File No November Prepared for: Prepared by:

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1 File No Prepared for: wpd Canada Corporation 2233 Argentia Road, Suite 102 Mississauga, ON L5N 2X7 Prepared by: Stantec Consulting Ltd. Suite 1-70 Southgate Drive Guelph ON N1G 4P5

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3 Table of Contents 1.0 OVERVIEW GENERAL INFORMATION CONTACTS AUTHORIZATIONS REQUIRED Provincial Municipal Federal PROJECT INFORMATION ENERGY SOURCES LAND OWNERSHIP PROJECT COMPONENTS Wind Turbine Generators Electrical Infrastructure Access Roads Permanent Water Crossings Temporary Components PROJECT SCHEDULE PROJECT ACTIVITIES Waste Generation and Emissions Hazardous Materials Sewage and Stormwater Management Water-taking Activities DESCRIPTION OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS PROJECT RELATED SETBACKS CLOSURE i

4 Table of Contents List of Tables Table 1.1: Project Description Report Contents Table 1.2: Key Provincial Permits and Authorizations Table 1.3: Key Municipal Permits and Authorizations Table 1.4: Key Federal Permits and Authorizations Table 2.1: Turbine Coordinates Table 2.2: REpower MM92 - Wind Turbine Specifications Table 2.3: Project Schedule Overview Table 2.4: Key Project Activities Table 3.1: Key Potential Project Setbacks List of Appendices Appendix A Project Location and Boundary Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects ii

5 1.0 Overview This document provides a preliminary description of the proposed Napier Wind Project (the Project). This draft Project Description Report has been written in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 (Renewable Energy Approvals under Part V.0.1 of the Act) under the Environmental Protection Act. The information provided herein, and its location within the document, is as follows: Table 1.1: Content Project Description Report Contents 1. Any energy sources to be used to generate electricity at the renewable energy generation facility. 2. The facilities, equipment or technology that will be used to convert the renewable energy source or any other energy source to electricity. Location within Project Description Report Section 2.1 Section If applicable, the class of the renewable energy generation facility. Section The activities that will be engaged in as part of the renewable energy project. Section The name plate capacity of the renewable energy generation facility. Section The ownership of the land on which the project location is to be situated. Section Any negative environmental effects that may result from engaging in the project. 8. An unbound, well marked, legible and reproducible map that is an appropriate size to fit on a 215 millimetre by 280 millimetre page, showing the project location and the land within 300 metres of the project location. Section 3.0 and Appendix B Appendix A 1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION wpd Canada Corporation (wpd) is a renewable energy development company based in Mississauga, Ontario and is dedicated to providing renewable energy for Ontario. Further information can be found on their website at wpd is proposing to develop the Napier Wind Project (the Project) in the Township of Adelaide Metcalfe, County of Middlesex, Ontario, in response to the Government of Ontario s initiative to promote the development of renewable electricity in the province. The Project was awarded a Feed-In-Tariff (FIT) contract with the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) in July, 2011 (F WIN ). The Project is known as the Napier Wind Project, consisting of 2 turbines with a 5.4 MW contracted nameplate capacity. The Project will be located entirely within Middlesex County (Township of Adelaide Metcalfe) in Southwestern Ontario. The Project Area includes two properties located on the north side of Napperton Drive just west of Strathroy. A map showing the Project Location is provided in Appendix A. 1.1

6 Overview 1.2 CONTACTS The proponent for the Project is wpd Canada Corporation (wpd). Contact information is as follows: Name: Khlaire Parré Title: Director of Renewable Energy Approvals Company: wpd Canada Corporation Address: 2233 Argentia Road, Suite 102 Mississauga, ON L5N 2X ext 112 Project Project Telephone: The lead consultant for preparation of the Renewable Energy Approval (REA) application is Stantec Consulting Ltd. (Stantec). Stantec provides professional consulting services in planning, environmental sciences, engineering, architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, surveying, project management, and project economics for infrastructure and facilities projects. The consultant s office and Project contact is: Name: Title: Company: Address: Shawna Peddle Senior Project Manager Stantec Consulting Ltd. Suite 1-70 Southgate Drive Guelph, ON N1G 4P ext 231 Shawna.Peddle@stantec.com 1.3 AUTHORIZATIONS REQUIRED According to subsection 4.(3) of Ontario Regulation 359/09, the proposed Napier Wind Project is a Class 4 facility that will require a REA. At the provincial, municipal and federal level multiple permits and authorizations may be required to facilitate the development of the Project, in addition to the REA. The ultimate applicability of all permits and authorizations will be determined during the REA process and based upon the Project s detailed design. 1.2

