
Comments:
The applicant is requesting this zone change to entitle the Maricopa
Energy Center, a phased utility-scale solar electric generating
project in the Harquahala Valley area. The project will include solar
(photovoltaic) modules and a battery energy storage system
(BESS). The Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan has
designated the site for Utilities, following BOS approval of
CPA2020002 and CPA2023011. Characteristics of this land use
designation include electric generating plants, water and
wastewater treatment facilities, and associated offices and
accessory equipment. Approval of an administrative plan of
development (POD) will be required prior to construction
permitting.
The applicant complied with the requirements of the citizen review
process. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) had
provided comments during review of CPA2023011 and has since
requested that those comments apply to the zone change as well.
Luke Air Force Base had also provided comments during review of
CPA2023011 confirming that the project would be located outside
of low-level flight corridors and therefore would not impact the
flying operations of the base. Even so, Luke requested that the
applicant submit their project narrative for an informal review
through the Department of Defense (DoD) Siting Clearinghouse for
Energy, Installations, and Environment. For the zone change, Luke
confirmed that it had no further comments provided the applicant
May 8, 2024
Z2023133
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sent the project for review with the DoD Clearinghouse. The
applicant received a response letter from the Clearinghouse
confirming that the solar project would have minimal impact on
military operations in the area. Staff received no opposition to this
case. There are no outstanding concerns from reviewing agencies.
Commission
Recommendation:
On 4/11/24, the Commission voted 6-0 to adopt a motion
recommending the Board of Supervisors approve Z2023133
subject to conditions ‘a’ – ‘k’:
a.
Except as modified by the following conditions, development of the site shall be in
substantial conformance with a revised version of the zoning exhibit entitled “Maricopa
Energy Center,” consisting of nine full-size sheets, dated March 13, 2024, and stamped
received March 14, 2024. A revised zoning exhibit that shows IUPD standards consistent
with the narrative referenced in condition ‘b’ shall be submitted within 30 days of Board
approval. Staff may determine slight refinements to remain in substantial conformance
with the approved zoning exhibit. Minor and major amendments to the zoning exhibit will
be determined in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance.
b.
Development of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the narrative report
entitled “Application for a Zone Change Project Narrative”, consisting of 13 pages, dated
March 11, 2024, and stamped received March 11, 2024, except as modified by the
following conditions.
c.
The following Planning Engineering conditions shall apply:
1.
Without the submittal of a precise plan of development, no development approval
is inferred by this review, including, but not limited to number of proposed building
lots/units, drainage design, access and roadway alignments. These items will be
addressed as development plans progress and are submitted to the County for
further review and/or entitlement.
2.
A Preliminary Grading and Drainage Plan and Drainage Report are required with
the Plan of Development. The Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO)
required that all commercial submittals be prepared by a Civil Engineer registered
in the State of Arizona. (MCZO 1205.7.2)
3.
Provide the required retention volume for the 100-year, 2-hour storm event, plus
one (1) foot of freeboard, for the developed area. Provide documentation that the
retention basin(s) will drain within 36 hours. (MCZO 1205.7.6-2.a &C)
4.
Provide a runoff coefficient based on the Table 6.3 of the Maricopa County
Drainage Policies and Standards.
5.
Historic inflow and outflow drainage locations and characteristics must be
maintained.
6.
See https://apps.pnd.maricopa.gov/plansubmittalchecklist for the most up to
date interactive Engineering Plan Review checklist. (Please be sure to check
commercial and all related grading matters so the checklist expands properly).
May 8, 2024
Z2023133
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7.
A traffic impact study must be submitted with future entitlement (POD or
Preliminary Plat) application(s).
8.
MCDOT may require dedication or preservation of rights-of-way (R/W) of the
section and mid-section alignments adjacent to or through the development site.
Contact MCDOTPlanning@maricopa.gov for more information.
9.
Private utilities that will occupy County R/W (MCDOT and Flood Control) require a
license in addition to any construction related permits. The first step in the
licensing process is to complete the attached application and email it to
MCDOTsolarlicense@maricopa.gov.
https://www.maricopa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/74250/MCDOT-
SolarLicenseApplication
10.
Portions of the site are within a FEMA Zone AO floodplain. Structures and inverter
pads within the floodplain must be elevated to the regulator flood elevation (1’
above the base flood elevation).
11.
Any work in the floodplain will require a Floodplain Use Permit issued concurrent
with building permit(s) required for site development.
12.
The subject site is not located within the County’s Urbanized Area and thus will not
require a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Permit (SWPPP) from the County. This
does NOT preclude the requirement to obtain a Notice of Intent to Discharge
(NOID) from the State (ADEQ), as may be required prior to the start of construction.
13.
There appears to be public or private irrigation facilities located on or adjacent to
this development site. Certain entities may have rights to work in or use said
facilities. There may be public or private rights associated with the historical
conveyance of water within said private irrigation facilities which Maricopa County
does not regulate. It will be the applicant’s sole responsibility to ensure the
integrity of any irrigation rights. Any disputes that may arise with the respect to
any irrigation rights are a civil matter that will not involve Maricopa County.
14.
Engineering review of re-zone cases is conceptual in nature. All development and
engineering design shall be in conformance with Section 1205 of the Maricopa
County Zoning Ordinance; Drainage Policies and Standards; Floodplain
Regulations for Maricopa County; MCDOT Roadway Design Manual; and current
engineering policies, standards and best practices at the time of application for
construction.
d.
The following IND-2 IUPD standards shall apply:
1.
Minimum setback for solar panels: 0’.
2.
Minimum setback for battery energy storage system (BESS) containers: 100’.
3.
Lot coverage: 60%, but not to include solar panels.
4.
Parking requirements: no minimum required.
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5.
Pavement requirements: stabilized decomposed granite allowed with an approved
dust control plan by Maricopa County Air Quality Control.
6.
Loading and unloading areas: none required.
7.
Site visibility triangles: not required at project site entry/exit points, section line, or
mid-section line intersecting alignments.
8.
Article 902.9.1: all utility uses permitted outdoors.
9.
Site enclosure and screening: minimum 6’ chain-link fencing and gates shall be
allowed on the perimeter of the project, except wildlife-compatible fencing shall be
allowed in areas identified in consultation with the Arizona Game and Fish
Department during review of the plan of development.
10.
Maximum height of electric transmission lines: 196’.
e.
The IUPD overlay is applied to restrict the use of the site. The IUPD shall limit the use of
the site exclusively to a solar electric generating facility and battery energy storage system
(BESS), including ancillary offices, ancillary uses, and existing agricultural uses. Any other
uses of the site shall require a zone change major amendment.
f.
The applicant or developer shall implement the best practices as recommended by the
Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) in the letter dated July 12, 2023. The Zoning
Inspector and/or their designee shall review whether these best practices are being
implemented in accordance with the letter following the issuance of relevant permits and
periodically as needed through either the inspection process or communication with
AZGFD. Should the Zoning Inspector and/or their designee decide that the owner or
developer has not substantially undertaken these best practices in good faith, the owner
or developer shall not receive final permits or certificate of occupancy until the best
practices are implemented.
g.
Administrative approval of a plan of development will be required prior to approval and
issuance of construction permits to develop and establish use of the site. Prior to approval
of a plan of development, the applicant shall submit their plan of development to Luke Air
Force Base for review. Administrative approval of this plan of development by County staff
shall be contingent upon a determination by Luke Air Force Base that no adverse impacts
to their operations will occur.
h.
Prior to issuance of a building permit, written confirmation will be required from the
emergency fire protection jurisdiction having authority that the facility has been designed
in accordance with their regulations and requirements, and that emergency fire protection
service will be provided to the facility. Prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy,
local fire protection jurisdiction review and approval will be required.
i.
In the event that the Maricopa Energy Center, in whole or in part, is constructed and ceases
operating for a period of five consecutive years or more, the owner shall be responsible
for decommissioning the non-operating portion(s) of the site and for the regrading and
restoration of the site. Decommissioning of the site shall include the removal of all
structures above and under the ground that are not a part of, or provide utility to, other
operating portions of the site. The owner shall be responsible for reporting any areas
decommissioned to County staff and either converting the site to other uses permitted in
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condition ‘e’ of Z2023133 or otherwise staff may present the zoning to the Board of
Supervisors for consideration of reversion. All decommissioning and restoration activities
will adhere to the requirements of the appropriate governing authorities, and will be in
accordance with all applicable federal, state, and Maricopa County regulations.
Decommissioning removal requirements may also be amended and the amount of time
to decommission extended, if warranted, by the Zoning Inspector and/or their designee.
The owner shall inform any future buyers/owners of this decommissioning requirement
and of their responsibility to decommission.
j.
Noncompliance with any of the conditions assigned to the approval of this zone change
by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors may be grounds for consideration of
revocation in accordance with the requirements and procedures as set forth in the
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. Further, the property owners and their successors
waive claim for diminution in value if the County takes action to rescind approval due to
noncompliance with conditions.
k.
The granting of this change in use of the property has been at the request of the applicant,
with the consent of the landowner. The granting of this approval allows the property to
enjoy uses in excess of those permitted by the zoning existing on the date of application,
subject to conditions. In the event of the failure to comply with any condition, the property
shall revert to the zoning that existed on the date of application. It is, therefore, stipulated
and agreed that either revocation due to the failure to comply with any conditions, does
not reduce any rights that existed on the date of application to use, divide, sell or possess
the property and that there would be no diminution in value of the property from the value
it held on the date of application due to such revocation of the zone change. The zone
change enhances the value of the property above its value as of the date the zone change
is granted and reverting to the prior zoning results in the same value of the property as if
the zone change had never been granted.
Presented by:
Nick Schlimm, Planner
Reviewed by:
Darren Gérard, AICP, Planning Manager
Attachment:
4/11/24 P&Z Packet (56 pages)
Note:
4/11/24 Draft P&Z Minutes are not available as of the writing of this report but can be
provided upon request later when available.
Z2023133
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Report to the Planning and Zoning Commission
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
Case:
Z2023133 – Maricopa Energy Center
Hearing Date:
April 11, 2024
Supervisor District:
5
Applicant:
Maricopa Energy Center, LLC
Owners:
Multiple Owners
Request/s:
Zone change from Rural-43, R-5, and C-2 to IND-2 IUPD
Site Location:
Generally located between I-10 to the north, 491st Avenue to the east,
Thomas Road to the south, and the 531st Avenue alignment to the west.
Site Size:
4,265 acres
Density:
N/A
County Island:
No
County Plan:
Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan – Utilities
Municipal Plan:
N/A
Municipal Comments:
None received to date
Support/Opposition:
None known
Recommendation:
Approve with conditions
Z2023133
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Project Summary:
1.
The applicant, Maricopa Energy Center, LLC, is requesting a zone change with overlay from Rural-
43, R-5, and C-2 to IND-2 IUPD to allow development of a phased utility-scale solar electric
generating project. The project will include solar (photovoltaic) modules and a battery energy
storage system (BESS). The project will have an electrical generation capacity of up to 550
megawatts of alternating current (MWac). Located in the Harquahala Valley area, the area subject
to this zone change request is approximately 4,265 acres. Two major comprehensive plan
amendments (CPA), CPA2020002 and CPA2023011, were previously approved, changing the land
use designation in the Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan from Rural
Development Area to Utilities on a combined 12,410 acres, including all 4,265 acres subject to
this zone change request.
2.
This request does not include a concurrent plan of development (POD). Approval of an
administrative POD will be required prior to construction permitting. Nonetheless, the applicant’s
narrative describes the proposed project in detail. The project is anticipated to include over
800,000 solar modules mounted on single-axis trackers, with each module rated up to 665 watts
of direct current. In addition to the installation of solar modules, the project would also include
the construction of a project substation, BESS, and an operation and maintenance (O&M) building.
These three facilities would be located toward the east end of the project site on up to 40 acres,
or less than one percent of the project area, although the precise size of these facilities is subject
to change pending review of a future POD. The project interconnect would be a single-circuit 500-
kilovolt transmission line approximately 5.2 miles long to the Arizona Public Service (APS)
Delaney Substation. The transmission line would include towers ranging in height from 153 feet
to 196 feet above grade within a maximum 200-foot right-of-way (ROW) owned by APS. Although
MCZO Article 1111.7 allows for a maximum transmission line height of 120’, transmission lines
within the APS ROW are not subject to the height regulations of the MCZO. The ROW width would
vary based on the location of the transmission line and available ROW. The design life of the
project is anticipated to be 40 years.
3.
This request includes 48 privately owned parcels. Most properties in the immediate vicinity of the
project are also privately owned. According to the narrative, site control options have been
secured for all parcels.
4.
Nearly all land used for solar energy projects is developed for large fields of solar collectors that
capture the energy through photovoltaic technology. The project area is relatively flat and allows
for the development of solar facilities with little or no additional grading. The subject parcels are
currently a combination of native desert land and agricultural land used for row crop cultivation.
A portion of the Centennial Wash is located south of the site. Additionally, the general area
includes significant local electrical infrastructure, including a power generation facility, a
substation, and a future interconnect to the APS Delaney Substation.
5.
Adjacent land uses include vacant, agricultural, industrial (utility plants), and very limited rural
residential uses. The Papago Solar Project is located nearby to the east. The Delaney Substation
and Harquahala Power Plant are also located east of the project area. The interconnect line
associated with the project will connect to the Delaney Substation.
6.
The project site would have multiple access points. The site is accessible from the east by
Camelback Road, whereas the Salome Highway runs generally along the northeast side of the
site. Harquahala Valley Road bisects the site, running north and south through the approximate
center of the site. Construction access would be primarily from the I-10 and Salome Highway
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interchange located just north of the site. It is anticipated that the project parking area would be
located adjacent to the O&M building and include up to eight parking spaces (including at least
one ADA-accessible parking space), although the precise layout of the parking area is subject to
change pending administrative review of a POD.
7.
Ingress and egress are anticipated along Harquahala Valley Road, Camelback Road, Bethany
Home Road, 499th Avenue, 491st Avenue, and Salome Highway. Interior roads are expected to be
16’ wide (conforming to IFC 2021) and accessed by 24’-wide gates. Access points to the project
would have paved aprons, whereas interior roads would be constructed of compacted aggregate
base with a stabilized decomposed granite overlay. Most of the interior roads and access points
would be used exclusively for construction and maintenance personnel accessing the solar array.
The access point for the O&M, BESS, and project substation would be located near the
intersection of Salome Highway, Camelback Road, and 491st Avenue, although the precise
location would be determined at the plan of development phase. No new roadway construction
or improvements are anticipated outside the project area.
8.
Construction of the project would likely occur in at least two phases. Phase 1 is anticipated to
begin construction in 2025 and commence service in June 2026. This phase would include
development of the O&M, BESS, substation, and gen-tie, as well as the portion of the solar array
east of Harquahala Valley Road. Phase 2 is anticipated to begin construction in 2027 and
commence service in 2028. This phase would include the remaining portions of the solar array.
The scheduling and scopes of these phases are subject to change.
9.
The applicant estimates that 300 jobs would be created during the construction period. An
estimated 300 to 500 construction vehicle trips per day would be required to construct interior
roads; transport construction workers; and import and construct solar module materials,
substation equipment, the interconnection, the BESS, and the O&M building.
10.
Currently, 47 out of 48 of the subject parcels are zoned Rural-43. This includes 4,247 acres out of
the total project area of 4,265 acres. One of the subject properties, Parcel 506-30-015F, at 18
acres, is split-zoned between R-5 on the north half and C-2 on the south half. This request would
rezone all 48 properties to a single IND-2 IUPD zoning district. The applicant is proposing to vary
the IND-2 development standards.
11.
With the IUPD, the applicant is proposing to restrict the uses allowed onsite exclusively for solar
generation, including a BESS and solar-related accessory uses. The applicant references the large
project size and lack of urban services in the area as justification. Additionally, limiting the uses
allowed onsite would also prevent impacts of more intense industrial uses on the surrounding
rural area.
12.
The applicant is requesting to allow 0’ setbacks (from front, side, and rear lot lines) for solar
panels to allow for flexibility with the future site layout to be determined during the POD process,
as well as to maximize allowance for electrical output. This request does not include other site
structures, such as BESS units and ancillary offices, which would be required to meet base IND-2
setback regulations. The applicant is also requesting to waive solar panels from the lot coverage
requirements for the same reasons.
13.
The applicant is requesting to waive parking requirements, as well as the requirement for loading
and unloading areas. Although the project is expected to include an O&M building, the applicant
is anticipating a minimal number of employees onsite after construction is completed. Per the
project narrative, the applicant intends to provide parking. Likewise, the applicant is also
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requesting to waive the requirement for onsite paving and instead allow for, at minimum,
stabilized decomposed granite to limit issues with dust for air quality purposes.
14.
For site screening, the applicant has proposed 6’ chain-link fencing with an allowance for 1’ of
barbed wire in lieu of a 6’ CMU wall abutting rural or single-family residential zoning. Additionally,
the applicant is requesting that site uses be permitted outside of an enclosed building as the
nature of the use (solar panels) requires the use to be conducted outdoors to generate energy.
15.
The applicant is also requesting to waive the requirement for site visibility triangles (SVTs) at all
project site entry/exit points, as well as at all section line and mid-section line alignments. The
MCZO specifies that 25’ x 25’ SVTs are to be provided at the property lines where all access points
are present and at the corners of properties with intersections. SVTs are unnecessary at
alignments internal to the site. Per the project narrative, SVTs would also not be necessary given
the project’s remote location. Furthermore, there would be very little vehicular ingress and egress
at the site following completion, with only periodic maintenance visits to the facility once it is
operational.
16.
The existing regulations for the IND-2 zoning district and the proposed regulations of the IND-2
IUPD zoning district are summarized below (items in bold are proposed to deviate from the base
zoning district standards).
Regulations
Base Zoning District
Regulations (IND-2)
Proposed Zoning District
Regulations (IND-2 IUPD)
Max. Height
40’
40’
Min. Front Yard Setback
10’ – 25’
10’ – 25’ (0’ for solar panels)
Min. Side Yard Setback
3’ – 10’
3’ – 10’ (0’ for solar panels)
Min. Rear Yard Setback
0’ – 25’
0’ – 25’ (0’ for solar panels)
Min. Lot Area
6,000 sq. ft.
6,000 sq. ft.
Max. Lot Coverage
60%
60% (excluding solar panels)
Parking Requirements
Per MCZO Section 1102
None required
Paving Requirements
Per MCZO Article 1102.7.1
Stabilized DG w/ MCAQC-
approved dust control plan
Loading & Unloading Areas
1 per 10,000 SF of floor area
None required
Sight Visibility Triangles
25’ x 25’
No SVTs at project site
entry/exit points, section
line, or mid-section line
intersecting alignments
Uses / Building Enclosures
All uses except parking,
loading/unloading, or storage
shall be conducted within a
completely enclosed building.
Solar arrays allowed as
outside uses
Site Enclosure & Screening
Min. 6’ CMU wall adjacent to
rural/residential
zoning
boundaries and for outdoor
use of an industrial nature
Chain-link fencing and gates
shall be allowed on the
perimeter of the project. One
foot of barbed wire atop 6’
fencing for security
Allowed Uses
Per MCZO Article 902.2
Solar electric generating
facility and BESS – including
ancillary offices and uses –
only
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2024 Aerial Map
Rural-43, R-5, C-2, and Surrounding Zoning Districts
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Existing On-Site and Adjacent Zoning / Land Use:
17.
