Services

The Sunstone Process

Identify and Design

As the first step in the process, Sunstone identifies, investigates, evaluates and secures potential solar sites located in close proximity to the power distribution system and near impoverished and under-served rural communities. Our targeted sites include:

•Abandoned/Under-Utilized Farmland

•Non-Profit Land Assets (example: Historically Black Colleges and Universities)

•Clear-cut timber Properties

•Abandoned or Closed Landfills

•Abandoned Industrial Sites

•Remediated Brownfield Sites

•Surplus Municipal Property

Once a project site is secured, preliminary engineering, site designs, and solar production models are created in compliance with all regulatory requirements. After a positive evaluation of results and economic parameters, the project moves to the next steps in the Sunstone process.

Develop and Finance

Phase Two of the Sunstone Process entails “deep-dive” examination and elimination of any obstacles that may be encountered during the permitting and engineering study period. All concerns -- visual aesthetics, protection of species habitat, avoidance of archaeological features, wetlands delineation, and setbacks from populated areas -- must be addressed in order to prevent project cost overruns and/or delays. Simultaneously, Sunstone begins financial negotiations with the local utility to establish power purchase rates and contract terms for the sale of the solar power output of the project. In addition, Sunstone conducts hearings with local governmental agencies and meets with local residents who may be impacted by, or benefit from the new solar energy facility. As entitlements and permits are approved, the project is presented to Sunstone’s financial partners to secure the funding required for construction and operation of the project.

Construct and Manage

During Phase Three, through its strategic alliances, Sunstone capitalizes on industry partner relationships developed over its 15 years experience developing wind and solar projects. These industry experts have built and continue to operate thousands of Megawatts (MW) of solar projects throughout the USA. This practical expertise and the financial wherewithal of these partners, reduce the overall project risk for Sunstone’s investors and stakeholders. As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, these partnerships and alliances will prove to be crucial to the successful operation of solar energy facilities. Once a facility becomes operational, rigorous implementation of Operation and Maintenance (O&M) procedures are essential to prolonging the useful life of solar equipment – equipment that must last for 30 years. Once again, Sunstone’s relationships with world-class O &M companies ensure operational success and longevity.