7 Overview Provincial Several permits and authorizations may be required at the provincial level (Table 1.2). Table 1.2: Key Provincial Permits and Authorizations Key Permit / Administering Agency Rationale Authorization Approval of Connection IESO Electrical interconnect with IESO regulated network Connection Assessment IESO Integration of project with IESO-controlled transmission system Customer Impact Assessment Connection Cost Recovery Agreement (CCRA) System Impact Assessment Development, Interference with Wetlands, and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Permit Certificate of Inspection Hydro One Networks Inc. (HONI) HONI IESO St. Clair Region Conservation Authority Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) Integration of project with Hydro One and effects to customers Recovery of costs to grid operator of changes to allow connection Integration of project with IESO-controlled transmission system Work within floodplains, water crossings, river or stream valleys, hazardous lands and within or adjacent to wetlands. Projects requiring review, Fisheries Act authorization and/or assessment under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act are forwarded to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) A record that electrical work complies with the requirements of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. Generator s License Ontario Energy Board (OEB) Generation of electrical power for sale to grid Notice of Project Ministry of Labour Notify the Ministry of Labour before construction begins. Special vehicle configuration permit Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Use of non-standard vehicles to transport large components Transportation Plan MTO Adherence to road safety and suitability Change of Access and Heavy/Oversize Load MTO Compliance with provincial highway traffic and road safety regulations Transportation Permit Wide or excess load permit MTO Transportation of large or heavy items on provincial highways Municipal Several permits and authorizations may be required from Middlesex County and the Township of Adelaide Metcalfe (Table 1.3); these will be confirmed during the municipal consultation process as set out under O. Reg. 359/09. Table 1.3: Key Municipal Permits and Authorizations Key Permit / Authorization Rationale Building Permit Compliance with building codes Change of Use Permit/Transfer of Ownership Permit Required prior to changing the use/owner of a permitted 1.3

8 Overview Table 1.3: Key Municipal Permits and Authorizations Key Permit / Authorization Rationale building Demolition Permit Required prior to the demolition of the Project Entrance Permit Entrance from county roads Oversize/Overweight Permit Transportation of heavy and/or large items on county roads Road Occupancy and Access Permit Entrance from township and county roads Sign Permit As necessary Federal It is expected that a Federal Screening report will not be required for the Project, as it is not anticipated that it will cause a trigger under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. However, the agency consultation program for the Project will include all federal departments and agencies typically interested in wind power projects (e.g., Department of National Defense, Environmental Canada, Transport Canada, etc.). All required federal permits and authorizations required for the Project will be determined during the REA process, but may include those listed in Table 1.4. Table 1.4: Key Federal Permits and Authorizations Permit / Authorization Administering Agency Rationale Aeronautical Obstruction Clearance Transport Canada Aviation Division Turbine lighting and marking Land Use Clearance NavCanada Aeronautical safety mapping and designations Scientific Collector s Permit under the Migratory Bird Convention Act, 1994 (MBCA) Environment Canada/Canadian Wildlife Service Allow the wind company and its agents to collect, possess, to utilize for scientific research purposes, deceased specimens of migratory birds obtained from the study area during post-construction monitoring 1.4

9 2.0 Project Information 2.1 ENERGY SOURCES The Project will utilize wind as the source of energy. 2.2 LAND OWNERSHIP The Project will be located on privately owned lands within Middlesex County, as shown on the Project map (Appendix A). The legal description of the parcels of land that will be used for Project will be provided as part of the REA application. 2.3 PROJECT COMPONENTS This section provides a general description of the major equipment and infrastructure associated with operation of the Project. The preliminary project description provided in this document will be refined and finalized as wpd proceeds through the REA process Wind Turbine Generators The Project will utilize 2 REpower MM MW wind turbines. Turbine coordinates for the Project are shown in Table 2.1 below. Table 2.1: Turbine # Turbine Coordinates Easting UTM NAD83 Zone 17 Northing UTM NAD83 Zone A summary of the basic specifications of the turbine model is provided in Table 2.2 below. Table 2.2: REpower MM92 - Wind Turbine Specifications Manufacturer REpower Model MM92 Name plate capacity (MW) 2.05 MW Hub height above grade 100 m Blade length 45.2 m Rotor diameter 92.5 m Rotor sweep area 6,720 m 2 Nominal revolutions (rotational speed) rpm Frequency 60 Hz Sound power 5 m/s dba 6 m/s dba 7 m/s dba >8 m/s dba 2.1