On-site:
Rural-43, R-5, and C-2 / Vacant and agricultural
North:
Rural-43 / Vacant and agricultural
South:
Rural-43 and R1-35 / Vacant and agricultural
East:
Rural-43 / Vacant and agricultural
West:
Rural-43 / Vacant and agricultural
Utilities and Services:
18.
Water:
Private Well
Wastewater:
Septic
School Districts:
Arlington Elementary School District #47
Buckeye Union High School District #1
Fire:
Harquahala Valley Fire District
Police:
MCSO
Right-of-Way:
19.
The following table includes existing and proposed half-width right-of-way and the future
classification based upon the Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Major
Streets and Routes Plan.
Street Name
Half-width Existing R/W
Half-width Proposed R/W*
Future Classification*
491st Avenue
33’ – 55’ (varies)
55’
Minor Collector
Salome
Highway
65’
65’
Principal Arterial
Harquahala
Valley Road
55’
55’
Minor Arterial
*Required dedication and future classification of R/W is tentative, subject to change, and will be
established by MCDOT during review of a future POD.
Adopted Plan:
20.
Vision 2030 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan: The entire site (approx. 4,265 acres) is
designated as Utilities following Board of Supervisors approval of two major comprehensive plan
amendments (CPA2020002 and CPA2023011). Characteristics of this land use designation
include electric generating plants, water and wastewater treatment facilities, and associated
offices and accessory equipment. The appropriate zoning district for this land use designation is
IND-2.
Public Participation Summary:
21.
The applicant complied with the requirements of the citizen review process with the required
posting of the property and notification by first-class mail to interested parties and adjacent
property owners within 300’ of the subject site. To date, staff has received no correspondence
from the public either in support or in opposition.
22.
According to the citizen participation results report submitted by the applicant, the applicant
conducted a virtual public meeting on January 24, 2024. A public notice inviting the public attend
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was published in the Arizona Business Gazette on January 11th and 18th. The applicant and their
consultant, Wood Group USA, were in attendance to respond to comments and questions. Four
members of the public and one representative from the Arizona Game and Fish Department
(AZGFD) were in attendance. A landowner of a nearby parcel, APN 506-31-016, asked about the
purpose of the public meeting and zone change. Christopher Powers, representing the applicant,
responded by explaining why a zone change with overlay is required for the development of a
utility-scale solar project. No other questions were asked. The virtual meeting was recorded for
later viewing by interested parties and was made available on the project website the following
day.
23.
The citizen participation results report included a record of communications from members of
the public in response to the applicant’s public outreach efforts. The applicant recorded five
communications with four members of the public, including two landowners within 300’ of the
project site and two commercial interests. Correspondence from the nearby landowners included
general inquiries regarding the project as well as one citizen request for the applicant to include
his parcel in the zone change request, to which the applicant responded that the project area is
not expanding at this time. Correspondence from the commercial interests included interest in
renting construction equipment to the applicant and working with the applicant’s EPC team during
construction of the project. The applicant responded to all communications, none of which
indicated opposition to the project.
24.
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), AZGFD, the Arizona State Historic
Preservation Office (AZSHPO), and Luke Air Force Base are among the areas of interest that were
notified of the zone change request in progress by County staff. Neither ADOT nor AZSHPO have
provided comments or concerns regarding the zone change to County staff, although the
applicant notes in both the narrative and the citizen participation results report that it has been in
contact with both agencies.
25.
AZGFD provided comments during review of CPA2023011. For this zone change request, AZGFD
confirmed that it had been in communication with the applicant and their consultant to discuss
these comments, and that it had no further recommendations to make. Even so, AZGFD has
requested that its comments submitted for CPA2023011 be included with the zone change
application as well. Pursuant to this request, the referenced comments have been included in the
attachments for this case.
26.
In their comments, AZGFD recommended that the applicant conduct surveys in the project area
to determine wildlife species presence, and that these surveys be of sufficient duration and
intensity to adequately assess all habitat types and potential species occurrence in and adjacent
to the project area. AZGFD is available to consulting with the applicant to determine appropriate
surveys to conduct and design features and best management practices to implement that can
help minimize potential impacts to wildlife and habitat.
27.
AZGFD also noted that the project area falls within two identified wildlife movement pathways.
As such, AZGFD recommended options for incorporating project design features to facilitate
wildlife movement within the project area. The first recommendation was to incorporate open
unfenced wildlife movement corridors and maintain ephemeral washes in their natural state
without fencing or other barriers to wildlife movement. The second recommendation was to
conduct minimal grading in the project area and retain habitat features underneath the solar
panels, including vegetation and soils, to the extent possible. The third recommendation was for
the applicant to consult with AZGFD to determine appropriate fencing design and layout that
would achieve sufficient screening and simultaneously minimize impact on wildlife movement.
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One design feature offered was to leave a six-to-eight-inch gap between the ground surface and
the bottom of the fence to allow for smaller wildlife species to move freely and make use of any
habitat within the project area.
28.
AZGFD concluded their comments by offering general recommendations to reduce potential
impacts to wildlife and habitat during construction and operation of the facility. Among these
recommendations were to comply with Arizona Native Plant Law regulations; minimize the
introduction or spread of invasive species by washing or decontaminating equipment before
entering and leaving the site; keep trenching/digging and backfilling crews close together; use
escape ramps for animals in the event trenches or holes cannot be backfilled immediately; follow
the standards established by the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC) for new
powerlines; revegetate disturbed areas with native drought-tolerant plants; and use shielded,
narrow-spectrum lighting to minimize impacts on nocturnal animals.
29.
Luke AFB provided comments during review of CPA2023011 confirming that the project would
be located outside of low-level flight corridors and therefore would not impact the flying
operations of the base. Even so, Luke requested that the applicant submit their project narrative
for an informal review through the Department of Defense (DoD) Siting Clearinghouse for Energy,
Installations, and Environment. For this zone change request, Luke confirmed that it had no
further comments provided the applicant sent the project for review with the DoD Clearinghouse.
On February 21, 2024, the applicant received a response letter from the Clearinghouse confirming
that the solar project, as proposed, would have minimal impact on military operations in the area.
Outstanding Concerns from Reviewing Agencies:
30.
N/A
Staff Analysis:
31.
Staff supports the applicant’s request for a zone change to IND-2 with an IUPD overlay. The State
of Arizona and Maricopa County recognize the potential environmental and economic benefits
that solar technology can provide. The Maricopa Energy Center Project will use photovoltaic
technology that generates energy from sunlight absorption. Photovoltaic technology differs from
other techniques that require vast amounts of water to cool the units. By contrast, very little water
is used or needed for photovoltaic technology. As a result, this development would not create
concerns related to groundwater depletion.
32.
Staff believes the proposed solar facility is well suited to this rural area. Solar facilities require
large amounts of relatively flat land, and most of the project area is flat. Furthermore, the
proposed battery energy storage system (BESS) associated with the project would be developed
in a remote location sufficiently removed from existing residences. Staff agrees with the applicant
that the project area is suitable due to its proximity to electrical transmission lines and nearby
stations and substations. The project area is also suitable because the surrounding area is
undeveloped. Staff agrees with the applicant that the project will not detrimentally affect the
visual quality of the area. The applicant engaged in a robust and lengthy public participation
process. Additionally, the applicant corresponded with AZGFD regarding wildlife preservation.
Since the area is primarily undeveloped vacant land near other existing utility-scale solar projects,
staff believes there will be minimal impacts to the surrounding area.
33.
Promoting the development of solar energy over the past several years in Maricopa County
reinforces the County’s interest in promoting itself as an economic leader for solar development.
Z2023133
Page 9 of 13
Staff believes the Maricopa Energy Center Project would add to this effort in a positive way by
providing potentially hundreds of jobs over an approximately three-year construction window,
beginning as early as 2025. There will also be a small number of long-term employment
opportunities for Maricopa County residents.
34.
Staff notes that the applicant had originally requested for the IUPD to permit a higher maximum
transmission line height than the 120 feet allowed per MCZO Article 1111.7. At the technical
advisory committee (TAC) meeting, staff advised the applicant that, to the extent that the
transmission line towers would not be located on parcels of record, but within right-of-way
(ultimately dedicated by APS, MCDOT, FCDMC, or another agency), they would be exempt from
the regulations of the MCZO, and thus variance to Article 1111.7 with the IUPD would not be
necessary. The applicant was further advised that, at any point where a transmission line tower
would be built on a parcel of record between the project substation and the Delaney Substation,
variance would need to be obtained on each affected parcel to allow a tower to exceed 120 feet.
Conceptual plans for the project provided by the applicant suggest that the project substation
(the westernmost end of the gen-tie line) would be constructed only in the easternmost portion
of the project area, with the remainder of the gen-tie line traversing beyond the area subject to
this zone change request, hence the reason for this recommendation. However, staff recognizes
that the precise layout of the project site, as well as the gen-tie line, is subject to change until a
precise POD is administratively approved. Recognizing this and, in turn, the possibility that
transmission line towers will need to be constructed on parcels of record within the project site,
staff will allow the IUPD development standards to include a maximum transmission line height
of 196 feet.
35.
Staff also supports adding a condition to the IND-2 IUPD regulations to establish a minimum
setback of 100’ for the BESS containers. Various fire jurisdictions within Maricopa County have
established fire safety requirements that battery storage containers be set back a sufficient
distance from property lines to provide firefighters a staging and refuge area if the need were to
arise. Although the Harquahala Valley Fire District did not comment on this request, staff
nonetheless supports adding this condition. Per the applicant’s request, the minimum setback for
solar panels would be established at zero feet, whereas the base IND-2 setbacks would apply for
any other structures within the project area.
36.
Staff routed notice of this zone change request to Luke AFB, which requested that the applicant
undergo an informal review through the DoD Clearinghouse. Staff notes that the applicant
submitted to the Clearinghouse as requested and received a response confirming that the project
would have minimal impact on military operations in the area. Neither Luke nor the Clearinghouse
have requested stipulations. Even so, the IUPD overlay allows for staff to propose conditions
related to the development of the site. Staff is proposing to require that the applicant submit and
receive approval of their precise plan of development (POD) from Luke prior to approval of said
POD. Although the applicant has not submitted a POD with this zone change request,
administrative approval of a POD will be required prior to the issuance of construction permits.
County approval of this POD will be contingent upon approval by Luke AFB.
37.
Staff is also including a condition that requires the applicant to address comments to the
satisfaction of the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) at the time of construction
permitting. Staff notes that other solar developments have been required to address these issues
at that time as well. For consistency, staff is requiring the same with this request. Furthermore, in
response to these comments, staff supports allowing flexibility with site screening requirements
of the IND-2 IUPD zoning district to better enable implementation of wildlife-compatible fencing.
Z2023133
Page 10 of 13
The specific design and location of this fencing may be identified in consultation with AZGFD
during review of the POD.
38.
Staff is also including a condition related to decommissioning the site due to concerns regarding
end-of-cycle removal. The decommissioning condition will require that the landowner(s) be made
aware of the responsibility for the removal of the structures from above and below the ground
once the solar farm has ceased operating permanently and for the restoration of the site.
Recommendation:
39.
Staff recommends the Commission adopt a motion recommending that the Board of Supervisors
approve Z2023133 subject to the following conditions ‘a’ – ‘k’:
a.
Except as modified by the following conditions, development of the site shall be in
substantial conformance with a revised version of the zoning exhibit entitled “Maricopa
Energy Center,” consisting of nine full-size sheets, dated March 13, 2024, and stamped
received March 14, 2024. A revised zoning exhibit that shows IUPD standards consistent
with the narrative referenced in condition ‘b’ shall be submitted within 30 days of Board
approval. Staff may determine slight refinements to remain in substantial conformance
with the approved zoning exhibit. Minor and major amendments to the zoning exhibit will
be determined in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance.
b.
Development of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the narrative report
entitled “Application for a Zone Change Project Narrative”, consisting of 13 pages, dated
March 11, 2024, and stamped received March 11, 2024, except as modified by the
following conditions.
c.
The following Planning Engineering conditions shall apply:
1.
Without the submittal of a precise plan of development, no development approval
is inferred by this review, including, but not limited to number of proposed building
lots/units, drainage design, access and roadway alignments. These items will be
addressed as development plans progress and are submitted to the County for
further review and/or entitlement.
2.
A Preliminary Grading and Drainage Plan and Drainage Report are required with
the Plan of Development. The Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO)
required that all commercial submittals be prepared by a Civil Engineer registered
in the State of Arizona. (MCZO 1205.7.2)
3.
Provide the required retention volume for the 100-year, 2-hour storm event, plus
one (1) foot of freeboard, for the developed area. Provide documentation that the
retention basin(s) will drain within 36 hours. (MCZO 1205.7.6-2.a &C)
4.
Provide a runoff coefficient based on the Table 6.3 of the Maricopa County
Drainage Policies and Standards.
5.
Historic inflow and outflow drainage locations and characteristics must be
maintained.
Z2023133
Page 11 of 13
6.
See https://apps.pnd.maricopa.gov/plansubmittalchecklist for the most up to
date interactive Engineering Plan Review checklist. (Please be sure to check
commercial and all related grading matters so the checklist expands properly).
7.
A traffic impact study must be submitted with future entitlement (POD or
Preliminary Plat) application(s).
8.
MCDOT may require dedication or preservation of rights-of-way (R/W) of the
section and mid-section alignments adjacent to or through the development site.
Contact MCDOTPlanning@maricopa.gov for more information.
9.
Private utilities that will occupy County R/W (MCDOT and Flood Control) require a
license in addition to any construction related permits. The first step in the
licensing process is to complete the attached application and email it to
MCDOTsolarlicense@maricopa.gov.
https://www.maricopa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/74250/MCDOT-SolarLicense-
Application
10.
Portions of the site are within a FEMA Zone AO floodplain. Structures and inverter
pads within the floodplain must be elevated to the regulator flood elevation (1’
above the base flood elevation).
11.
Any work in the floodplain will require a Floodplain Use Permit issued concurrent
with building permit(s) required for site development.
12.
The subject site is not located within the County’s Urbanized Area and thus will not
require a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Permit (SWPPP) from the County. This
does NOT preclude the requirement to obtain a Notice of Intent to Discharge
(NOID) from the State (ADEQ), as may be required prior to the start of construction.
13.
There appears to be public or private irrigation facilities located on or adjacent to
this development site. Certain entities may have rights to work in or use said
facilities. There may be public or private rights associated with the historical
conveyance of water within said private irrigation facilities which Maricopa County
does not regulate. It will be the applicant’s sole responsibility to ensure the
integrity of any irrigation rights. Any disputes that may arise with the respect to
any irrigation rights are a civil matter that will not involve Maricopa County.
14.
Engineering review of re-zone cases is conceptual in nature. All development and
engineering design shall be in conformance with Section 1205 of the Maricopa
County Zoning Ordinance; Drainage Policies and Standards; Floodplain
Regulations for Maricopa County; MCDOT Roadway Design Manual; and current
engineering policies, standards and best practices at the time of application for
construction.
d.
The following IND-2 IUPD standards shall apply:
1.
Minimum setback for solar panels: 0’.
2.
Minimum setback for battery energy storage system (BESS) containers: 100’.
Z2023133
Page 12 of 13
3.
Lot coverage: 60%, but not to include solar panels.
4.
Parking requirements: no minimum required.
5.
Pavement requirements: stabilized decomposed granite allowed with an approved
dust control plan by Maricopa County Air Quality Control.
6.
Loading and unloading areas: none required.
7.
Site visibility triangles: not required at project site entry/exit points, section line, or
mid-section line intersecting alignments.
8.
Article 902.9.1: all utility uses permitted outdoors.
9.
Site enclosure and screening: minimum 6’ chain-link fencing and gates shall be
allowed on the perimeter of the project, except wildlife-compatible fencing shall be
allowed in areas identified in consultation with the Arizona Game and Fish
Department during review of the plan of development.
10.
Maximum height of electric transmission lines: 196’.
e.
The IUPD overlay is applied to restrict the use of the site. The IUPD shall limit the use of
the site exclusively to a solar electric generating facility and battery energy storage system
(BESS), including ancillary offices, ancillary uses, and existing agricultural uses. Any other
uses of the site shall require a zone change major amendment.
f.
The applicant or developer shall implement the best practices as recommended by the
Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) in the letter dated July 12, 2023. The Zoning
Inspector and/or their designee shall review whether these best practices are being
implemented in accordance with the letter following the issuance of relevant permits and
periodically as needed through either the inspection process or communication with
AZGFD. Should the Zoning Inspector and/or their designee decide that the owner or
developer has not substantially undertaken these best practices in good faith, the owner
or developer shall not receive final permits or certificate of occupancy until the best
practices are implemented.
g.
Administrative approval of a plan of development will be required prior to approval and
issuance of construction permits to develop and establish use of the site. Prior to approval
of a plan of development, the applicant shall submit their plan of development to Luke Air
Force Base for review. Administrative approval of this plan of development by County staff
shall be contingent upon a determination by Luke Air Force Base that no adverse impacts
to their operations will occur.
h.
Prior to issuance of a building permit, written confirmation will be required from the
emergency fire protection jurisdiction having authority that the facility has been designed
in accordance with their regulations and requirements, and that emergency fire protection
service will be provided to the facility. Prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy,
local fire protection jurisdiction review and approval will be required.
Z2023133
Page 13 of 13
i.
In the event that the Maricopa Energy Center, in whole or in part, is constructed and ceases
operating for a period of five consecutive years or more, the owner shall be responsible
for decommissioning the non-operating portion(s) of the site and for the regrading and
restoration of the site. Decommissioning of the site shall include the removal of all
structures above and under the ground that are not a part of, or provide utility to, other
operating portions of the site. The owner shall be responsible for reporting any areas
decommissioned to County staff and either converting the site to other uses permitted in
condition ‘e’ of Z2023133 or otherwise staff may present the zoning to the Board of
Supervisors for consideration of reversion. All decommissioning and restoration activities
will adhere to the requirements of the appropriate governing authorities, and will be in
accordance with all applicable federal, state, and Maricopa County regulations.
Decommissioning removal requirements may also be amended and the amount of time
to decommission extended, if warranted, by the Zoning Inspector and/or their designee.
The owner shall inform any future buyers/owners of this decommissioning requirement
and of their responsibility to decommission.
j.
Noncompliance with any of the conditions assigned to the approval of this zone change
by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors may be grounds for consideration of
revocation in accordance with the requirements and procedures as set forth in the
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. Further, the property owners and their successors
waive claim for diminution in value if the County takes action to rescind approval due to
noncompliance with conditions.
k.
