The solar modules you’ve most likely seen before are called photovoltaic (PV) solar modules. These PV solar modules work by converting light from the sun into electricity. Solar Modules are made of non-hazardous glass and silicone. The silicone in solar modules is split into many layers, the most important of these layers is the semiconductor layer. The two distinct layers (p-type and n-type) are what move electrons through the module creating an electrical charge. The top glass is coated with an antireflective coating to ensure the most sunlight makes it to the semiconductor layer. Buckley will use bifacial modules-meaning they can produce electricity from the top side using direct sunlight, as well as the back side from diffused light, increasing the efficiency of each module and ultimately creating more electricity!

Buckley is directly adjacent to the Buckley substation, allowing us to connect directly to the BPA (Bonneville Power Administration) substation meaning it can easily connect to the grid without needing to build a significant amount of power lines. The land is secluded and away from major towns/neighborhoods to limit viewshed issues. The land is already flat and open, reducing the amount of grading that needs to be done in the project area. The project will be on private land, meaning there will be no public land taken out of public use for this project.

So far, the project has completed wetland and habitat surveys. Both have come back with positive results, solidifying our belief that this is the ideal location for a solar project of this size. The wetlands are primarily down in the valleys, which the project will have no trouble avoiding. The habitat surveys indicated the project will not impact any critical habitats for the area. The project area is currently undergoing the cultural survey, we expect the preliminary results from that survey by the end of 2023.

The Buckley locations is owned by private landowners.

There is a small plot of winter wheat that will be taken out of production while the solar site is operational, but the land can easily be put back into production at the end of its useful life, estimated at 35-40 years. There are no grazing operations on the land.

The conservation of Oregon’s scenic charm, natural habitats and wildlife is a priority for Clēnera. The Buckley project team is committed to working closely with landowners and local experts to ensure environmental awareness. The Buckley layout will be shaped using the information gathered from our pre-construction surveys including but not limited to wetland, habitat and cultural surveys.

A noise analysis will be performed as part of the Oregon Energy Facility Siting Council (EFSC) process, but once operational solar facilities produce almost no noise.

Once the project is complete, we expect 5-6 full-time employees, which will not bring any additional high-volume traffic. This project will cause an increase in traffic during the construction period.

The life span of the project is expected to be 35-40 years.

The site is returned to its original use. Solar is minimally invasive to the land.

Connecting with the community is our top priority. To contact our team please fill out the contact form or email Buckleysolar@clenera.com