10 Project Information Electrical Infrastructure A step-up transformer, adjacent to each turbine, is required to transform the electricity generated in the nacelle to a common collection system line voltage (i.e. 575 V to 44 kv). Each step-up transformer will be connected to the Project s collection system via 44 kv underground collector lines. The collector lines will be buried parallel to the access roads to reduce the amount of land to be used by the Project and thus reduce potential effects. The collector lines will carry the electricity to the switching station at Napperton Road where it will flow through a feeder line to tie into the Hydro One Networks Inc. distribution network. The connection point for the feeder line is at the Corner of Katesville Dr. & Kerwood Rd. The switching station will contain metering and isolating equipment and grounding and control systems. The fenced gravel pad will be approximately 30 m x 40 m and will include a small control building (unserviced), cable terminator points, and surface arresters Access Roads Approximately m of new access roads will be constructed to support construction and transportation vehicles to each turbine site and for use during the operation phase of the Project. Access roads have been planned in consultation with the landowners. Access roads will be approximately 5.0 m wide post-construction Permanent Water Crossings Preliminary investigations suggest that no culvert installations will be required for the access roads and associated underground electrical collector lines. In the event that crossings are required; a permit would be obtained from the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) and/or the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Temporary Components Lands to be temporarily used during construction are staging areas for access road construction, delivery truck turnaround areas, staging areas at each turbine location, and crane laydown areas. Any temporary structures used during construction would not be serviced, and would be placed within the delineated construction work areas. The land use prior to construction at all of these areas is agricultural. Following construction activities, all temporary work locations would be restored to pre-impact conditions. Restoration work would start following installation of each wind turbine and removal of all construction materials and equipment from each turbine site. This includes removal of the granular and geotextile material from applicable areas. Restoration activities would follow the Site Restoration Plan that will be developed as part of the Decommissioning Plan Report. 2.2

11 Project Information Turbine Staging Areas A staging area within the construction area at each turbine site will be used for temporary storage of the turbine components, parking, and a foundation spoil (excavated soil from foundation area) pile. Turbine components will be delivered directly to the staging areas for temporary storage until assembled. Staging areas would not be excavated or gravelled, and would be restored to preexisting conditions at the end of the construction phase. Turbine staging areas would be actively used throughout the construction phase, to varying degrees during all construction activities at the turbine sites. Crane Laydown Areas A heavy-lift crawler crane would be used to assemble the turbines. The movement of the crane between turbine sites would take place along access roads and municipal roads where possible. Crane laydown areas are temporary platforms and will parallel access roads, where possible, and would be put in place at the same time as the access roads. The crane laydown area would be approximately 6 m x 142 m. Access Road Staging Areas A 15.0 m staging area will be used for construction of the 5.0 m wide access road. Portions of the laydown areas may be reduced or moved on a site-by-site basis to avoid natural features, where possible. The timing of the temporary use of land for the access road staging areas would begin with the construction of the access roads and these areas would be rehabilitated at the end of the construction phase. The duration of time that the land would be actively used is expected to be four months. Delivery Truck Turnaround Areas All sites require turnaround areas for delivery trucks. These turnaround areas would be the same width as access roads, and would be constructed in the same manner, including the requirement for staging areas. The timing of the temporary use of land for the delivery truck turnaround areas would begin with the construction of the access roads and these areas would be restored to pre-existing conditions, as possible, at the end of the construction phase. The duration of time that the land would be actively used is expected to be four months. Access Road Entrances Access road entrances off the municipal roads will require a wider turning radius for construction/delivery vehicles. Entrances would be approximately 30m wide during the construction phase, and reduced to 5.0 m at the end of the construction phase. All dimensions will be discussed with the municipality during the municipal consultation and permitting process. 2.3