The granting of this change in use of the property has been at the request of the applicant,
with the consent of the landowner. The granting of this approval allows the property to
enjoy uses in excess of those permitted by the zoning existing on the date of application,
subject to conditions. In the event of the failure to comply with any condition, the property
shall revert to the zoning that existed on the date of application. It is, therefore, stipulated
and agreed that either revocation due to the failure to comply with any conditions, does
not reduce any rights that existed on the date of application to use, divide, sell or possess
the property and that there would be no diminution in value of the property from the value
it held on the date of application due to such revocation of the zone change. The zone
change enhances the value of the property above its value as of the date the zone change
is granted and reverting to the prior zoning results in the same value of the property as if
the zone change had never been granted.
Presented by:
Nick Schlimm, Planner
Reviewed by:
Matthew Holm, AICP, Planning Supervisor
Attachments:
Case Map (1 page)
Zoning Exhibit (9 pages)
Narrative Report (16 pages)
MCESD comments (1 page)
DPR comments (3 pages)
AZGFD Comments and Applicant Responses (8 pages)
Luke AFB Comments (4 pages)
DoD Clearinghouse Comments (1 page)
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PROJECT
COUNTY
SHEET NUMBER
PAPER SIZE
CONFIDENTIAL & PROPRIETARY
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
DATE
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DRAWING TITLE
422 ADMIRAL BLVD.
KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
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THIS COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND
PROPRIETARY TO SAVION, LLC. ANY UNAUTHORIZED
USE, COPYING, PHOTOGRAPHING OR PUBLICATION OF
THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND SHALL BE
RETURNED TO SAID COMPANY OR DESTROYED.
LAYOUT
ANSI B (11.00 X 17.00 Inches)
MARICOPA ENERGY CENTER
MARICOPA
ARIZONA
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C:\Users\lpelino\OneDrive - Savion, LLC\Documents\AZ Maricopa County\Exhibits\Preliminary Site Plan\2024-03-12 Zoning Exhibit\AZ Maricopa - Zoning Exhibit.dwg
DATE
REV
BY
CHK
REVISION DESCRIPTION
HARQUAHALA VALLEY RD
COURTHOUSE RD
CENTENNIAL RD
10
PAPAGO FWY
W SALOME RD
HARQUAHALA
W SALOME RD
MARICOPA ENERGY CENTER
CASE/TRACKING NO. Z2023133
AQUEDUCT
10
HAYDEN
RHODES
VICINITY MAP
NTS
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
BEGINNING AT THE NORTH QUARTER CORNER OF SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE
9 WEST OF THE GILA AND SALT RIVER BASE AND MERIDIAN, MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA.
THENCE ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 9, S89°20'49"E, 2643.33 FEET TO THE
NORTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 10, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 10, S89°12'14"E, 2661.79 FEET;
THENCE CONTINUING S89°19'44"E, 2567.30 FEET TO A POINT 55.00 FEET FROM NORTHEAST
CORNER OF SAID SECTION 10;
THENCE LEAVING SAID NORTH LINE S00°41'16"W, 2639.10 FEET;
THENCE S00°41'28"W, 2639.57 FEET TO A POINT 55.00 FEET FROM NORTHEAST CORNER OF
SECTION 15, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE S00°39'56"W, 2642.46 FEET;
THENCE S00°40'11"W, 2641.57 FEET TO A POINT 55.00 FEET FROM NORTHEAST CORNER OF
SAID SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE S00°37'29"W, 2639.82 FEET;
THENCE S00°38'02"W, 2638.90 FEET TO A POINT 55.00 FEET FROM NORTHEAST CORNER OF
SECTION 27, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE S00°40'08"W, 2643.69 FEET;
THENCE S00°41'36"W, 1321.10 FEET;
THENCE N89°19'24"W, 2588.58 FEET;
THENCE N00°40'15"E, 3961.30 FEET TO NORTH QUARTER CORNER OF SAID SECTION 27;
THENCE ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 27, S89°24'06"E, 1983.09 FEET;
THENCE LEAVING SAID NORTH LINE, N00°38'40"E, 1319.60 FEET;
THENCE N00°39'18"E, 1320.11 FEET;
THENCE N89°23'14"W, 660.67 FEET;
THENCE N89°23'15"W, 1321.02 FEET;
THENCE N00°40'59"E, 2640.97 FEET TO THE NORTH QUARTER CORNER OF SECTION 22,
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE ALONG NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 22, N89°20'07"W, 2641.38 FEET TO THE
NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 21, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE S00°39'55"W, 2641.30 FEET;
THENCE S00°40'40"W, 2640.72 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 21;
THENCE ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 21, N89°16'40"W, 2639.11 FEET TO THE
SOUTH QUARTER CORNER;
THENCE LEAVING SAID SOUTH LINE, N00°38'51"E, 5281.72 FEET TO THE SOUTH QUARTER
CORNER OF SECTION 16, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 16, N89°17'29"W, 1317.50 FEET;
THENCE LEAVING SAID SOUTH LINE, N00°33'47"E, 1320.90 FEET;
THENCE N89°18'49"W, 1319.89 FEET TO A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 16;
THENCE ALONG SAID WEST LINE, N00°40'31"E, 1320.28 FEET;
THENCE LEAVING SAID WEST LINE, S89°20'38"E, 2640.02 FEET;
THENCE S89°20'34"E, 2645.20 FEET TO THE WEST QUARTER CORNER OF SAID SECTION 15,
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE S89°17'40"E, 2636.33 FEET;
THENCE N00°39'04"E, 2640.89 FEET TO THE SOUTH QUARTER CORNER OF SECTION 10,
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE ALONG SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 10, N89°19'45"W, 2640.71 FEET TO THE
SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE ALONG SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 9, N89°16'51"W, 2639.56 FEET TO THE SOUTH
QUARTER CORNER;
THENCE CONTINUING SAID SOUTH LINE, N89°16'47"W, 180.00 FEET;
THENCE LEAVING SAID SOUTH LINE, N02°29'26"E, 5283.97 FEET TO THE NORTH LINE OF
SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE ALONG SAID NORTH LINE S89°11'07"E, 7.50 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
CONTAINING 107,543,422.62 SQUARE FEET OR 2,468.86 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.
PROJECT OWNER & DEVELOPER
SAVION, LLC
422 ADMIRAL BOULEVARD
KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
ENGINEER
WOOD
17325 PARK ROW
HOUSTON, TX 77084
SITE DATA
PROJECT SITE
GROSS AREA: 4,278± ACRES
GROSS AREA: THE SUM OF ALL ACREAGE WITHIN PARCELS SUBJECT TO THIS
REQUEST
NET AREA: 4,069± ACRES
NET AREA: GROSS AREA LESS ANY PROPOSED RIGHTS-OF-WAY DEDICATION
EXISTING ZONING: RURAL-43; R-5; C-2
EXISTING LAND USE: AGRICULTURE, VACANT, OPEN SPACE
PROPOSED ZONING: IND2 W/ IUPD OVERLAY
PROPOSED LAND USE: UTILITIES
SCHOOL DISTRICT
ARLINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT 47 &
BUCKEYE SCHOOL DISTRICT
REQUEST
ZONE CHANGE FROM RURAL-43, R-5 AND C-2 TO IND2 W/ IUPD OVERLAY
UTILITIES
WATER
PRIVATE WELL
WASTE WATER
PRIVATE SEPTIC
FIRE PROTECTION
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FIRE DISTRICT
POLICE
MARICOPA COUNTY SHERIFF
ELECTRIC
APS
TELEPHONE
QWEST
REFUSE PROVIDER
ALLIED WASTE
INDEX OF DRAWINGS
SHT 1
COVER SHEET, DRAWING INDEX & VICINITY MAP
SHT 2
BOUNDARY & EASEMENT EXHIBIT
SHT 3
N HARQUAHALA VALLEY ROAD EASEMENT EXHIBIT
SHT 4
W SALOME HIGHWAY EASEMENT EXHIBIT
SHT 5
W SALOME HIGHWAY, N 491ST AVENUE & W CAMELBACK ROAD
EASEMENT EXHIBIT
SHT 6
PARTICIPATING PROPERTY EXHIBIT
SHT 7
ZONING EXHIBIT
SHT 8
ZONING EXHIBIT
SHT 9
ZONING EXHIBIT
PROJECT SITE
W CAMELBACK RD
COVER SHEET, DRAWING INDEX
& VICINITY MAP
S89°20'49"E
2643.33'
S89°12'14"E
2661.79'
S89°19'44"E
2567.30'
S00°37'29"W
2639.82'
S00°38'02"W
2638.90'
S00°41'36"W
1321.10'
S00°40'08"W
2643.69'
N89°19'24"W
2588.58'
N00°40'15"E
3961.30'
S89°24'06"E
1983.09'
N00°38'40"E
1319.60'
N00°39'18"E
1320.11'
N89°23'14"W
660.67'
N89°23'15"W
1321.02'
N00°40'59"E
2640.97'
N89°20'07"W
2641.38'
S00°39'55"W
2641.30'
S00°40'40"W
2640.72'
N89°16'40"W
2639.11'
N00°38'51"E
5281.72'
N89°17'29"W
1317.50'
N00°33'47"E
1320.90'
N89°18'49"W
1319.89'
N00°40'31"E
1320.28'
S89°20'38"E
2640.02'
S89°20'34"E
2645.20'
S89°17'40"E
2636.33'
N00°39'04"E
2640.89'
N89°19'45"W
2640.71'
N89°16'51"W
2639.56'
N00°39'38"E
2640.03'
N89°27'21"W
2645.65'
N00°41'04"E
2640.45'
N89°26'19"W
2613.70'
N00°41'50"E
660.62'
S89°25'55"E
1290.27'
S89°25'58"E
1323.27'
S89°25'55"E
1290.27'
N00°41'04"E
1981.01'
S89°19'02"E
5227.55'
S00°40'11"W
2641.54'
S00°39'56"W
2642.40'
S00°41'28"W
2639.59'
S00°41'16"W
2639.14'
N89°21'03"W
2543.26'
S00°41'50"W
1321.21'
N89°25'37"W
661.60'
S89°24'56"E
661.53'
N00°41'50"E
330.30'
S89°23'57"E
639.13'
S00°37'39"W
330.42'
S89°23'18"E
1959.80'
S89°23'09"E
2639.69'
N89°21'43"W
660.00'
N00°34'40"E
659.94'
N89°21'28"W
1847.62'
S44°00'08"E
2632.29'
N44°00'08"W
2892.61'
S89°25'33"E
735.51'
S00°34'48"W
2606.57'
N89°24'42"W
735.51'
N00°34'48"E
2606.39'
S89°24'56"E
1323.05'
N00°41'04"E
2640.82'
S89°26'19"E
330.76'
S00°41'04"W
2640.95'
S89°24'56"E
992.29'
N89°17'37"W
355.51'
S89°11'07"E
7.50'
N00°34'48"E
1979.54'
S00°41'39"W
1321.08'
N59°11'56"W
2679.66'
N59°13'34"W
1098.21'
N59°12'43"W
1394.47'
N89°16'47"W
180.00'
N02°29'26"E
5283.97'
S00°34'40"W
185.22'
N89°16'42"W
315.81'
PROJECT
COUNTY
SHEET NUMBER
PAPER SIZE
CONFIDENTIAL & PROPRIETARY
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
DATE
STATE
DRAWING TITLE
422 ADMIRAL BLVD.
KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
Sheet of
3/13/2024
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THIS COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND
PROPRIETARY TO SAVION, LLC. ANY UNAUTHORIZED
USE, COPYING, PHOTOGRAPHING OR PUBLICATION OF
THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND SHALL BE
RETURNED TO SAID COMPANY OR DESTROYED.
LAYOUT
ANSI B (11.00 X 17.00 Inches)
BOUNDARY & EASEMENT EXHIBIT
MARICOPA ENERGY CENTER
MARICOPA
ARIZONA
2
9
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REVISION DESCRIPTION
ALSO, COMMENCING AT NORTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH,
RANGE 9 WEST OF THE GILA AND SALT RIVER BEND AND MERIDIAN, MARICOPA COUNTY,
ARIZONA; THENCE S89°17'37"E, 55.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING ;
THENCE S00°41'16"W, 2639.14 FEET;
THENCE S00°41'28"W, 2639.59 FEET TO A POINT 55.00 FEET FROM THE NORTHWEST
CORNER OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE S00°39'56"W, 2642.40 FEET;
THENCE S00°40'11"W, 2641.54 FEET TO A POINT 55.00 FEET FROM THE SOUTHWEST
CORNER OF SAID SECTION 14;
THENCE ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 14, S89°19'02"E, 5227.55 FEET TO THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE CONTINUING ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 13, S89°24'56"E, 1325.05
FEET;
THENCE LEAVING SAID SOUTH LINE, N00°41'04"E, 2640.82 FEET;
THENCE S89°26'19"E, 330.76 FEET;
THENCE S00°41'04"W, 2640.95 FEET TO THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 13;
THENCE ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 13, S89°24'56"E, 992.29 TO THE SOUTH
QUARTER CORNER;
THENCE LEAVING SAID SOUTH LINE, N00°41'04"E, 1981.01 FEET;
THENCE S89°25'58"E, 1323.27 FEET;
THENCE S89°25'55"E, 1290.27 FEET;
THENCE N00°41'50"E, 660.62 FEET;
THENCE N89°26'19"W, 2613.70 FEET;
THENCE N00°41'04"E, 2640.45 FEET TO NORTH QUARTER OF SAID SECTION 13;
THENCE ALONG NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 13, N89°27'21"W, 2645.65 FEET TO THE
SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE LEAVING SAID NORTH LINE, N00°39'38"E, 2640.03 FEET TO A POINT ON THE EAST
LINE OF SAID SECTION 11;
THENCE LEAVING SAID EAST LINE, N89°16'42"W, 315.81 FEET;
THENCE N59°11'56"W, 2679.66 FEET;
THENCE N59°13'34"E, 1098.21 FEET;
THENCE N59°12'43"E, 1394.47 FEET TO A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 11;
THENCE N89°17'37"W, 355.51 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
CONTAINING 63,197,546.02 SQUARE FEET OR 1,450.82 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.
ALSO, COMMENCING AT NORTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 18, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH,
RANGE 8 WEST OF THE GILA AND SALT RIVER BEND AND MERIDIAN, MARICOPA COUNTY,
ARIZONA; THENCE S00°41'45"W, 2647.91 FEET TO THE WEST QUARTER OF SAID SECTION 18,
ALSO BEING THE POINT OF BEGINNING;
THENCE CONTINUING SAID WEST LINE, S00°41'50"W, 1321.21 FEET;
THENCE LEAVING SAID WEST LINE, N89°25'37"W, 661.60 FEET;
THENCE S00°41'39"W, 1321.08 FEET TO A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 13,
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST;
THENCE ALONG SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 13, S89°24'56"E, 661.53 FEET TO THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 18, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST;
THENCE ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 18, N00°41'50"E, 330.30 FEET;
THENCE S89°23'57"E, 639.13 FEET;
THENCE S00°37'39"W, 330.42 FEET TO A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 18;
THENCE CONTINUING ON SAID SOUTH LINE, S89°23'18"E, 1959.80 FEET;
THENCE S89°23'09"E, 2639.69 FEET TO A POINT ON THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 18;
THENCE LEAVING SAID SOUTH LINE AND ALONG EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 18,
N00°34'48"E, 1979.54 FEET;
THENCE LEAVING SAID EAST LINE, N89°21'43"W, 660.00 FEET;
THENCE N00°34'40"E, 659.94 FEET;
THENCE N89°21'28"W, 1847.62 FEET;
THENCE S44°00'08"E, 2632.29 FEET;
THENCE S00°34'40"W, 185.22 FEET;
THENCE N44°00'08"W, 2892.61 FEET;
CONTINUATION LEGAL DESCRIPTION
THENCE N89°21'03"W, 2543.26 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
CONTAINING 13,696,274.06 SQUARE FEET OR 314.42 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.
ALSO, COMMENCING AT NORTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 17, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH,
RANGE 8 WEST OF THE GILA AND SALT RIVER BEND AND MERIDIAN, MARICOPA COUNTY,
ARIZONA; THENCE ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 17, S00°34'51"W, 2639.40 FEET;
THENCE LEAVING THE WEST LINE, S89°25'33"E, 33.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING;
THENCE S89°25'33"E, 735.51 FEET;
THENCE S00°34'48"W, 2606.57 FEET;
THENCE N89°24'42"W, 735.51 FEET;
THENCE N00°34'48"E, 2606.39 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
CONTAINING 1,917,091.83 SQUARE FEET OR 44.01 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.
SEC 9
SEC 10
SEC 11
SEC 16
SEC 15
SEC 14
SEC 13
SEC 18
SEC 21
SEC 22
SEC 23
SEC 24
SEC 19
SEC 27
SEC 26
SEC 25
SEC 17
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST
2
1
9
9
EASEMENTS
1
EASEMENT FOR HIGHWAY PURPOSES DOC 2002-0808291 (ITEM 154) (BET/N I-10 & 491ST
AVE) (130' FULL-WIDTH); (EAST OF 491ST AVE) (33' HALF-WIDTH NORTH OF CENTERLINE, 65'
HALF-WIDTH SOUTH OF CENTERLINE)
2
RESERVED R/W DOC 20190476223-00-0391597 & 20190476223-00-0391605 (110' FULL-WIDTH)
3
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W DOC 2002-0060009 (130' FULL-WIDTH)
4
RESERVED R/W DOC 20190476223-00-0576870 (130' FULL-WIDTH)
5
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W DOC 2002-0060009 (65' HALF-WIDTH WEST OF CENTERLINE)
6
RESERVED R/W DOC 85-331322 (WIDTH VARIES)
7
INGRESS/EGRESS AND PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT DOC 2003-1725717 (30' & 20'
FULL-WIDTH)
8
BOOSTER FACILITY EASEMENT DOC 2019-310056 & DOC 2019-466804
9
RESERVED R/W DOC NO 90-509459 (130' FULL-WIDTH)
10
EASEMENT FOR HIGHWAY DOCKET 7697 (NORTH OF SALOME HWY) (33' HALF-WIDTH EAST
OF CENTERLINE, 55' HALF-WIDTH ON WEST SIDE OF CENTERLINE ADJACENT APN
506-30-015F)
N HAQUAHALA VALLEY RD
W CAMELBACK RD
W SALOME HWY
N 507TH AVE
527TH AVE
523RD AVE
GLENDALE AVE
N 499TH AVE
N 491ST AVE
11
10
12
3
3
3
PROPOSED PROJECT BOUNDARY
EASEMENT/RIGHT-OF-WAY
LEGEND
FUTURE ROAD RESERVATION (SEE NOTE 4 ON SHEETS 4 TO 6)
OTHER PROPOSED EASEMENT DEDICATION
PARCEL LINE
CONT. LEGAL DESCRIPTION
2
4
3
5
3
6
6
7
8
7
EASEMENTS
11
EASEMENT FOR HIGHWAY DOCKET 4863, PG 136 (ADJACENT APN
506-30-015F) (55' HALF-WIDTH NORTH OF CENTERLINE)
12
MCDOT TO ACQUIRE RIGHT-OF-WAY (THROUGH 506-30-015F)
ALONG SALOME HIGHWAY.
1
65.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
130.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
65.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
130.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
55.0'
RESERVED R/W
55.0'
RESERVED R/W
130.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
55.0'
RESERVED R/W
55.0'
RESERVED R/W
130.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
55.0'
RESERVED R/W
55.0'
RESERVED R/W
130.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
130.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
110.0'
HIGHWAY EASEMENT
65.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
65.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
130.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
65.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
130.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
130.0'
NON-EXCLUSIVE R/W
PROJECT
COUNTY
SHEET NUMBER
PAPER SIZE
CONFIDENTIAL & PROPRIETARY
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
DATE
STATE
DRAWING TITLE
422 ADMIRAL BLVD.
KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
Sheet of
3/13/2024
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THIS COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND
PROPRIETARY TO SAVION, LLC. ANY UNAUTHORIZED
USE, COPYING, PHOTOGRAPHING OR PUBLICATION OF
THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND SHALL BE
RETURNED TO SAID COMPANY OR DESTROYED.
LAYOUT
ANSI B (11.00 X 17.00 Inches)
MARICOPA ENERGY CENTER
MARICOPA
ARIZONA
3
9
C:\Users\lpelino\OneDrive - Savion, LLC\Documents\AZ Maricopa County\Exhibits\Preliminary Site Plan\2024-03-12 Zoning Exhibit\AZ Maricopa - Zoning Exhibit.dwg
DATE
REV
BY
CHK
REVISION DESCRIPTION
N HAQUAHALA VALLEY RD
W SALOME HWY
GLENDALE AVE
N
0'
1:800'
400'
800'
1600'
PARTICIPATING PARCEL
ADJACENT (NON-PARTICIPATING) PARCEL
LEGEND
EASEMENT/RIGHT-OF-WAY
SECTION LINE
506-18-010A
506-18-032D
506-18-009A
506-18-011A
506-18-034A
506-18-026A
506-18-025D
506-18-026B
506-18-035D
506-18-035C
MATCH LINE SEE RIGHT
MATCH LINE SEE LEFT
506-18-026A
506-18-026B
506-18-035C
506-18-036B
506-23-006A
506-23-006B
NAP
506-23-006C
506-23-010B
506-23-010A
NAP
NAP
NAP
N HAQUAHALA VALLEY RD
MATCH LINE SEE LEFT
MATCH LINE SEE RIGHT
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
506-23-010B
506-23-010A
506-23-041
506-22-048
N HAQUAHALA VALLEY RD
W HARQUALA VALLEY ROAD
EASEMENT EXHIBIT
130.0'
HIGHWAY EASEMENT
PROJECT
COUNTY
SHEET NUMBER
PAPER SIZE
CONFIDENTIAL & PROPRIETARY
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
DATE
STATE
DRAWING TITLE
422 ADMIRAL BLVD.
KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
Sheet of
3/13/2024
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THIS COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND
PROPRIETARY TO SAVION, LLC. ANY UNAUTHORIZED
USE, COPYING, PHOTOGRAPHING OR PUBLICATION OF
THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND SHALL BE
RETURNED TO SAID COMPANY OR DESTROYED.
LAYOUT
ANSI B (11.00 X 17.00 Inches)
MARICOPA ENERGY CENTER
MARICOPA
ARIZONA
4
9
C:\Users\lpelino\OneDrive - Savion, LLC\Documents\AZ Maricopa County\Exhibits\Preliminary Site Plan\2024-03-12 Zoning Exhibit\AZ Maricopa - Zoning Exhibit.dwg
DATE
REV
BY
CHK
REVISION DESCRIPTION
N HAQUAHALA VALLEY RD
W SALOME HWY
GLENDALE AVE
N
0'
1:800'
400'
800'
1600'
PARTICIPATING PARCEL
ADJACENT (NON-PARTICIPATING) PARCEL
LEGEND
EASEMENT/RIGHT-OF-WAY
SECTION LINE
506-18-010A
506-18-032D
506-18-009A
506-18-011A
506-18-034A
MATCH LINE SEE SHEET 5 OF 9
W SALOME HIGHWAY
EASEMENT EXHIBIT
N 507TH AVE
506-18-029E
506-18-030C
NAP
130.0'
HIGHWAY EASEMENT
33.0'
HIGHWAY
EASEMENT
130.0'
MCDOT TO ACQUIRE
RIGHT-OF-WAY
33.0'
HIGHWAY EASEMENT
55.0'
HIGHWAY
EASEMENT
130.0'
RESERVED R/W
65.0'
RESERVED R/W
55.0'
HIGHWAY EASEMENT
PROJECT
COUNTY
SHEET NUMBER
PAPER SIZE
CONFIDENTIAL & PROPRIETARY
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
DATE
STATE
DRAWING TITLE
422 ADMIRAL BLVD.
KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
Sheet of
3/13/2024
1
2
3
4
5
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THIS COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND
PROPRIETARY TO SAVION, LLC. ANY UNAUTHORIZED
USE, COPYING, PHOTOGRAPHING OR PUBLICATION OF
THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND SHALL BE
RETURNED TO SAID COMPANY OR DESTROYED.
LAYOUT
ANSI B (11.00 X 17.00 Inches)
MARICOPA ENERGY CENTER
MARICOPA
ARIZONA
5
9
C:\Users\lpelino\OneDrive - Savion, LLC\Documents\AZ Maricopa County\Exhibits\Preliminary Site Plan\2024-03-12 Zoning Exhibit\AZ Maricopa - Zoning Exhibit.dwg
DATE
REV
BY
CHK
REVISION DESCRIPTION
W SALOME HWY
N
0'
1:800'
400'
800'
1600'
PARTICIPATING PARCEL
ADJACENT (NON-PARTICIPATING) PARCEL
LEGEND
EASEMENT/RIGHT-OF-WAY
SECTION LINE
506-18-022K
506-18-024A
W CAMELBACK RD
N 499TH AVE
N 491ST AVE
W SALOME HIGHWAY, N 491ST AVENUE &
W CAMELBACK RD EASEMENT EXHIBIT
506-30-015G
MATCH LINE SEE SHEET 4 OF 9
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
506-30-015J
NAP
NAP
506-18-022J
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
NAP
W SALOME HWY
506-30-015F
506-30-027C
506-30-027A
506-30-027B
506-30-002Z
506-30-015H
ID
PARCEL NO.
OWNER
ZONING
LAND USE
17
506-18-024A
MARICOPA ENERGY CENTER LLC
RU-43
VACANT
18
506-18-025D
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
19
506-18-026A
FERGUSON GRANDCHILDREN LLC
RU-43
VACANT
20
506-18-026B
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
21
506-18-027
CLARKE LLC
RU-43
VACANT
22
506-18-028A
GYP HARQUAHALA HOLDINGS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
23
506-18-029E
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
24
506-18-030C
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
25
506-18-030D
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
26
506-18-032D
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
27
506-18-034A
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
28
506-18-035C
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
29
506-18-035D
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
30
506-18-036B
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
31
506-22-048
VGS7 INDIAN SCHOOL/HV RD 237 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
32
506-22-049
VGS7 INDIAN SCHOOL/HV RD 237 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
33
506-23-001
VGS12 CAMELBACK/523 320 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
34
506-23-006A
KATARIA 515/CAMELBACK 78 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
35
506-23-006B
JR INVESTMENTS 9 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
36
506-23-006C
JR INVESTMENTS 9 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
37
506-23-010A
VGS13 HARQUAHALA VALLEY/INDIAN SCHOOL 35 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
38
506-23-010B
VGS13 HARQUAHALA VALLEY/INDIAN SCHOOL 35 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
39
506-23-010C
VGS13 HARQUAHALA VALLEY/INDIAN SCHOOL 35 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
40
506-23-041
VGS7 INDIAN SCHOOL/HV RD 237 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
41
506-30-002Z
VERMA ROHIT
RU-43
VACANT
42
506-30-015F
LEE JOSEPH W
R-5/C-2
VACANT
43
506-30-015G
PIOVANO JILL A TR/SALOME 282 LLC
RU-43
VACANT
44
506-30-015H
PIOVANO JILL A TR/SALOME 282 LLC
RU-43/C-2
VACANT
45
506-30-015J
PIOVANO JILL A TR/SALOME 282 LLC
RU-43/C-2
VACANT
46
506-30-027A
VERMA ROHIT
RU-43
VACANT
47
506-30-027B
VERMA SURINDER P/SARAL K TR
RU-43
VACANT
48
506-30-027C
VERMA SURINDER P/SARAL K TR
RU-43
VACANT
ID
PARCEL NO.
OWNER
ZONING
LAND USE
1
506-18-007
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
2
506-18-008E
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
3
506-18-009A
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
4
506-18-010A
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
5
506-18-011A
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
6
506-18-012
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
7
506-18-013
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
8
506-18-014
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
9
506-18-015
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
AGRICULTURE
10
506-18-019A
MFG HOLDING LLC
RU-43
VACANT
11
506-18-019C
MFG HOLDING LLC
RU-43
VACANT
12
506-18-020A
FERGUSON GRANDCHILDREN LLC
RU-43
VACANT
13
506-18-020B
HARQUAHALA VALLEY FARMS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
14
506-18-022J
CLB PARTNERS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
15
506-18-022K
CLB PARTNERS LLC
RU-43
VACANT
16
506-18-023
MFG HOLDING LLC
RU-43
VACANT
PROJECT
COUNTY
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FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
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KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
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THIS COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND
PROPRIETARY TO SAVION, LLC. ANY UNAUTHORIZED
USE, COPYING, PHOTOGRAPHING OR PUBLICATION OF
THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND SHALL BE
RETURNED TO SAID COMPANY OR DESTROYED.
LAYOUT
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N HAQUAHALA VALLEY RD
W CAMELBACK RD
W SALOME HWY
N 507TH AVE
527TH AVE
523RD AVE
GLENDALE AVE
N 499TH AVE
N 491ST AVE
N
0'
1:3200'
1600'
3200'
6400'
36
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VACANT STATE TRUST
VACANT
STATE TRUST
VACANT
STATE TRUST
PARTICIPATING PARCEL
ADJACENT (NON-PARTICIPATING) PARCEL
LEGEND
THOMAS RD
483RD AVE
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SECTION LINE
SEC 9
SEC 10
SEC 11
SEC 16
SEC 15
SEC 14
SEC 13
SEC 18
SEC 21
SEC 22
SEC 23
SEC 24
SEC 19
SEC 20
SEC 28
SEC 27
SEC 26
SEC 25
SEC 30
SEC 29
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST
W SALOME HWY
FEMA ZONE "A"
2643.33'
1911.79'
5283.97'
5281.45'
180.00'
2639.56'
2642.25'
2640.71'
2640.91'
2651.25'
2642.25'
2661.79'
2637.81'
655.58'
1319.07'
1915.21'
1915.21'
1322.07'
1979.44'
1315.79'
1261.93'
995.36'
1320.36'
270.00'
1979.68'
2636.33'
5285.22'
1324.62'
1312.47'
1312.39'
1317.50'
2641.31'
2645.79'
2641.38'
2643.91'
2640.89'
662.43'
270.00'
4621.69'
2314.19'
1320.45'
2315.51'
1320.52'
1981.69'
270.00'
1319.97'
5282.02'
5281.72'
1319.89'
269.99'
662.40'
2639.59'
1030.00'
1559.15'
2587.81'
2641.61'
2324.52'
315.82'
2640.03'
2640.43'
2679.66'
1347.18'
2587.64'
2639.14'
1319.23'
660.06'
1980.17'
4621.63'
376.64'
1304.43'
724.00'
651.00'
614.00'
2639.25'
2587.61'
2640.62'
2639.66'
2645.65'
1323.05'
330.76'
330.76'
2641.51'
5227.55'
335.18'
260.00'
1319.93'
2639.19'
2639.00'
2638.83'
2638.90'
10.00'
355.51'
1320.14'
1323.05'
1320.41'
1320.41'
1320.14'
1323.05'
2640.95'
2641.08'
330.76'
N
PROJECT
COUNTY
SHEET NUMBER
PAPER SIZE
CONFIDENTIAL & PROPRIETARY
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
DATE
STATE
DRAWING TITLE
422 ADMIRAL BLVD.
KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
Sheet of
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THIS COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND
PROPRIETARY TO SAVION, LLC. ANY UNAUTHORIZED
USE, COPYING, PHOTOGRAPHING OR PUBLICATION OF
THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND SHALL BE
RETURNED TO SAID COMPANY OR DESTROYED.
LAYOUT
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ZONING EXHIBIT
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0'
1:1600'
800'
1600'
3200'
MATCH LINE SEE SHEET 8 OF 9
MATCH LINE SEE SHEET 9 OF 9
PROPOSED PROJECT BOUNDARY
ADJACENT (NON-PARTICIPATING) PARCEL
EASEMENT/RIGHT-OF-WAY
LEGEND
FEMA FLOOD PLAIN BOUNDARY
NOTES
1.
THE APPLICANT CONTINUES TO WORK WITH ADOT AND MCDOT ON ROAD
IMPROVEMENTS RELATED TO COUNTY AND STATE MAINTAINED ROADS. IT IS
ANTICIPATED THAT SOME LEVEL OF ROAD IMPROVEMENT ALONG SALOME HIGHWAY
WOULD BE REQUESTED BY ADOT AND MCDOT.
2.
SALOME HIGHWAY EAST OF I-10 INTERCHANGE WILL HAVE A DEDICATED SETBACK OF
65 FEET. SALOME HIGHWAY WEST OF I-10 INTERCHANGE WILL HAVE A PRESERVED
SETBACK OF 55 FEET.
3.
HARQUAHALA VALLEY ROAD WILL HAVE A 55-FOOT DEDICATED SETBACK ON BOTH
SIDES OF THE SECTION LINE FOR A TOTAL OF 110 FEET.
4.
ALL SECTION AND MIDSECTION THAT FALL ON THE PERIMETER OF THE PROJECT WILL
HAVE DEDICATED SETBACKS OF 55 AND 40 FEET RESPECTIVELY.
5.
A TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY/TRAFFIC IMPACT ANALYSIS WOULD BE COMPLETED FOR
THE PROJECT TO DETERMINE ADDITIONAL OFFSITE IMPROVEMENTS.
6.
THE REDLETTER@AZDOT.GOV PROCESS WILL BE UTILIZED DUE TO THE PROJECTS
PROXIMITY TO I-10.
7.
UTILITIES OR UNDERGROUND FACILITIES RIGHTS-OF-WAY OR EASEMENTS WILL BE
CONSIDERED IN THE FINAL POD.
8.
THE APPLICANT CONTINUES TO WORK WITH ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT.
IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT WILDLIFE FRIENDLY FENCING WILL BE INCORPORATED INTO
THE FINAL POD.
9.
THE APPLICANT HAS CONSULTED WITH LUKE AFB AND ON JULY 21, 2023 THEY
DETERMINED THAT THE PROJECT IS OUTSIDE OF ANY AREAS OF CONCERN AND THAT
THEY HAVE NO REQUIRED STIPULATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROJECT.
10. PARKING/PAVING MATERIAL ALLOWED TO BE STABILIZED DECOMPOSED GRANITE
WITH AN APPROVED DUST CONTROL PLAN BY MARICOPA COUNTY AIR QUALITY
CONTROL.
SEC 9
SEC 10
SEC 11
SEC 16
SEC 15
N HAQUAHALA VALLEY RD
527TH AVE
523RD AVE
SEC 14
N 507TH AVE
W CAMELBACK RD
W SALOME HWY
SECTION LINES
SHEET 9
SHEET 8
SHEET 7
KEY MAP
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST
FUTURE ROAD RESERVATIONS (SEE NOTE 4)
OTHER PROPOSED EASEMENT DEDICATION
SEC 21
SEC 22
SEC 23
PARTICIPATING PARCEL
FEMA ZONE "AO"
2639.11'
1983.00'
336.01'
259.90'
2643.69'
1267.13'
1322.09'
2659.54'
1301.76'
1321.79'
1311.63'
1266.79'
1321.10'
10.00'
N
PROJECT
COUNTY
SHEET NUMBER
PAPER SIZE
CONFIDENTIAL & PROPRIETARY
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
DATE
STATE
DRAWING TITLE
422 ADMIRAL BLVD.
KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
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THIS COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND
PROPRIETARY TO SAVION, LLC. ANY UNAUTHORIZED
USE, COPYING, PHOTOGRAPHING OR PUBLICATION OF
THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND SHALL BE
RETURNED TO SAID COMPANY OR DESTROYED.
LAYOUT
ANSI B (11.00 X 17.00 Inches)
ZONING EXHIBIT
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0'
1:1600'
800'
1600'
3200'
N HAQUAHALA VALLEY RD
MATCH LINE SEE SHEET 7 OF 9
SEC 27
SEC 28
SEC 26
NOTES
1.
THE APPLICANT CONTINUES TO WORK WITH ADOT AND MCDOT ON ROAD
IMPROVEMENTS RELATED TO COUNTY AND STATE MAINTAINED ROADS. IT IS
ANTICIPATED THAT SOME LEVEL OF ROAD IMPROVEMENT ALONG SALOME HIGHWAY
WOULD BE REQUESTED BY ADOT AND MCDOT.
2.
SALOME HIGHWAY EAST OF I-10 INTERCHANGE WILL HAVE A DEDICATED SETBACK OF
65 FEET. SALOME HIGHWAY WEST OF I-10 INTERCHANGE WILL HAVE A PRESERVED
SETBACK OF 55 FEET.
3.
HARQUAHALA VALLEY ROAD WILL HAVE A 55-FOOT DEDICATED SETBACK ON BOTH
SIDES OF THE SECTION LINE FOR A TOTAL OF 110 FEET.
4.
ALL SECTION AND MIDSECTION THAT FALL ON THE PERIMETER OF THE PROJECT WILL
HAVE DEDICATED SETBACKS OF 55 AND 40 FEET RESPECTIVELY.
5.
A TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY/TRAFFIC IMPACT ANALYSIS WOULD BE COMPLETED FOR
THE PROJECT TO DETERMINE ADDITIONAL OFFSITE IMPROVEMENTS.
6.
THE REDLETTER@AZDOT.GOV PROCESS WILL BE UTILIZED DUE TO THE PROJECTS
PROXIMITY TO I-10.
7.
UTILITIES OR UNDERGROUND FACILITIES RIGHTS-OF-WAY OR EASEMENTS WILL BE
CONSIDERED IN THE FINAL POD.
8.
THE APPLICANT CONTINUES TO WORK WITH ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT.
IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT WILDLIFE FRIENDLY FENCING WILL BE INCORPORATED INTO
THE FINAL POD.
9.
THE APPLICANT HAS CONSULTED WITH LUKE AFB AND ON JULY 21, 2023 THEY
DETERMINED THAT THE PROJECT IS OUTSIDE OF ANY AREAS OF CONCERN AND THAT
THEY HAVE NO REQUIRED STIPULATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROJECT.
10. PARKING/PAVING MATERIAL ALLOWED TO BE STABILIZED DECOMPOSED GRANITE
WITH AN APPROVED DUST CONTROL PLAN BY MARICOPA COUNTY AIR QUALITY
CONTROL.