12 Project Information 2.4 PROJECT SCHEDULE Table 2.3 provides an overview of the projected dates associated with the Project. Table 2.3: Project Schedule Overview Milestone Approximate Date Initiate Public REA Process REA technical studies Ongoing through to early 2012 Public Meeting #1 December 2011 Draft REA Reports to Public Spring 2012 Public Meeting #2 Spring/Summer 2012 REA Approval Fall 2012 Start of Construction Fall 2012 Contract Date for Commercial Operation (COD) Summer 2014 Repowering/Decommissioning Approximately 20.5 years after COD 2.5 PROJECT ACTIVITIES A general overview of the activities during construction, operation, and decommissioning phases of the Project is provided in Table 2.4. Table 2.4: Key Project Activities Project Phase Activities Turbine Sites Delineation of temporary work areas Preparation of laydown areas Access road construction Completion of necessary site grading Installation of tower and panel foundations Installation of crane pads Construction Tower/turbine erection and panel installation Installation of step-up transformer and required wiring Installation of collector lines, usually parallel to access roads Reclamation of temporary work areas Site landscaping (final grading, topsoil replacement, etc.) Off-Site Activities Installation of switching station Installation of collector lines Turbine Sites Preventative maintenance Unplanned maintenance Access road routine maintenance and snow clearing Operation Meter calibrations Grounds keeping Off-Site Activities Preventative maintenance on switching station 2.4

13 Project Information Table 2.4: Project Phase Decommissioning Key Project Activities Activities Unplanned maintenance on switching station Electrical line maintenance and inspection Turbine Sites Removal of turbine infrastructure Removal of step-up transformers Site grading (dependent upon new proposed use) Possible removal of access roads dependent upon agreement with property owner Possible excavation and removal of collector lines depending upon agreement with property owner Off-Site Activities Possible removal of collector system Possible removal of switching station Waste Generation and Emissions Waste Generation During construction, waste material produced by the Project is expected to consist of construction material (e.g., excess fill/soil, scrap lumber, banding, plastic wrap removed from palletized goods, etc.) and a small amount of domestic waste. Similar waste material may be generated during decommissioning. Waste will be generated as a result of ongoing maintenance activities (e.g., used lubricants and oils). All wastes will be handled and recycled or disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements. Further details on waste management and disposal will be developed during the REA process. Emissions During construction, dust, noise and vehicle emissions will be generated as a result of operating heavy equipment and due to construction related traffic and various construction activities (e.g., excavation, grading, etc.). Similar emissions may be expected during decommissioning. During operation, air emissions will be restricted to the operation of maintenance vehicles. Noise emissions from the Project will be assessed in detail during the REA process. All emissions will be managed within the limits set by regulatory requirements Hazardous Materials Hazardous materials on-site are limited to fuel, lubricating oils, and other fluids associated with project construction, maintenance and operation. These materials are contained within Project components. Typical containment facilities and emergency response materials will be maintained on-site as required. Disposal of any hazardous materials will be in accordance with 2.5

14 Project Information regulatory requirements. The process for final disposal of any hazardous waste will be developed during the REA process Sewage and Stormwater Management Sanitary waste generated by the construction crew will be collected via portable toilets and wash stations supplied by the construction contractor. Disposal of these wastes will be the responsibility of the contracted party and will be done in accordance with regulatory requirements Water-taking Activities Depending on groundwater levels, some dewatering activities may be required during the turbine foundation excavation; however withdrawal amounts are anticipated to be below 50,000 l/d. More information on water-taking activities will be provided later in the REA process. 2.6