SHEET 9
SHEET 7
KEY MAP
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST
SHEET 8
PROPOSED PROJECT BOUNDARY
ADJACENT (NON-PARTICIPATING) PARCEL
EASEMENT/RIGHT-OF-WAY
LEGEND
FEMA FLOOD PLAIN BOUNDARY
SECTION LINES
FUTURE ROAD RESERVATIONS (SEE NOTE 4)
OTHER PROPOSED EASEMENT DEDICATION
PARTICIPATING PARCEL
FEMA ZONE "A"
2640.45'
661.53'
661.53'
1981.01'
660.34'
1323.27'
1323.35'
1290.31'
1290.27'
660.62'
661.60'
1321.08'
990.91'
330.30'
661.53'
639.13'
330.42'
3939.57'
1321.21'
2035.45'
660.00'
507.66'
216.26'
506.86'
660.00'
2676.55'
1847.63'
659.94'
660.00'
581.71'
552.95'
659.97'
1319.69'
1270.38'
735.51'
735.51'
1270.51'
716.70'
716.66'
735.51'
309.67'
309.74'
735.51'
309.61'
309.62'
735.51'
185.42'
659.92'
659.85'
2632.51'
N
PROJECT
COUNTY
SHEET NUMBER
PAPER SIZE
CONFIDENTIAL & PROPRIETARY
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
DATE
STATE
DRAWING TITLE
422 ADMIRAL BLVD.
KANSAS CITY, MO 64106
Sheet of
3/13/2024
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THIS COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL IS CONFIDENTIAL AND
PROPRIETARY TO SAVION, LLC. ANY UNAUTHORIZED
USE, COPYING, PHOTOGRAPHING OR PUBLICATION OF
THIS MATERIAL IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND SHALL BE
RETURNED TO SAID COMPANY OR DESTROYED.
LAYOUT
ANSI B (11.00 X 17.00 Inches)
ZONING EXHIBIT
MARICOPA ENERGY CENTER
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REVISION DESCRIPTION
0'
1:1600'
800'
1600'
3200'
MATCH LINE SEE SHEET 7 OF 9
SEC 17
N 499TH AVE
SEC 18
SEC 19
SEC 20
SEC 21
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST
SEC 24
SEC 13
W CAMELBACK RD
W CAMELBACK RD
W SALOME HWY
N 491ST AVE
483RD AVE
NOTES
1.
THE APPLICANT CONTINUES TO WORK WITH ADOT AND MCDOT ON ROAD
IMPROVEMENTS RELATED TO COUNTY AND STATE MAINTAINED ROADS. IT IS
ANTICIPATED THAT SOME LEVEL OF ROAD IMPROVEMENT ALONG SALOME HIGHWAY
WOULD BE REQUESTED BY ADOT AND MCDOT.
2.
SALOME HIGHWAY EAST OF I-10 INTERCHANGE WILL HAVE A DEDICATED SETBACK OF
65 FEET. SALOME HIGHWAY WEST OF I-10 INTERCHANGE WILL HAVE A PRESERVED
SETBACK OF 55 FEET.
3.
HARQUAHALA VALLEY ROAD WILL HAVE A 55-FOOT DEDICATED SETBACK ON BOTH
SIDES OF THE SECTION LINE FOR A TOTAL OF 110 FEET.
4.
ALL SECTION AND MIDSECTION THAT FALL ON THE PERIMETER OF THE PROJECT WILL
HAVE DEDICATED SETBACKS OF 55 AND 40 FEET RESPECTIVELY.
5.
A TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY/TRAFFIC IMPACT ANALYSIS WOULD BE COMPLETED FOR
THE PROJECT TO DETERMINE ADDITIONAL OFFSITE IMPROVEMENTS.
6.
THE REDLETTER@AZDOT.GOV PROCESS WILL BE UTILIZED DUE TO THE PROJECTS
PROXIMITY TO I-10.
7.
UTILITIES OR UNDERGROUND FACILITIES RIGHTS-OF-WAY OR EASEMENTS WILL BE
CONSIDERED IN THE FINAL POD.
8.
THE APPLICANT CONTINUES TO WORK WITH ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT.
IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT WILDLIFE FRIENDLY FENCING WILL BE INCORPORATED INTO
THE FINAL POD.
9.
THE APPLICANT HAS CONSULTED WITH LUKE AFB AND ON JULY 21, 2023 THEY
DETERMINED THAT THE PROJECT IS OUTSIDE OF ANY AREAS OF CONCERN AND THAT
THEY HAVE NO REQUIRED STIPULATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROJECT.
10. PARKING/PAVING MATERIAL ALLOWED TO BE STABILIZED DECOMPOSED GRANITE
WITH AN APPROVED DUST CONTROL PLAN BY MARICOPA COUNTY AIR QUALITY
CONTROL.
SHEET 8
SHEET 7
KEY MAP
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST
TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 9 WEST
SHEET 9
PROPOSED PROJECT BOUNDARY
ADJACENT (NON-PARTICIPATING) PARCEL
EASEMENT/RIGHT-OF-WAY
LEGEND
FEMA FLOOD PLAIN BOUNDARY
SECTION LINES
FUTURE ROAD RESERVATIONS (SEE NOTE 4)
OTHER PROPOSED EASEMENT DEDICATION
PARTICIPATING PARCEL
Application for a
Zone Change
Project Narrative
Maricopa Energy Center Project – Case # Z2023133
Harquahala Valley, Maricopa County, Arizona
Submitted to:
Maricopa County
Planning and Development Department
Submitted by:
Maricopa Energy Center, LLC
422 Admiral Boulevard
Kansas City, MO 64106
Prepared by:
Wood Group USA, Inc.
3415 Greystone Drive, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78731
Date:
March 11, 2024
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page ii
Table of Contents
1.0
PURPOSE OF REQUEST ............................................................................................ 1
1.1
Description of Proposal ....................................................................................... 1
1.2
Relationship to Surrounding Properties ........................................................... 3
1.3
Location and Accessibility ................................................................................... 4
1.4
Circulation System ............................................................................................... 5
1.5
Development Schedule and Methods ................................................................ 5
1.6
Community Facilities and Services ..................................................................... 6
1.7
Public Utilities and Services ................................................................................ 7
1.8
Development Standards Comparison Chart ..................................................... 8
1.9
Compliance with the Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan & Consistency
with Agency Management Objectives .......................................................................... 12
APPENDIX A: DRAFT SITE LAYOUT............................................................................... 17
APPENDIX B: AZ GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT RESPONSES TO
RECOMMENDATIONS ..................................................................................................... 26
APPENDIX C: LUKE AIR FORCE BASE RESPONSE LETTER TO MARICOPA COUNTY
& DOD CLEARINGHOUSE RESPONSE LETTER...............................................................29
List of Tables
Table 1: Project Land Use Change Proposal Phases .......................................................................................... 1
Table 2: Project Summary ............................................................................................................................................ 2
Table 3: Public Service and Utility Providers ......................................................................................................... 7
Table 4: IND-2 Industrial Unit Plan of Development (IUPD) Table ............................................................... 8
List of Figures
Figure 1: Base Map ...................................................................................................................................................... 14
Figure 2: Conceptual Site Plan ................................................................................................................................ 15
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page iii
Abbreviations and Acronyms
Abbreviation or Acronym
Definition
ACC
Arizona Corporation Commission
ADOT
Arizona Department of Transportation
APS
Arizona Public Service
AZGFD
Arizona Game and Fish Department
AZ SHPO
Arizona State Historic Preservation Office
BESS
battery energy storage system
CEC
Certificate of Environmental Compatibility
CPA
Comprehensive Plan Amendment
IUPD
Industrial Unit Plan of Development
LAFB
Luke Air Force Base
MCDOT
Maricopa County Department of Transportation
MCPA
Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment
MEC
Maricopa Energy Center, LLC
MWac
megawatts of alternating current
County Plan
Vision 2030, the Maricopa County Comprehensive
Plan
Project
Maricopa Energy Center Project
ROW
right-of-way
USACE
United States Army Corps of Engineers
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 1
1.0
Purpose of Request
This report addresses the information required to submit an Application for a Zone Change for the
Maricopa Energy Center Project (the Project). Maricopa Energy Center, LLC (MEC), as the Applicant, is
proposing the construction and operation of an electrical generation facility consisting of photovoltaic
(PV) solar modules and a battery energy storage system (BESS), collectively referred to as the Project. The
expected maximum net output would be up to 550 megawatts of alternating current (MWac). The Project
would be located on up to 4,265 acres of private land in the Harquahala Valley west of Tonopah, which is
an unincorporated area of Maricopa County (County), Arizona; see Figure 1, Appendix A.
This request is for a 4,265-acre zone change with overlay from RU-43, R-5, and C-2 to IND-2 Industrial
Unit Plan of Development (IUPD). The Project includes 4,247 acres of land zoned as RU-43, 9 acres zoned
as R-5, and 9 acres zoned as C-2. The portions zoned as R-5 and C-2 are located northwest of the
intersection of Camelback Road and Salome Highway.
This application for a zone change includes previously approved parcels for two Major Comprehensive
Plan Amendments (MCPAs). Table 1 describes previous and current land designations for Phases 1 and 2
of the Project.
Table 1: Project Land Use Change Proposal Phases
Land Use
Change
Proposals
Description
Size
(acres)
MCPA Phase 1
–approved in
2020
CPA2020002 – the original Project size was approximately 11,260 acres for
which an MCPA was approved by the County in 2020. Since that time, the
Project’s Phase 1 area has been reduced in size to approximately 3,115
acres.
3,115
MCPA Phase 2
– approved in
2023
CPA2023011 – Phase 2, approved by the County in December 2023.
1,150
Zone Change
– requested in
this application
Retained parcels from CPA2020002 and CPA2023011.
2023 Zone Change with Overlay – includes portions of MCPA Phases 1
and 2 (Figure 2, Appendix A).
4,265
1.1
Description of Proposal
The Project would include up to 827,067 solar modules, rated at up to 665 watts direct current (dc) per
module, and mounted on single-axis trackers. It should be noted that watts per module may vary at the
time of construction; however, an approximate module output of 665 watts dc is included for planning
purposes. In addition to the installation of solar modules, the Project would include the construction of a
Project substation, BESS, and operation and maintenance (O&M) building that would include a connection
to an adjacent septic system. The Project interconnect, via a single circuit 500 kilovolt (kV) transmission
line approximately 5.2 miles long, would be located at the Arizona Public Service (APS) Delaney
Maricopa Energy Center Project
March 11, 2024
Page 2
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
Substation, east of the Project site. The Project substation, BESS, and O&M building would be located on
up to 40 acres within the Project site (30 acres for the O&M/BESS and 6 acres for the Project substation
with 4 acres as contingency). The Project interconnect would be a 500-kilovolt (kV) transmission line on
153- to 196-feet structures above grade within a maximum 200-foot right-of-way (ROW). The ROW width
would vary based on the location of the transmission line and available ROW. The expected maximum net
output from the combined solar modules and BESS is up to 550 Mwac. The design life of the Project is
anticipated to be 40 years.
The Project site is situated in a prime location within the regional electric grid and in a relatively remote
area suited for renewable energy development. Anticipated benefits of the Project include:
•
Compatibility with existing land uses – existing electrical transmission corridors and electrical
substations are located near the MEC site, and land uses within the MEC site include agriculture
and undeveloped lands.
•
Compatibility with approved land uses – multiple CPAs have been approved for solar projects on
or near the Project site, and two recent CPAs to the east of the Project site were followed up by a
zone change request (from Rural-43 to IND-2).
•
Low cost, clean renewable energy to the electrical grid.
•
Emission-free, solar electrical energy to the electrical grid.
•
Job creation (described in section 1.6).
Table 2 summarizes items listed in the application Description of Proposal submittal checklist.
Table 2: Project Summary
Requirement
Description
Requested Use
Solar and BESS Electrical Generation Facility
Business Operations (hours/day
of operation and number of
employees/customers)
The Project would operate year-round. A Supervisory Control and
Data Acquisition (SCADA) system would be used to monitor the
facility. Once operational, the Project site will require minimal staff
(2 to 3 personnel per 8-hour shift with 24-hour round the clock
staffing), resulting in infrequent vehicle trips to and from the site.
Maintenance activities include occasional security checks,
addressing maintenance issues, quarterly panel-washing activities,
as well as emergency repairs. There will be no public access.
Building Descriptions/Locations
(screening, fence details, and
location)
The Project would include the construction of a Project substation,
BESS, O&M building, and other ancillary facilities. The proposed
location of the O&M building, BESS, and substation would be north
of Salome Highway and both east and west of 491st Avenue. The
Project will be enclosed by a 6-foot high, chain-link fence around
the perimeter of the site. The gate to the facility will be 24-feet wide
and locked, and a Knox box will be provided for emergency access.
Type of Construction Material
The Project O&M building will be a prefabricated building made
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 3
Requirement
Description
using a combination of timber, steel, and fiberglass on a concrete
pad. Steel shipping containers on concrete pads will house the
batteries that make up the BESS. The PV solar panels will be
mounted on steel racking systems attached to steel piles.
Color palette
The color palette of the Project O&M building and other structures
will be neutral and intended to blend into the surrounding area.
Site Dimensions/Boundaries
The Project O&M building will be approximately 5,000 square
feet; the BESS will occupy up to 30 acres; the substation will
occupy 6 acres; the Project gen-tie structures may be up to 196
feet high; and spaced approximately 1,000 feet apart; Voltage
wiring trenches will be 2-feet wide by 18 to 24 inches deep.
Signs
A Project sign will be placed at the main entrance to indicate the
entrance to Maricopa Energy Center.
Landscape/Retention Areas
No landscaping is proposed per IUPD table. See Appendix A for
stormwater retention basins.
Outdoor Lighting
Permanent, outdoor, night lighting will be installed at the BESS,
O&M building, and the Project switchyard. Amber lighting will be
fixed to buildings and other structural supports, where required, or
on ground-mounted poles approximately 25 to 35 feet high. Some
portable lighting may be required for maintenance activities that
must be performed at night.
Water Features
Portions of the Project in T2N/R9W Sections 21 and 27 occupy
Flood Zone AO. At this time, the Applicant is not proposing to
construct inside any floodplain.
Irregular Site Features
There are no steep slopes across the Project site. There are multiple,
narrow, farming canals throughout the Project site.
Food Services
No food operation services will be provided on site.
Average lot area per dwelling
unit
No dwelling units are being proposed.
1.2
Relationship to Surrounding Properties
The Project is located approximately 12 miles west of Tonopah, in Maricopa County, on approximately
4,265 acres of land. The Project is generally bounded by Interstate 10 (I-10) to the north, 491st Avenue to
the east, Thomas Road to the south, and a point approximately 2 miles west of Harquahala Valley Road to
the west. A small portion of the Project area (approximately 44 acres), including the O&M, BESS, and
substation, will be just east of 491st Ave.see Figure 1, Appendix A. Generally, the center of the Project is
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 4
located at the intersection of Camelback Road and Harquahala Valley Road. The point of interconnection
would be at the APS Delaney Substation. This zone change request is for the entire Project site consisting
of multiple parcels of land within the following townships (T), ranges (R), and sections:
•
T2N/R9W: Sections 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, and 27
•
T2N/R8W: Sections 17 and 18
The Applicant has secured site-control options for all parcels included within the Project boundary. A list
of all parcels within the Project boundary is provided as an attachment to the application form.
The Project site is situated on privately held land in unincorporated Maricopa County northwest of Saddle
Mountain, south of the Big Horn Mountains Wilderness area, and northeast of the Eagletail Mountains
Wilderness area. The Harquahala Valley Irrigation District (HVID) canal runs along the northeastern
boundary of the site within less than 0.5 mile. Topographically, the site slopes slightly to the south toward
Centennial Wash. Elevations within the site range between approximately 1,219 and 1,147 feet above
mean sea level. The Project site is generally divided between irrigated row-crop cultivation and native
desert. The Project site and surrounding lands are within the Rural-43 Zoning District (RU-43) within
Maricopa County which allows for both farm and non-farm residential uses as well as farms and
recreational and/or institutional uses. In addition, the site includes nine acres of land zoned as
Intermediate Commercial Zoning District (C-2), as well as nine acres of land zoned as Limited Multiple
Family Residential Zoning District (R-5).
Portions of Sections 21 and 27 in T2N/R9W occupy Flood Zone AO, which is characterized by sheet flow
between 1 and 3 feet. A Floodplain Use Permit (FUP) is required to build in a Zone AO. It is anticipated
that the Project would require a FUP from Maricopa County Flood Control District.
The Project will benefit the community by creating temporary construction jobs, and long-term
maintenance and monitoring staff positions. The solar array will generate much needed power for
Arizona, some of which will be stored in the BESS and released to the grid as consumption peaks, adding
capacity at critical times. Furthermore, MEC will be a source of tax revenue to the County and a quiet
neighbor to landowners in the Harquahala Valley.
The impact to surrounding properties and landowners (visual, noise, dust generation, etc.) will be minimal
post-construction. During construction impacts will be minimized by applying water to disturbed areas to
reduce fugitive dust, work will only take place during daytime hours, and the Project will be developed in
phases so that the entire project area is not under construction at once. It is worth noting that the Project
area is primarily agricultural land and open desert. Approximately less than 10 residential structures are
within close proximity to the Project concentrated south of the Project’s substation along Salome Highway
and east of 491st Avenue.
1.3
Location and Accessibility
The Project site will have multiple access points. The site is currently accessible from the east by
Camelback Road. Salome Highway runs along the northeast side of the Project site and through the
eastern side of the Project. Harquahala Valley Road bisects the Project site north to south through the
approximate center of the site.
Construction access would be primarily from I-10 west and the Salome Highway interchange.
Maricopa Energy Center Project
March 11, 2024
Page 5
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
The Project parking area will be located adjacent to the O&M building and is expected to include up to
eight parking spaces with at least one Americans with Disabilities Act parking space.
1.4
Circulation System
There will be ingress and egress along Harquahala Valley Road, Camelback Road, Bethany Home Road,
499th Avenue, 491st Avenue, and Salome Highway. Interior roads are expected to be 16-feet wide
(conforming to International Fire Code (IFC) 2021), accessed by 24-feet wide gates.
Several existing graded and asphalt-paved major/minor/local/farm roads are within the Project site.
Access entry points to the Project will have paved aprons. Roads within the Project will be constructed of
compacted aggregate base with a stabilized decomposed granite overlay, pursuant to the MCDOT
Roadway Design Manual 2023.
Most of the ingress/egress and access points will be exclusively for construction and maintenance
personnel to access the solar array. The access point for the O&M, BESS, and project substation will be
along Salome Highway approximately 950 feet northwest of the intersection of Salome Highway and
Camelback Road. No new roadway construction or roadway improvements are anticipated outside the
Project area.
1.5
Development Schedule and Methods
The construction of the Project will likely occur in two phases and take up to 18 months to complete. It is
anticipated that construction of Phase 1 would begin in 2025 and have an in-service date of June 1, 2026.
Construction of Phase 2 would begin in 2027 and be completed by 2028. The Phase 1 will include the
development of the O&M, BESS, substation, and gen-tie. Additionally, the portion of the array east of
Harquahala Valley Road is expected to be included in Phase 1, with the remaining portions of the array
being developed as part of Phase 2. It should be noted that development stages are likely subject to
change.
Construction would require the use of graders, trenchers, tractors, cranes, and miscellaneous equipment.
The Project will use a variety of low-impact site preparation methods that meet all development,
engineering, construction, and safety requirements. Because the Project site is primarily agricultural land,
the presence of natural wildlife habitat within these lands is mostly absent. For portions of the Project that
do contain marginal natural wildlife habitat, site preparation methods would include:
•
Grading and Leveling: This method of site preparation removes vegetation and surface soils,
resulting in flat, smooth surfaces devoid of vegetation. It is used to prepare surfaces for roads,
inverters, and buildings. In some cases, such as inverter and substation foundations, excavation is
also used in which surface and subsurface soils are removed to a depth of 12 inches or more.
Stormwater retention basins would be excavated and graded.
•
Mow-and-Go: This is the preferred site preparation method for the Project. Vegetation is mowed
or cut low to the ground before construction while retaining the plant’s root structure. This is
accomplished by using a bush hog or similar tractor-mounted brush cutter. This method of site
preparation minimizes disturbance to vegetative root structures and soils, and natural drainage
areas are left in place.
•
Mow-and-Go with Tilling: This method is not anticipated to be required for the project due to the
nature of vegetation on-site. If required, a tractor with a mounted tiller or disk would be used to
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 6
remove large stumps and thick vegetation. For this method of site preparation, vegetation is
removed, and soils are mixed but left in place. Soils are not compacted after tilling.
•
Drive-and-Crush: This method of site preparation uses a vehicle and equipment tires or tracked
machinery to crush the vegetation and soils.
Prior to the start of limited grading and site leveling, the Project site will be pruned of vegetation to within
4 to 6 inches of the ground where construction activities will occur. As stated previously, the intent of the
Applicant is to keep plant roots intact in areas where drainage features, concrete foundations, gravel pads,
roads/parking areas, or underground cabling are not required. All pruned vegetation will be stockpiled
and properly disposed of off-site. Grading will consist of excavation and soil compaction to meet Project
design requirements. Where grading is required within the solar array, the grading will match existing land
contours as close as possible to minimize ground disturbance.
A hydraulic driver will be used to drive metal supports into the ground that support solar panel racking.
The Project will be enclosed by a 6-foot-high chain-link fence around the perimeter of the site. The gate
to the facility will be 24 feet wide, locked, and a Knox box will be provided for emergency access. The
O&M building will have an adjacent parking lot with a maximum of eight parking spaces and surfaced
with stabilized decomposed granite.
Over the 24-month construction period 300 jobs would be created. An estimated 300 to 500 construction
vehicle trips per day, with a maximum of approximately 500 vehicle trips per day, would be required to
construct interior roads; transport construction workers; to import/construct solar module materials,
substation equipment, interconnection, BESS, and O&M building.
The Project will comply with County requirements for construction and earth-moving activities. A
construction Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) would be in effect to prevent impacts on
adjacent properties from stormwater generated on-site. Stormwater runoff would be retained on-site.
Additionally, encroachment permits would be obtained from MCDOT, APS, and utility companies as
required, prior to issuance of a building permit.
1.6
Community Facilities and Services
Community facilities and services for the Project area include the following:
•
Arlington Elementary School District
•
Buckeye Union High School District
•
Western Maricopa Education Center Technical School District
There are no parks or other community amenities in the Project vicinity.
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 7
1.7
Public Utilities and Services
Table 3 summarizes the Project’s existing public utility and service providers.
Table 3: Public Service and Utility Providers
Public Service or Utility
Provider
Water – domestic
On-site private wells
Water – Construction/O&M
On-site private wells
Sewer
On-site septic system to service the O&M building
Police
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office
Fire
Harquahala Fire District
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 8
1.8
Development Standards Comparison Chart
Table 4 lists the applicant’s proposed deviations from development standards that are consistent with previously approved utility-scale solar
projects in this area.
The proposed IUPD Overlay is requested to modify specific development standards that are typical of solar development in Maricopa County and
notably the surrounding area. As part of this Overlay, the only allowed uses would be strictly for solar generation with BESS and other solar related
accessory uses. We understand that the project size and lack of urban services in the area needs to restrict the requested industrial zoning to only
solar facility uses, which will also prevent impacts of more intense industrial uses on the surrounding area.
The proposed deviations in development standards are based on other approved solar facilities within Maricopa County, which we want to be
consistent with in our requests for these variations. The proposed setbacks for the solar panels are requested at 0' for all yards (front, sides, and
rear) as this will allow for flexibility with the future site layout (Plan of Development phase) and maximum allowance for electrical output. To note,
other site structures would need to maintain the required setbacks for the IND-2 zoning district. Maximum lot coverage is proposed to not count
the solar panels as part of the allowed 60% coverage, this is also consistent with other solar sites as the panels will be located on most of the site
area. Parking requirements are to be waived given the anticipated minimal number of employees on-site after construction is completed. Paving
for parking would be stabilized decomposed granite to limit any issues with dust for air quality purposes. Site Visibility Triangles (SVTs) would also
not be required given the Project's remote location and anticipated limited amounts of site vehicular ingress/egress, which will only be for periodic
maintenance once the facility is operational. Chain link fencing is also a standard for solar facilities with barbed wire added at the top, for security
purposes, so there is no need for a solid wall to surround the entire site.
Table 4: IND-2 Industrial Unit Plan of Development (IUPD) Table
Regulation
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(R-5)
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(RU-43)
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(C-2)
Base Zoning District
Regulations (IND-2)
Proposed Zoning
District Regulations
(IND-2 IUPD)
Max. Height
40'
30'
40'
40'
40'
Min. Front Yard
Setback
20'
40'
10'-25'
10'-25'
10'-25'; 0' for solar
panels
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 9
Regulation
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(R-5)
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(RU-43)
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(C-2)
Base Zoning District
Regulations (IND-2)
Proposed Zoning
District Regulations
(IND-2 IUPD)
Min. Side Yard
Setback
5'
30'
3'-10'
3'-10'
3'-10'; 0' for solar
panels
Min. Rear Yard
Setback
25'
40'
3'-25'
0'-25'
0'-25'; 0' for solar
panels
Landscaping
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
No landscaping
required
Min. Lot Area
6,000 sq. ft.
43,560 sq. ft. (1-acre)
6,000 sq. ft.
6,000 sq. ft.
6,000 sq. ft.
Min. Lot Width
60'
145'
60'
60'
60'
Max. Lot Coverage
60%
25%
60%
60%
60%; Solar panels
not to be counted as
lot coverage
Parking Regulations
Chapter 11, Section
1102
Chapter 11, Section
1102
Chapter 11, Section
1102
Chapter 11, Section
1102
None required
Paving Requirements
Article 1102.7.1
Article 1102.7.1
Article 1102.7.1
Article 1102.7.1
Parking/paving
material allowed to
be stabilized
decomposed granite
with an approved
dust control plan by
Maricopa County Air
Quality Control.
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 10
Regulation
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(R-5)
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(RU-43)
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(C-2)
Base Zoning District
Regulations (IND-2)
Proposed Zoning
District Regulations
(IND-2 IUPD)
Loading & Unloading
N/A
N/A
Chapter 11, Section
1103.1
Article 1103.2: One
loading and
unloading space for
each 10,000 sq. ft. of
floor area, or
fraction thereof,
devoted to such use
in the building.
None required
Site Visibility Triangles
(SVT's)
No obstructions over
2' (h) within 25' x 25'
SVT's (at corner lots
only)
No obstructions over
2' (h) within 25' x 25'
SVT's (at corner lots
only)
No obstructions over
2' (h) within 25' x 25'
SVT's
No obstructions over
2' (h) within 25' x 25'
SVT's
No SVT’s at project
site entry/exit points,
section line and
midsection line
intersecting
alignments
Uses/Building
Enclosures
N/A
N/A
Article 804.9.1: All
uses except for
parking, loading,
unloading or storage
shall be conducted
within a completely
enclosed building.
Article 902.9.1: All
uses except for
parking, loading,
unloading or storage
shall be conducted
within a completely
enclosed building.
A waiver from Article
902.9 as applied to
solar arrays; they will
not be located inside
enclosed buildings
Site Enclosure and
Screening
N/A
N/A
Article 804.9.4: Min.
6' CMU wall adjacent
to rural and
residential zoning
boundaries and for
Article 902.9.3: Min.
6' CMU wall adjacent
to rural and
residential zoning
boundaries and for
Chain-link fencing
and gates shall be
allowed on the
perimeter of the
project. One (1) foot
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 11
Regulation
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(R-5)
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(RU-43)
Existing Base Zoning
District Regulations
(C-2)
Base Zoning District
Regulations (IND-2)
Proposed Zoning
District Regulations
(IND-2 IUPD)
outdoor use of a
commercial nature.
outdoor use of an
industrial nature.
of barbed wire
strands will be
incorporated atop 6-
foot fencing for
additional security
Allowed Uses
Article 702.2
Article 503.2
Article 804.2
Article 902.2
Solar electric
generating facility
and Battery Energy
Storage System
(BESS) - including
ancillary offices and
ancillary uses only
Maricopa Energy Center Project
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
March 11, 2024
Page 12
1.9
Compliance with the Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan & Consistency
with Agency Management Objectives
The Project is located 12 miles west of Tonopah, Arizona, and not expected to be annexed by any city or
town. No water, sewer, police, or fire services will be provided to the Project by Tonopah or any other city
or town. The Project is located outside the Maricopa County/Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan boundary.
Tonopah is not an incorporated city or town but is rather a census area with limited population and no
adopted General Plan. The Project area is designated as “Utilities” within the Vision 2030 Maricopa County
Comprehensive Plan following the approval of CPA2020002 and CPA 2023011. The Project is consistent
with this land use designation as well as the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan.
Since 2020, the Project has sought out public commentary and consulted with regulatory agencies. The
following subsections describe MEC’s interactions with stakeholders. MEC has held numerous public
meetings. At these meetings, the public was informed of the Project and allowed to ask questions and
make comments. The first public meeting was held on September 10, 2020, and 11 members of the public
attended. The second and third public meetings were held in conjunction with the Certificate of
Environmental Compatibility (CEC) application. The second meeting was held on December 14, 2021, and
six members of the public attended. The third meeting was held on June 30, 2022, and two members of
the public attended. Scoping reports for these meetings are available under separate cover. An additional
public meeting was held on September 20, 2023, as part of CPA2023011 outreach efforts and no
members of the public attended.
Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) – The Project began consultations with the AZGFD in July
2020 and received five comments on the Project. In July 2023, the Applicant received 16 additional
comments from AZGFD regarding species occurrences, as well as general recommendations regarding
revegetation, lighting, ground disturbance, and other impacts. The Applicant has held several meetings to
discuss the agency’s recommendations regarding “species of concern” and their associated habitats. While
no recommendations have been formalized, AZGFD and the Applicant have discussed the possibility of
implementing measures, such as surveys, one-way burrow installations, wildlife fencing, and revegetation
efforts; see Appendix B. The Applicant will continue to consult with AZGFD on recommendations for the
Project.
Luke Air Force Base (LAFB) – The Project began consultations with the LAFB in July 2023 and received
one comment on the Project. LAFB informed the Applicant and Maricopa County that the Project is
located outside low-flight corridors and does not impact flying operations at the base. LAFB also
requested that the Project be submitted for an informal review through the U.S. Department of Defense
(DoD) Siting Clearinghouse for Energy, Installations, and Environment (Clearinghouse). The Applicant
received a response to a Request for Informal Review to the Clearinghouse on February 21, 2024, stating
that the Project will have minimal impact on military operations conducted in the area and included no
stipulations; see Appendix C.
Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) – The Project began consultations with
MCDOT in July 2023 and received six comments on the Project. On August 24, 2023, MCDOT confirmed
the following requirements: a 65-foot road dedication from the center line for Salome Highway east of the
I-10 interchange, and a 55-foot dedication from the center line for Salome Highway west of the I-10
interchange. Additionally, MCDOT required a 55-foot dedication from the center line for Harquahala Valley
Road for a total of 110 feet. MCDOT also required 55- and 40-foot setbacks for section and mid-section
alignments along the perimeter of the Project site. Any additional dedication and off-site
Maricopa Energy Center Project
March 11, 2024
Page 13
Application for a Zone Change – Project Narrative
improvement requirements will be determined by MCDOT Traffic and MCDOT Permits based on the
submission of a Traffic Impact Assessment or Traffic Impact Study. The Applicant will continue to consult
with MCDOT regarding dedication and potential road improvement requirements.
Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) – The Applicant met with the ADOT on August 2, 2023.
MCDOT informed the Applicant that it should notify the ADOT of the Project using the Red-Letter
Process, due to the Project’s proximity to the I-10. The Applicant will submit the Project using the Red-
Letter Process whenever stakeholders are notified during the zone change process and before the
construction phase of the Project starts and will continue to coordinate with the ADOT.
Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (AZ SHPO) – On October 6, 2020, the Project agreed to
conduct a Class II Cultural Resources Sample Survey and expressed its commitment to conducting the
required archaeological studies pursuant to the Arizona Antiquities Act (AAA). AZ SHPO confirmed in an
October 6, 2020, email that the Project had addressed its concerns regarding the Project’s potential
impacts to cultural resources. Two additional Class I Cultural Resource Inventories were completed in May
2022, (as part of the gen-tie CEC) and in August 2022, for the current array footprint. Known archeological
sites would be avoided. The Applicant is also in consultation with the AZ SHPO regarding comments
received on June 24, 2020. The AZ SHPO provided further recommendations on October 5, 2022, due to
the changes in Project acreage. A Class II Cultural Resources Sample Survey pursuant to the AAA has been
conducted on the Project and a report is being developed for review by AZ SHPO.
United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) – The Project conducted a Jurisdictional Delineation to
identify potential Waters of the United States (WOTUS) on August 1 and 2, 2022. No potential WOTUS
were identified and on October 24, 2022, a Dry Land Approved Jurisdictional Determination (AJD)
application was made to USACE. The AJD was received on October 24, 2023.
Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) – In 2022, the Project applied for a CEC from the ACC for the
500kV gen-tie that will connect the Project substation to the APS Delaney Substation. A public hearing
was held by the Line Siting Committee on October 24 and 25, 2022. Three alternate routes were agreed
upon. The CEC was subsequently granted by the ACC in Decision # 78809 on December 15, 2022. The
Project will be requesting a height variance from Maricopa County to accommodate between 153 and 196
feet of transmission line structures.
Harquahala Valley Irrigation District (HVID) –
The Applicant has received a crossing agreement from HVID to cross their canal (East Lateral) with the
Project’s gen-tie.
Flood Control District of Maricopa County (FCDMC) –
The Applicant is in the final stages of securing a right-of-way from FCDMC to locate the Project’s gen-tie
along the Saddleback FRS. This approval is anticipated in the first half of 2024.
The Project is committed to continuing communications with stakeholders and agencies through
consultations and solicitations of public comment to minimize potential impacts of the Project.
Page | 1
Subdivision
Infrastructure
& Planning Program
301 W. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85003
S u b d i vi s io n @ m a ri co p a .go v
e s d .m a r i c o pa .g o v
The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD) has completed review
for the MARICOPA ENERGY CENTER PROJECT planning case(s). Please note the following
MCESD requirements for site development:
Onsite Wastewater –
A Notice of Intent to Discharge application for an onsite wastewater treatment (septic)
system is required for any construction. Application must be submitted to the MCESD
Onsite Wastewater Program.
•
Wastewater is not permitted to discharge to an adjacent parcel’s septic system.
For Onsite Wastewater related questions, please contact the Onsite Program at (602) 506-
6666 or by email at septicquestions@maricopa.gov.
Additional Notes –
Environmental Services does not require these items for condition of approval of Z2023133, however
these items must be addressed with the development of the site. Environmental Services does not
require additional review of this case.
*It should be noted that this document does not approve the referenced project. Comments are provided
for the benefit of the applicant for MCESD permit requirements and as an advisory to Maricopa County
Planning and Development Department. Other Maricopa County agencies may have additional
requirements. Final review and approval will be made through Planning and Development Department
procedures. Applicant may need to submit separate applications to the Maricopa County Environmental
Services Department for approval of proposed facilities regulated by the Department. Review of any such
application will be based on current regulations at the time of application.
Project Name: MARICOPA ENERGY
CENTER PROJECT
Primary Contact Name: CHRISTOPHER
POWERS
Planning Application Type: Zone Change
with Overlay
APN(s): 506-18-027
Reviewer: Souren Naradikian, P.E.
Email: Souren.Naradikian@maricopa.gov
Phone: 602-372-2907
Planner Name: Nick Schlimm
Planning Case #: Z2023133
Date: November 17, 2023
Water and Waste Management Division
Page 1 of 3
Krystina Aragon, PE
Planning & Development
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170
Phoenix, Arizona 85003
Phone: (602) 506-8790
www.maricopa.gov/planning
Email address:
Krystina.aragon@maricopa.gov
Planning & Development
Engineering Plan Review
Date:
December 11, 2023
Memo To: Darren Gerard, AICP, Planning Manager, Department of Planning &
Development
Attn:
Nicholas Schlimm, Planner, Planning & Development Services
From:
Krystina
Aragon,
P.E.,
Engineering
Supervisor,
Planning
&
Development Services
cc:
Michael Norris, P.E., Engineering Manager, Planning & Development
Subject:
Z2023133 - Zone Change (to IND-2)
(E1 Memo)
Job Site Address: Harquahala Valley west of Tonopah
APN(s):
506-18-027 + multiple parcels
This application is to specify zoning for future development and does not include a
Plan of Development.
PND Engineering Plan Review (DPR, FCD and PND Transportation) has reviewed the
1st submittal of the Zone Change application routed for review on November 17, 2023,
and has no objections subject to the following conditions:
1. Without the submittal of a precise plan of development, no development approval
is inferred by this review, including, but not limited to number of proposed building
lots/units, drainage design, access and roadway alignments. These items will be
addressed as development plans progress and are submitted to the County for
further review and/or entitlement.
2. A Preliminary Grading and Drainage Plan and Drainage Report are required with
the Plan of Development. The Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO)
required that all commercial submittals be prepared by a Civil Engineer registered
in the State of Arizona. (MCZO 1205.7.2)
3. Provide the required retention volume for the 100 year, 2 hour storm event, plus
one (1) foot of freeboard, for the developed area. Provide documentation that the
retention basin(s) will drain within 36 hours. (MCZO 1205.7.6-2.a &C)
4. Provide a runoff coefficient based on the Table 6.3 of the Maricopa County
Drainage Policies and Standards.
Page 2 of 3
5. Historic inflow and outflow drainage locations and characteristics must be
maintained.
6. See https://apps.pnd.maricopa.gov/plansubmittalchecklist for the most up to date
interactive Engineering Plan Review checklist. (Please be sure to check
commercial and all related grading matters so the checklist expands properly).
7. A traffic impact study must be submitted with future entitlement (POD or
Preliminary Plat) application(s).
8. MCDOT may require dedication or preservation of right-of-ways (R/W) of the
section and mid section alignments adjacent to or through the development site.