15 3.0 Description of Potential Environmental Effects The effects of constructing, operating, and maintaining a renewable energy facility are well understood and can be typically mitigated through well known and accepted techniques and practices. A screening of potential issues and effects on environmental features relevant to the Project was undertaken (Appendix B). Based upon the screening of environmental features, site investigations and records reviews, the proposed Project site plan, experience gained during Project planning, and the requirements of the REA process, Project-specific issues and potential effects have been identified and will be further assessed as part of the REA application process: Heritage and Archaeological Resources; Natural Heritage Resources; Air, Odour, Dust; Environmental Noise; Land Use and Resources; Provincial and Local Infrastructure; and, Public Health and Safety. Detailed descriptions of the potential effects, mitigation measures, and contingency plans related to these features during the construction, operation, and decommissioning phases of the Project will be provided in the REA application and summarized in the final Project Description Report. 3.1 PROJECT RELATED SETBACKS A key component of the REA process is the establishment of common setbacks for all renewable energy facilities in the Province. Where Project related infrastructure will be located within the setbacks, additional analysis (i.e., Environmental Impact Study) will be provided in the REA application and summarized in the final Project Description Report. Key setbacks which will be applied throughout the design of the Project are as follows: 3.1

16 Description of Potential Environmental Effects Table 3.1: Key Potential Project Setbacks Feature Setback Distance Study Alternative When Within Setback Non-participating receptor Public road right-ofway and railway rightof-way Property line Petroleum resources operation Provincially significant southern wetland Provincially significant ANSI (Earth Science) Provincially significant ANSI (Life Science) 550 m (from turbine base) Turbine blade length + 10 m (from turbine base) Turbine height (excluding blades) (from turbine base) An Environmental Noise Impact Assessment will be completed for the Project according to MOE Noise Guidelines. N/A Does not apply to parcels of land if the abutting parcel of land is a participant in the Project or if it is demonstrated that the wind turbine will not result in adverse impacts on nearby business, infrastructure, properties or land use activities. 75 m * Development and site alteration may be possible within setback area; engineering report required. 120 m * Development not permitted within feature. Development and site alteration may be possible within setback area; EIS required. 50 m * Development and site alteration may be possible within natural feature and setback area; EIS required. 120 m * Development and site alteration may be possible within natural feature and setback area; EIS required. Significant valleyland 120 m * Development and site alteration may be possible within natural feature and setback area; EIS required. Significant woodland 120 m * Development and site alteration may be possible within natural feature and setback area; EIS required. Significant wildlife habitat Lake Lake Trout lake that is at or above development capacity Permanent or intermittent stream 120 m * Development and site alteration may be possible within natural feature and setback area; EIS required. 120 m from the average annual high water mark * 300 m from the average annual high water mark * 120 m from the average annual high water mark * Development and site alteration may be possible within water body and setback area; additional report required. Development and site alteration may be possible within water body and setback area; additional report required. No turbine or transformer located within a permanent or intermittent stream or within 30 m of the average annual high water mark. Development and site alteration may be possible within setback area; additional report required. Seepage area 120 m * No turbine or transformer located within 30 m of a seepage area. Development and site alteration may be possible within setback area; additional report required Note: No areas protected under specified Provincial Policies and Plans (i.e., Greenbelt Plan, Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan, Niagara Escarpment Plan, or the Lake Simcoe Watershed Plan); all related setbacks have therefore been removed from the list. * Setback distances are measured from Project location as defined in O. Reg. 359/

17 4.0 Closure This report has been prepared by Stantec Consulting Ltd. for the sole benefit of wpd, and may not be used by any third party without the express written consent of wpd Canada Corporation and Stantec Consulting Ltd. The data presented in this report are in accordance with Stantec s understanding of the Project as it was presented at the time of the Report. STANTEC CONSULTING LTD. Mark Kozak, BES Project Manager Shawna Peddle, MSc. Senior Project Manager 4.1

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19 Appendix A Project Location and Boundary