Contact MCDOTPlanning@maricopa.gov for more information.
9. Private utilities that will occupy County R/W (MCDOT and Flood Control) require
a license in addition to any construction related permits. The first step in the
licensing process is to complete the attached application and email it to
MCDOTsolarlicense@maricopa.gov.
https://www.maricopa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/74250/MCDOT-Solar-
License-Application
10. Portions of the site are within a FEMA Zone AO floodplain. Structures and inverter
pads within the floodplain must be elevated to the regulator flood elevation (1’
above the base flood elevation).
11. Any work in the floodplain will require a Floodplain Use Permit issued concurrent
with building permit(s) required for site development.
12. The subject site is not located within the County’s Urbanized Area and thus will
not require a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Permit (SWPPP) from the County.
This does NOT preclude the requirement to obtain a Notice of Intent to Discharge
(NOID) from the State (ADEQ), as may be required prior to the start of
construction.
13. There appears to be public or private irrigation facilities located on or adjacent to
this development site. Certain entities may have rights to work in or use said
facilities. There may be public or private rights associated with the historical
conveyance of water within said private irrigation facilities which Maricopa County
does not regulate. It will be the applicant’s sole responsibility to ensure the
integrity of any irrigation rights. Any disputes that may arise with the respect to
any irrigation rights are a civil matter that will not involve Maricopa County.
14. Engineering review of re-zone cases is conceptual in nature. All development and
engineering design shall be in conformance with Section 1205 of the Maricopa
County Zoning Ordinance; Drainage Policies and Standards; Floodplain
Page 3 of 3
Regulations for Maricopa County; MCDOT Roadway Design Manual; and current
engineering policies, standards and best practices at the time of application for
construction.
Please contact me if you have any questions or require any additional information.
July 12, 2023
Mr. Nicholas Schlimm
Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
301 West Jefferson Street, Suite 170
Phoenix, Arizona 85003
Electronically submitted to Nicholas.Schlimm@maricopa.gov
RE:
Maricopa Energy Center Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA2023011)
Dear Mr. Schlimm:
The Arizona Game and Fish Department (Department) appreciates the opportunity to review the
proposed Maricopa Energy Center project. The Department understands that Maricopa Energy
Center, LLC proposes to construct a 550 MW photovoltaic (PV) solar facility with a battery
energy storage system (BESS) and associated infrastructure on approximately 4,265 acres of
private lands near Tonopah in Maricopa County, Arizona. The facility will be located northwest
of Saddle Mountain, south of the Big Horn Mountains Wilderness Area, and northeast of the
Eagletail Mountains Wilderness Area within the Harquahala Valley in a combination of
undeveloped sonoran desert scrub habitat and lands previously used for agriculture. An
approximately 5.2-mile single circuit 500kV generation intertie (gen-tie) transmission line would
connect the facility to the Arizona Public Service (APS) Delaney Substation.
Under Title 17 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the Department, by and through the Arizona
Game and Fish Commission, has jurisdictional authority and public trust responsibilities to
conserve and protect the state fish and wildlife resources. In addition, the Department manages
threatened and endangered species through authorities of Section 6 of the Endangered Species
Act and the Department’s Section 10(a)(1)(A) permit. It is the mission of the Department to
conserve and protect Arizona's diverse fish and wildlife resources and manage for safe,
compatible outdoor recreation opportunities for current and future generations.
The Department recognizes the importance of planning efforts to develop renewable energy
locations that contribute to regional and state economic growth needs and would like to work
closely with Wood, Maricopa Energy Center, LLC, and Maricopa County during the planning
and development of this facility. The Department recognizes that appropriate coordination,
proper planning, and voluntary implementation of best management practices allow projects to
be developed that avoid, minimize, or offset potential impacts to wildlife and recreational access
during development and operation of the facilities. For your consideration, the Department
AZGFD – Maricopa Energy Center
July 12, 2023
Page 2
provides the following comments based on the agency's statutory authorities, public trust
responsibilities, and special expertise related to wildlife resources and recreation.
Arizona has recently seen an increase in the number of proposed and in-development renewable
energy generation projects and associated infrastructure. A number of solar projects have been
built or proposed within the vicinity of this project. Although each of these projects individually
may have a minimal impact on the broader landscape, these projects cumulatively could result in
loss of habitat, impact wildlife movements, and affect wildlife-related recreation. Additionally,
long-term effects to wildlife can extend several kilometers beyond the footprint of a solar project
area (Sawyer et al. 2022 ). It is important to consider all potential cumulative effects and to
1
evaluate this project in association with other projects in the area. Department staff are available
to assist in identifying potential cumulative impacts to wildlife and associated voluntary
conservation measures that can be implemented for the project.
The Department recommends conducting surveys in the project area to determine wildlife
species presence. These surveys should be of sufficient duration and intensity to adequately
assess all habitat types and potential species occurrence in and adjacent to the project area.
Department staff are available to assist Wood and Maricopa Energy Center, LLC in determining
appropriate surveys to conduct and design features and best management practices to implement
that can help minimize potential impacts. Based on the information provided, the Department
offers the following recommendations to reduce potential impacts to wildlife and habitat;
additional information can be found in Guidelines for Solar Development in Arizona :
2
●
The endangered Sonoran pronghorn could occur in the project area and adjacent lands.
Sonoran pronghorn have specific habitat requirements based on their life history and
survival strategy. The Department would like to work with Wood and Maricopa Energy
Center, LLC to minimize any potential impacts to this species. The Department
recommends scheduling construction activities outside the fawning season for Sonoran
pronghorn (February 1 to July 15) and requests coordination prior to construction
activities in order to exchange information on current Sonoran pronghorn use in the
project area. If pronghorn are detected during project activities, please notify the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Department’s Sonoran Pronghorn Program
3
Lead (jbright@azgfd.gov) as soon as possible.
●
The Sonoran desert tortoise, which is a federal and state species of special concern, has
been documented within 5 miles of the project area. The Department recommends
conducting surveys, in accordance with the Desert Tortoise Survey Guidelines for
Environmental Consultants , to determine the presence of this species or its habitat. If
4
tortoises are identified, please refer to and implement the Recommended Standard
4 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/2010SurveyguidelinesForConsultants.pdf
3 https://www.fws.gov/office/arizona-ecological-services/contact-us
2 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/planningFor/wildlifeFriendlyGuidelines/
FinalSolarGuidelines03122010.pdf
1 https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fee.2498
AZGFD – Maricopa Energy Center
July 12, 2023
Page 3
Mitigation Measures for Projects in Sonoran Desert Tortoise Habitat and Guidelines for
5
Handling Sonoran Desert Tortoises Encountered on Development Projects .
6
●
The western burrowing owl, a special status species that is regulated under the Migratory
Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), has the potential to occur in the project area. The Department
recommends conducting occupancy surveys for this species in advance of the design
phase to understand distribution of burrowing owls in the project site; avoidance of a
large burrowing owl population may be advisable over removal or other conservation
measures. Guidelines for conducting this survey are found in Burrowing Owl Project
Clearance Guidance for Landowners . Please note that the survey should be conducted
7
by a surveyor who is certified by the Department or has similar training and
qualifications. If an active burrowing owl burrow is detected, please contact the
Department and the USFWS for direction, in accordance with the guidelines.
●
Golden eagles, which are regulated under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
(BGEPA), could occur within the project vicinity. If uncertain about the effects of the
project on eagles, or if it is anticipated the project will not be in compliance with the
BGEPA, the Department recommends contacting the USFWS for technical assistance.
Additionally,
Tuk
Jacobson,
the
Department’s
eagle
specialist
is
available
at
raptors@azgfd.gov or 623-236-7575 to provide assistance and discuss conservation
measures to avoid or minimize potential effects on eagles.
●
Large-scale solar PV facilities can result in a high rate of bird mortality due to habitat
loss, collision with panels, attraction due to an optical illusion of water, and unknown
causes (Kosciuch et al. 2020 ). The Department recommends conducting avian surveys
8
during the planning stage in order to better understand species presence and to inform
potential conservation measures. Point counts are the preferred method for breeding bird
surveys. These surveys are conducted twice a year during the peak breeding season,
which is mid-January through June in this area; McLaren et al. (2019) outline protocols.
9
Additional surveys for Bendire’s and LeConte’s thrashers, two bird species of
conservation concern, are recommended; a draft protocol
from the Desert Thrashers
10
Working Group is available online.
●
The Department also recommends conducting surveys for nesting birds prior to
vegetation removal and/or construction activities that occur during the breeding season.
The vegetation within the project area may provide nesting opportunities for avian
species that are regulated under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). It is
recommended to avoid activities in the vicinity of any occupied nests within the project
area that could disturb or cause the nest to fail until after fledging has occurred. If it is
anticipated the project will not be in compliance with MBTA, the Department
recommends contacting the USFWS for technical assistance.
10 https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1d9L8Su0HPbBzo2oGSH4H2xqrwOqHpT1o?usp=sharing
9 https://www.birdconservancy.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2020-Field-Protocol-for-Spatially-Balanced-Sampling.pdf
8 https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0232034
7 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/nongame/eagles/BurrowingOwl
ClearanceProtocol_2009.pdf
6 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/2014%20Tortoise%20handling%20guidelines.pdf
5 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/MitigationMeasures.pdf
AZGFD – Maricopa Energy Center
July 12, 2023
Page 4
●
Burrowing mammal species could occur within the project area and could be influenced
by construction activities and by loss of habitat. Surveys for these species are
recommended to determine their presence and to inform pre-construction activities.
Department staff are available to assist in identifying suitable conservation measures,
such as one-way exclosures on burrows that allow wildlife to exit the burrows and
disperse to adjacent lands in advance of construction.
●
A variety of other Arizona Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) have the
potential to occur within the project area. If wildlife are encountered during project
activities, the Department recommends moving them out of harm’s way, no more than
0.25 mile outside the project boundary within similar habitat. Please note that the Arizona
State Wildlife Action Plan was recently updated, and the Department has an interactive
website, Arizona Wildlife Conservation Strategy , that includes the most recent list of
11
SGCN to help navigate and identify conservation opportunities.
Maintaining habitat connectivity is a priority for the Department, and wildlife movement
corridors are important for wildlife to respond to changing environmental conditions. The
landscape in which this project is proposed provides important movement pathways for wildlife
and, as identified in the attached Heritage Data Management System (HDMS) Online
Environmental Review Tool (ERT) report (HGIS-19602), this project falls within two county
stakeholder identified wildlife movement areas. The Department would like to meet with Wood
and Maricopa Energy Center, LLC to discuss opportunities to incorporate wildlife connectivity
into the project design, including the following:
●
The Department recommends incorporating project design features to facilitate wildlife
movement within the project area. These include open unfenced wildlife movement
corridors, including within upland habitat, as well as maintaining the ephemeral washes
that occur in the project area in their natural state without fencing or other barriers to
wildlife movement. These washes serve multiple functions in the ecosystem. Not only do
they provide for hydrologic flow, which is especially important in areas that receive
infrequent and isolated precipitation events, but these washes also serve as important
landscape-level conveyance corridors for wildlife movement.
●
The Department recommends conducting minimal grading in the project area and, to the
extent possible, retaining habitat features underneath the panels, including vegetation and
soils. The topography in the majority of the site is flat and would require minimal
trimming of shrubs and existing vegetation to install the panels. Keeping the existing soil
and root structures intact would serve to minimize erosional run-off and help reduce
biodiversity loss within the site (Grodsky and Hernandez 2020 ).
12
●
The Department’s Wildlife Compatible Fencing Guidelines
provide information on how
13
fencing impacts wildlife, ways to design fencing to prevent wildlife entanglement and
impalement, and to ensure wildlife movement is not restricted. Department personnel are
available as resources to help determine appropriate fencing design and layout that will
13 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/planningFor/wildlifeFriendlyGuidelines/
110125_AGFD_fencing_guidelines.pdf
12 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-020-0574-x
11 https://awcs.azgfd.com
AZGFD – Maricopa Energy Center
July 12, 2023
Page 5
achieve its objective while reducing impact on wildlife, such as leaving a 6–8-inch gap
between the ground surface and bottom of the fence to allow for smaller wildlife species
to move freely through the area and make use of any habitat within the project boundary.
Finally, the Department offers the following general recommendations to reduce potential
impacts to wildlife and habitat during construction and operation of the facility:
●
Because proposed ground disturbance (both temporary and permanent) will exceed 0.25
acres in areas with native vegetation, please ensure the project complies with the Arizona
Native Plant Law regulations . A Native Plant Inventory may need to be conducted to
14
identify, record, and coordinate plant salvage efforts for species that are protected under
the Arizona Native Plant Law.
●
To minimize the potential introduction or spread of exotic invasive species, including
aquatic and terrestrial plants, animals, insects, and pathogens, the Department encourages
taking precautions to wash and/or decontaminate equipment before entering and leaving
the site. See the Arizona Department of Agriculture website
for a list of prohibited and
15
restricted noxious weeds and the Arizona Native Plant Society
for recommendations on
16
how to control them. To view a list of documented invasive species or to report invasive
species in or near the project area, visit iMapInvasives , which is a national cloud-based
17
application for tracking and managing invasive species.
●
If trenching or digging of large holes necessary for anchoring project infrastructure will
occur for the proposed project, the Department recommends trenching/digging and
backfilling crews be close together to minimize the amount of open holes at any given
time. Where trenches or holes cannot be back-filled immediately, the Department
recommends escape ramps be constructed at least every 90 meters. Escape ramps can be
short lateral trenches or wooden planks sloping to the surface. The Department
recommends that slopes be less than 45 degrees (1:1) and trenches and holes that have
been left open be inspected to remove animals prior to backfilling.
●
The Department recommends following standards established by the Avian Power Line
Interaction Committee (APLIC) for new powerlines, which can be found in Suggested
Practices for Avian Protection on Power Lines: The State of the Art in 2006
and
18
Reduced Avian Collisions with Power Lines: The State of the Art in 2012 . Birds of prey,
19
such as raptors, owls, vultures, and eagles, are vulnerable to powerline strikes and
electrocution during construction and operation of transmission lines; power poles can
also serve as perches for birds of prey. Tuk Jacobson, the Department’s Raptor
Coordinator, can provide further information on specific design features and best
management practices; he can be contacted at raptors@azgfd.gov or 623-236-7575.
●
The Department recommends revegetating disturbed areas with native drought-tolerant
species that represent the natural surrounding landscape. Landscaping with native plants
19 https://www.aplic.org/uploads/files/15518/Reducing_Avian_Collisions_2012watermarkLR.pdf
18 https://www.aplic.org/uploads/files/2643/SuggestedPractices2006(LR-2).pdf
17 https://imap.natureserve.org/imap/services/page/map.html
16 https://aznps.com/invas
15 https://agriculture.az.gov/pestspest-control/agriculture-pests/noxious-weeds
14 https://agriculture.az.gov/plantsproduce/native-plants
AZGFD – Maricopa Energy Center
July 12, 2023
Page 6
can help support wildlife and pollinator species in the area while reducing dust and
erosion. In addition, the applicable land management agencies should be consulted
regarding guidelines for revegetation efforts.
●
Artificial lighting could impair the ability of nocturnal animals to navigate (e.g., owls,
migratory birds, bats, and other nocturnal mammals) and may affect wildlife behavior
and populations (Davies et. al. 2013 ). The Department recommends using only the
20
minimum amount of light needed for safety. If feasible, narrow spectrum lighting is
wildlife-friendly and should be used as often as possible to minimize the number of
species affected by lighting. It is also beneficial that all lighting is shielded, canted, or cut
to minimize the amount of upward shining light.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on the Maricopa Energy Center. For further
coordination, please contact Teigan Williams at tstruck@azgfd.gov or (928) 341-4069.
Sincerely,
Michael Sumner
Regional Supervisor, Yuma
Attachment (1)
cc:
Ginger Ritter – Project Evaluation Program Supervisor
Tiffany Sprague – Project Evaluation Program Specialist
Tyler Williford – Habitat, Evaluation, and Lands Program Supervisor, Yuma
AZGFD #M23-0619222
20 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3657119
AZGFD CPA2023011 Comments/Recommendations
Wood & Savion Responses
Conduct surveys to determine wildlife species presence: "The Department recommends conducting surveys in the project area to determine
wildlife species presence. These surveys should be of sufficient duration and intensity to adequately assess all habitat types and potential
species occurrence in and adjacent to the project area. Department staff are available to assist Wood and Maricopa Energy Center, LLC in
determining appropriate surveys to conduct and design features and best management practices to implement that can help minimize
potential impacts. Based on the information provided, the Department offers the following recommendations to reduce potential impacts to
wildlife and habitat; additional information can be found in Guidelines for Solar Development in Arizona:"
Comments below based on Ecosphere (2020) and WestLand Resources (2021) biological reports for potential to occur within the project area and further discussions with
AZGFD:
Sonoran Pronghorn: "The endangered Sonoran pronghorn could occur in the project area and adjacent lands. Sonoran pronghorn have specific
habitat requirements based on their life history and survival strategy. The Department would like to work with Wood and Maricopa Energy
Center, LLC to minimize any potential impacts to this species. The Department recommends scheduling construction activities outside the
fawning season for Sonoran pronghorn (February 1 to July 15) and requests coordination prior to construction activities in order to exchange
information on current Sonoran pronghorn use in the project area. If pronghorn are detected during project activities, please notify the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Department’s Sonoran Pronghorn Program Lead (jbright@azgfd.gov) as soon as possible."
Pronghorn will not likely occur within our study area:
Ecosphere - "Project area lacks primary habitat. The project area is in a desert valley previously developed for agricultural use; the network of ag fields makes it unlikely that
Sonoran pronghorn would use or travel through the area."
WestLand - "Range does not extend to the ROWs area, which in Maricopa County is
depicted south of the Gila River, although the Experimental Non-Essential Population area extends north to Interstate 10 in the vicinity of the ROWs."
Savion agrees to inform AZGFD if pronghorn have been observed in the project area during other species surveys. AZGFD to be contacted prior to construction phase to check
if any pronghorns have been logged using telemetry collars.
Sonoran Desert Tortoise: "The Sonoran desert tortoise, which is a federal and state species of special concern, has been documented within 5
miles of the project area. The Department recommends conducting surveys, in accordance with the Desert Tortoise Survey Guidelines for
Environmental Consultants, to determine the presence of this species or its habitat. If tortoises are identified, please refer to and implement
the Recommended Standard Mitigation Measures for Projects in Sonoran Desert Tortoise - Habitat and Guidelines for Handling Sonoran Desert
Tortoises Encountered on Development Projects."
Only the north end of the paloverde foothills (near Delaney substation) is there marginal desert tortise habitat:
Ecosphere - "Project area lacks primary habitat. The project area is in a desert valley previously developed for agricultural use; the network of roads, ditches, and ag fields make
it unlikely that tortoises would use or travel through the area."
WestLand - "The OLERT does not provide specific locations, but iNaturalist has a record of the Sonoran desert tortoise at the north end of the Palo Verde Hills approximately 5
miles northeast of the South ROW (iNaturalist 2021, accessed January 15, 2021). No boulder habitat or exposed caliche, primary constituents of typical Sonoran desert tortoise
habitat, were seen within or near the ROWs; thus, the ROWs themselves appear to be low quality habitat for the species, but individuals can wander long distances from
appropriate habitat. If the Sonoran desert tortoise becomes a species of concern for the Project, measures such as training workers to identify the species and to follow the
AGFD tortoise handling guidelines if individuals are encountered would likely be adequate to address their conservation for the ROWs project. There is potential that a more
formalized management plan for the Sonoran desert tortoise would be required, which, in addition to the measures outlined above, could include a pre-construction survey for
tortoises and tortoise burrows, the construction of buried fencing to prevent tortoises from gaining access to hazardous areas, and/or other measures."
Savion agrees to conduct desert tortoise presence/absence surveys 30-90 days prior to construction along the 500kV gen-tie ROW from Delaney Substation to Salome
Highway. AZGFD will be informed should any individuals be identified along this ROW. Access to construct this portion of the gen-tie would be along Salome Highway and no
new access route would be required. AZGFD will also be notified of any species presence found within the project boundaries, Savion will log location and provide photographs
of species if found.
Western Burrowing Owl: "The western burrowing owl, a special status species that is regulated under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA),
has the potential to occur in the project area. The Department recommends conducting occupancy surveys for this species in advance of the
design phase to understand distribution of burrowing owls in the project site; avoidance of a large burrowing owl population may be advisable
over removal or other conservation measures. Guidelines for conducting this survey are found in Burrowing Owl Project Clearance Guidance for
Landowners. Please note that the survey should be conducted by a surveyor who is certified by the Department or has similar training and
qualifications. If an active burrowing owl burrow is detected, please contact the Department and the USFWS for direction, in accordance with
the guidelines."
Details from biological report:
Ecosphere - "Cultivated fields and irrigation ditches are prominent in the project area with pockets of open, desert scrub."
Savion agrees to conduct pre construction clearance surveys 30-90 days prior to construction of the project. These surveys will occur over the entire project footprint area.
Golden/Bald Eagles: "Golden eagles, which are regulated under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA), could occur within the
project vicinity. If uncertain about the effects of the project on eagles, or if it is anticipated the project will not be in compliance with the
BGEPA, the Department recommends contacting the USFWS for technical assistance. Additionally, Tuk Jacobson, the Department’s eagle
specialist is available at raptors@azgfd.gov or 623-236-7575 to provide assistance and discuss conservation measures to avoid or minimize
potential effects on eagles."
There are no known eagle nests within our study area:
Ecosphere - "No suitable habitat occurs within the project area."
Savion will notify AZGFD should any individuals be identified during project construction.
Avian Surveys: "Large-scale solar PV facilities can result in a high rate of bird mortality due to habitat loss, collision with panels, attraction due
to an optical illusion of water, and unknown causes (Kosciuch et al. 2020). The Department recommends conducting avian surveys during the
planning stage in order to better understand species presence and to inform potential conservation measures. Point counts are the preferred
method for breeding bird surveys. These surveys are conducted twice a year during the peak breeding season, which is mid-January through
June in this area; McLaren et al. (2019) outline protocols. Additional surveys for Bendire’s and LeConte’s thrashers, two bird species of
conservation concern, are recommended; a draft protocol from the Desert Thrashers Working Group is available online."
Details from biological reports:
Ecosphere - Bendire's thrasher - "Open, somewhat degraded shrubland occurs in a few sections of the project area." LeConte’s thrasher - "Mixed desert shrubland occurs in
much of the project area not occupied by ag fields."
Savion agrees to conduct a modified protocol survey for Bendire's and LeConte's Thrasher during the 2024 breeding season based on recent direction provided from Christina
Kondrat to Westland Resources.
Nesting birds: "The Department also recommends conducting surveys for nesting birds prior to vegetation removal and/or construction
activities that occur during the breeding season. The vegetation within the project area may provide nesting opportunities for avian species
that are regulated under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). It is recommended to avoid activities in the vicinity of any occupied nests
within the project area that could disturb or cause the nest to fail until after fledging has occurred. If it is anticipated the project will not be in
compliance with MBTA, the Department recommends contacting the USFWS for technical assistance."
Savion agrees to conduct MBTA nesting surveys 30-90 days prior to construction. The Project will also apply for a USFWS Special Purpose Utility MBTA permit prior to
construction. https://www.fws.gov/service/3-200-81-special-purpose-utility
Burrowing mammal species: "Burrowing mammal species could occur within the project area and could be influenced by construction activities
and by loss of habitat. Surveys for these species are recommended to determine their presence and to inform pre-construction activities.
Department staff are available to assist in identifying suitable conservation measures, such as one-way exclosures on burrows that allow
wildlife to exit the burrows and disperse to adjacent lands in advance of construction."
Savion agrees to inform AZGFD of the presence of burrowing mammal species during other surveys conducted for the project. Should an individual active kit fox den be
identified during or prior to construction, Savion agrees to install one-way in exclosures for burrows as a mitgation measure during the construction phase. Relocation of a
burriowing owl would be covered under USFWS Special Purpose Utlility Permit, if necessary.
Other Species: "A variety of other Arizona Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) have the potential to occur within the project area. If
wildlife are encountered during project activities, the Department recommends moving them out of harm’s way, no more than 0.25 mile
outside the project boundary within similar habitat. Please note that the Arizona State Wildlife Action Plan was recently updated, and the
Department has an interactive website, Arizona Wildlife Conservation Strategy, that includes the most recent list of SGCN to help navigate and
identify conservation opportunities."
Savion will keep AZGFD informed of any encountered wildlife during the projects phases.
General Recommendations:
Below are our responses to other recommendations within the CPA memo:
Maintain Habitat Connectivity: "Maintaining habitat connectivity is a priority for the Department, and wildlife movement corridors are
important for wildlife to respond to changing environmental conditions. The landscape in which this project is proposed provides important
movement pathways for wildlife and, as identified in the attached Heritage Data Management System (HDMS) Online Environmental Review
Tool (ERT) report (HGIS-19602), this project falls within two county stakeholder identified wildlife movement areas. The Department would like
to meet with Wood and Maricopa Energy Center, LLC to discuss opportunities to incorporate wildlife connectivity into the project design,
including the following:
- The Department recommends incorporating project design features to facilitate wildlife movement within the project area. These include
open unfenced wildlife movement corridors, including within upland habitat, as well as maintaining the ephemeral washes that occur in the
project area in their natural state without fencing or other barriers to wildlife movement. These washes serve multiple functions in the
ecosystem. Not only do they provide for hydrologic flow, which is especially important in areas that receive infrequent and isolated
precipitation events, but these washes also serve as important landscape-level conveyance corridors for wildlife movement.
- The Department recommends conducting minimal grading in the project area and, to the extent possible, retaining habitat features
underneath the panels, including vegetation and soils. The topography in the majority of the site is flat and would require minimal trimming of
shrubs and existing vegetation to install the panels. Keeping the existing soil and root structures intact would serve to minimize erosional run-
off and help reduce biodiversity loss within the site (Grodsky and Hernandez 2020).
- The Department’s Wildlife Compatible Fencing Guidelines provide information on how fencing impacts wildlife, ways to design fencing to
prevent wildlife entanglement and impalement, and to ensure wildlife movement is not restricted. Department personnel are available as
resources to help determine appropriate fencing design and layout that will achieve its objective while reducing impact on wildlife, such as
leaving a 6–8-inch gap between the ground surface and bottom of the fence to allow for smaller wildlife species to move freely through the
area and make use of any habitat within the project boundary."
Savion agrees to install wildlife friendly fencing along the perimeter of the project. The O/M facility, BESS, and project switchyard located at 491st Ave and Salome Highway
requires chainlink fence and barbed wire crown. Savion understands AZGFD are developing a fencing specification for these types of facilities. It is requested that AZGFD send
this specification to Savion prior to close of zoning phase in an effort to evaluate for implementation within the project design.
See project map highlighting specific roadways, canals, and ditches within the project area. As shown there are nearly 40 miles of roadway within and around the project site
and over 36 miles of canals and ditches within the same footprint study area. Salome Hwy and the HVID Canal run most of the length of the northeast portion of the project
boundary. There are section lines, mid-section lines, and farms roads that run through and adajcent to the site with Bethany Home, Camelback and Indian School Roads,
running east to west and avenue alignments north to south. The project is being designed to generate the most amount of electricity within the smallest footprint while
implementing best managment practices that reduce potential impact to the greatest extent possible on wildlife species.
This makes it difficult to provide wildlife corridors throughout the project area. However, there are a couple of areas that Savion may be able to incoroporate wildlife passages
as labeled on the revised map.
Ground Disturbance: "Because proposed ground disturbance (both temporary and permanent) will exceed 0.25 acres in areas with native
vegetation, please ensure the project complies with the Arizona Native Plant Law regulations. A Native Plant Inventory may need to be
conducted to identify, record, and coordinate plant salvage efforts for species that are protected under the Arizona Native Plant Law."
Savion will comply with the Arizona Native Plant Law.
Precautions: "To minimize the potential introduction or spread of exotic invasive species, including aquatic and terrestrial plants, animals,
insects, and pathogens, the Department encourages taking precautions to wash and/or decontaminate equipment before entering and leaving
the site. See the Arizona Department of Agriculture website for a list of prohibited and restricted noxious weeds and the Arizona Native Plant
Society for recommendations on how to control them. To view a list of documented invasive species or to report invasive species in or near the
project area, visit iMapInvasives, which is a national cloud-based application for tracking and managing invasive species."
Savion will develop a project Worker Environmental Awareness Program for the project. Savion would have AZGFD review the WEAP prior to finalizing.
Trenching: "If trenching or digging of large holes necessary for anchoring project infrastructure will occur for the proposed project, the
Department recommends trenching/digging and backfilling crews be close together to minimize the amount of open holes at any given time.
Where trenches or holes cannot be back-filled immediately, the Department recommends escape ramps be constructed at least every 90
meters. Escape ramps can be short lateral trenches or wooden planks sloping to the surface. The Department recommends that slopes be less
than 45 degrees (1:1) and trenches and holes that have been left open be inspected to remove animals prior to backfilling."
Savion will ensure that trenches will not be open at night, escape ramps can be provided during construction phase. Prior to filling trenches, Savion will survey to ensure no
animals are within these spaces.
Powerlines: "The Department recommends following standards established by the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC) for new
powerlines, which can be found in Suggested Practices for Avian Protection on Power Lines: The State of the Art in 2006 and Reduced Avian
Collisions with Power Lines: The State of the Art in 2012. Birds of prey, such as raptors, owls, vultures, and eagles, are vulnerable to powerline
strikes and electrocution during construction and operation of transmission lines; power poles can also serve as perches for birds of prey. Tuk
Jacobson, the Department’s Raptor Coordinator, can provide further information on specific design features and best management practices;
he can be contacted at raptors@azgfd.gov or 623-236-7575."
Understood, it should be noted that large 500 kV power poles/towers have much greater spacing between transmission lines and thus less prone to collisions by birds.
Revegitation: "The Department recommends revegetating disturbed areas with native drought-tolerant species that represent the natural
surrounding landscape. Landscaping with native plants can help support wildlife and pollinator species in the area while reducing dust and
erosion. In addition, the applicable land management agencies should be consulted regarding guidelines for revegetation efforts."
Savion agrees to revegetate the disturbed land with weed and seed free, drought tolerant native plants. Savion will consult with AZGFD on an appropriate seed mix prior to
construction.
Lighting: "Artificial lighting could impair the ability of nocturnal animals to navigate (e.g., owls, migratory birds, bats, and other nocturnal
mammals) and may affect wildlife behavior and populations (Davies et. al. 2013). The Department recommends using only the minimum
amount of light needed for safety. If feasible, narrow spectrum lighting is wildlife-friendly and should be used as often as possible to minimize
the number of species affected by lighting. It is also beneficial that all lighting is shielded, canted, or cut to minimize the amount of upward
shining light."
Savion agrees to utilize the least amount of lighting required to operate the project safely. The lighting plan would be approved by the county prior to construction. It is
anticipated that motion detection lights would be installed as practicable and where required.
1
Nicholas Schlimm (PND)
From:
RAHN, JENNIFER L CIV USAF AETC 56 FW/CVE <jennifer.rahn@us.af.mil>
Sent:
Thursday, December 14, 2023 10:24 AM
To:
Nicholas Schlimm (PND)
Cc:
56 FW/CIT Community Initiative
Subject:
RE: Z2023133 - Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Notification
Attachments:
RE: CPA2023011 - Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Notification
Good morning Mr. Schlimm,
Luke AFB has no additional concerns provided the applicant has sent the project for review with the DoD Siting
Clearinghouse. Please see the attached previous response letter.
Respectfully,
Jenn Rahn
Senior Planner, Community Initiatives Team
56th Fighter Wing
Luke AFB AZ 85309
Office: 623-856-9981
DSN: 896-9981
From: Nicholas Schlimm (PND) <Nicholas.Schlimm@maricopa.gov>
Sent: Monday, December 11, 2023 12:22 PM
To: Frank McWilliams (MCSO) <FrankMcWilliams@MCSO.maricopa.gov>; Philip Hilliker (MCSO)
<P_Hilliker@MCSO.maricopa.gov>; Teresa Retterbush (PRK) <Teresa.Retterbush@Maricopa.Gov>; bfenske@azdot.gov;
redletter@azdot.gov; gramirez@azdot.gov; pep@azgfd.gov; Teigan Williams <tstruck@azgfd.gov>;
twilliford@azgfd.gov; azshpo@azstateparks.gov; pe@azland.gov; Dan Krantz <dan.krantz@orionprop.com>;
proetto1950@gmail.com; jmcmenemy@hfdaz.org; 56 FW/CIT Community Initiative
<56FW.CIT.CommunityInitiative@us.af.mil>; agarza@azmag.gov; kcotner@azmag.gov; swilken@azmag.gov;
dmheisler1@aol.com; tvcc.events@gmail.com; Christopher Powers <cpowers@savionenergy.com>; Patty Varra
<pvarra@savionenergy.com>; Knox, Richard <richard.knox@woodplc.com>; Skulstad, Jennifer
<jennifer.skulstad@woodplc.com>; Banker, Raymond <raymond.banker@woodplc.com>; Rebekah Flowers
<rebekah.flowers@woodplc.com>
Subject: [Non-DoD Source] Z2023133 - Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Notification
Good afternoon,
The attached document includes the TAC memo for Case Z2023133 (Maricopa Energy Center – Zone Change with
Overlay). Please review the attached memo for instructions to download application materials.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.
Thank you,
2
Nick Schlimm
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
301 W. Jefferson St. #170 Phoenix, AZ 85003
Planner
O: 602-506-0031
MARICOPA.GOV
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube
1
Nicholas Schlimm (PND)
From:
RAHN, JENNIFER L CIV USAF AETC 56 FW/CVE <jennifer.rahn@us.af.mil>
Sent:
Wednesday, July 26, 2023 7:39 AM
To:
Nicholas Schlimm (PND)
Cc:
56 FW/CIT Community Initiative
Subject:
RE: CPA2023011 - Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Notification
Good morning Mr. Schlimm,
I apologize for the delayed response on this proposed development. We worked with the applicant to obtain a .KMZ file
with all the proposed tie-in locations and then plotted them under our military training routes and low-flying routes.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment Application to change the
land use designation from Rural to Utilities in order to develop and operate a solar generating facility. In addition to
photovoltaic solar, this proposed project would also include a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The site contains
approximately 1,150 acres to be added to previously approved acreage for a combined area of 4,265 acres. Ultimately,
the project will contain 160-180ft structures for a connection to a 5.2-mile 500kV transmission line. The proposed site is
located approximately 12 miles west of Tonopah, at Harquahala Valley Road and Camelback Road in unincorporated
Maricopa County, AZ.
As currently proposed, the site is located outside of low-flight corridors and does not impact the flying operations of
Luke AFB. However, please ensure the project is submitted for an informal review through the DoD Siting Clearinghouse
for Energy, Installations, and Environment. Please send the project narrative for review to: osd.dod-siting-
clearinghouse@mail.mil. This response is conditional upon their approval/input.
Thank you,
Jenn Rahn
Senior Planner, Community Initiatives Team
56th Fighter Wing
Luke AFB AZ 85309
Office: 623-856-9981
DSN: 896-9981
From: Nicholas Schlimm (PND) <Nicholas.Schlimm@maricopa.gov>
Sent: Monday, June 19, 2023 8:57 AM
To: Frank McWilliams (MCSO) <FrankMcWilliams@MCSO.maricopa.gov>; Teresa Retterbush (PRK)
<Teresa.Retterbush@Maricopa.Gov>; bfenske@azdot.gov; jgarcia@azdot.gov; redletter@azdot.gov;
gramirez@azdot.gov; EKriwer@AFMA.Az.gov; Kane Nixon <KNixon@AFMA.Az.gov>; twilliford@azgfd.gov; Teigan
Williams <tstruck@azgfd.gov>; Tiffany Sprague <tsprague@azgfd.gov>; azshpo@azstateparks.gov; pe@azland.gov;
Dkrantz@citytocitycre.com; proetto1950@gmail.com; jmcmenemy@hfdaz.org; 56 FW/CIT Community Initiative
<56FW.CIT.CommunityInitiative@us.af.mil>; swilken@azmag.gov; kcotner@azmag.gov; agarza@azmag.gov;
dmheisler1@aol.com; tvcc.events@gmail.com; Skulstad, Jennifer <jennifer.skulstad@woodplc.com>; Knox, Richard
<richard.knox@woodplc.com>
Subject: [URL Verdict: Neutral][Non-DoD Source] CPA2023011 - Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Notification
2
Good morning,
The attached document includes the TAC memo for Case CPA2023011 (Maricopa Energy Center – Major CPA). Please
review the attached memo for instructions to download application materials.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.
Thank you,
Nick Schlimm
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
301 W. Jefferson St. #170 Phoenix, AZ 85003
Planner
O: 602-506-0031
MARICOPA.GOV
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OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
3400 DEFENSE PENTAGON
WASHINGTON, DC 20301-3400
ENERGY, INSTALLATIONS
AND ENVIRONMENT
February 21, 2024
Jennifer Skulstad
Wood PLC
3636 Executive Center Drive; Ste. 100
Austin, TX 78731
Dear Ms. Skulstad,
As requested, the Military Aviation and Installation Assurance Siting Clearinghouse
coordinated within the Department of Defense (DoD) an informal review of the Maricopa
Energy Center Project. The results of our review indicated that the solar project, located in
Maricopa County, Arizona, as proposed, will have minimal impact on military operations
conducted in the area.
Please note that this informal review by the DoD Military Aviation and Installation
Assurance Siting Clearinghouse does not constitute an action under 49 United States Code
Section 44718 and that the DoD is not bound by the conclusion arrived at under this informal
review. To expedite our review in the Obstruction Evaluation Airport Airspace Analysis
(OE/AAA) process, please add the project number 2024-01-S-DEV-34 in the comments section
of the filing. If you have any questions, please contact me at robbin.e.beard.civ@mail.mil.
Sincerely,
Robbin Beard
Deputy Director
Military Aviation and Installation
Assurance Siting Clearinghouse