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21 tree t Pe tty S Crathie Drive School Road Egremont Drive Seed Road Morse Road Robotham Road Cuddy Drive Drive Harford Wetland (AB 9) Albert Street t ts on Fr et re Ea st Strathroy Kerwood Swamp ME3 Hardy Creek Wetland (SC 13) Churchill Line Sexton Road Hardy Creek Swamp (SC 14) Denning Road D riv s D ri v oa d e hm e er D riv e s D ri v e In e al ad D riv e Longwoods Woodlot Wetland Complex (SC 6) 0 d oa 1 2 1:100,000 oa d d oa al W r ke R Burdon Road r ke c ot Sc d R R e e l ie fa ir la nd R Brady Road od ge gf in ay al r ve td ri v he r ak Napier Road D r Sp M Su t d oa al W Melwood Drive Melwood Conservation Area (SC5) R O Patterson Drive e n le Napier Swamp SC-16 n ur bo el C Murphy Drive La Salle Line Petrolia Line M Kellam Road Kerwood Road Salem Road Katesville Drive G Hardy Creek Road Komoka/South Strathroy Creek Wetland (SC 9) Sydenham River Wetlands Complex Napperton Drive " ) 2Nd Street Head Street North R2 Centre Road Brown Road Drury Lane Confederation Line R1 Pike Road Donnelly Road Mullifarry Drive Victoria Street Highway R oa d Wya tt Sp rin g Wilson Road Wisbeach Road Arkona Road d oa R Brick Yard Line Zion Line in Wa rd ell Egremont Road W:\active\ \drawing\MXD\REA_Reports\PDR\ _Fig1_ProjectBoundary_ mxd Revised: By: pworsell b ub en d L ine cc To wn s Langan Drive M Birnam Line o ad ba n k R O D e km ld ri v e November, Legend Project Boundary Highway Access Road Watercourse Proposed Wind Turbine Collector Line Feeder Line Switching Station " ) Notes Client/Project Road Waterbody Provincially Significant Wetland Other/Locally Signficant Wetland Wooded Area Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 17N Base features produced under license with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Queen's Printer for Ontario, WPD Canada Corp. Napier Wind Project Figure No. 1 Title Project Boundary Location

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23 Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects

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25 NAPIER WIND FARM - DRAFT Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects Appendix B Napier Wind Farm - Overview of Potential Environmental Effects 1. Heritage and Archaeological Resources 1.1 Protected properties and heritage resources Protected properties and heritage resources may be located within the Project Study Area; there is potential for these features to be affected during construction. Project siting will avoid these areas to the greatest extent possible. A Protected Properties and Heritage Assessment will be undertaken for the Project, which will evaluate potential effects to these features, and propose measures to avoid, eliminate or mitigate these effects. This report will be reviewed and commented on by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture prior to submission of the REA application. 1.2 Archaeological resources There is potential for archaeological resources to be affected, if present, during construction, including direct disturbance (such as physical removal) from any subsurface works required during construction, including installation of access roads, collector lines, and foundations. Stage 1 and potentially Stage 2 Archaeological Assessments will be undertaken for the Project to identify and document archaeological resources within the Project construction area and provide recommendations regarding additional work required prior to or during construction. These reports will be reviewed and commented on by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture prior to submission of the REA application. 2. Natural Heritage Resources 2.1 Wetlands A wetland (unevaluated) is located within the Project Study Area. Project siting will avoid this area. No Project related activities will occur within provincially significant wetlands. Wetlands may be affected during construction if installation of Project infrastructure takes place within 120 m. Potential effects may be related to sedimentation from earth moving activities or stockpiled material, accidental spills, or direct loss of non-provincially significant wetland areas if Project components are sited in these features. If Project infrastructure is located within 120 m of a provincially significant wetland, an Environmental Impact Study will be conducted to identify the potential effects and propose measures to avoid, eliminate, or mitigate these effects. This report will be reviewed and commented on by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources prior to submission of the REA application. Page 1 of 8

26 NAPIER WIND FARM - DRAFT Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects Appendix B Napier Wind Farm - Overview of Potential Environmental Effects 2.2 Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSIs) No ANSIs are located within the Project Study Area. earth or life science 2.3 Valleylands and hazard lands No valleylands or hazard lands have been identified, however further work will take place with the conservation authority and municipality to identify natural features within the Project Study Area. Permit applications to the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority and/or the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for watercourse crossings (likely not required for the Project) will be obtained prior to construction, and will include standard mitigation measures. If Project infrastructure is located within 120 m of a significant valleyland, an Environmental Impact Study will be conducted to identify potential effects and propose measures to avoid, eliminate, or mitigate these effects. This report will be reviewed and commented on by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources prior to submission of the REA application. 2.4 Woodlands A small woodland (approximately 2.5 ha) is located within the Project Study Area. No Project infrastructure will be located within the feature and no potential effects are anticipated. If Project infrastructure is located within 120 m of significant woodland, an Environmental Impact Study will be conducted to identify the potential effects and propose measures to avoid, eliminate, or mitigate these effects. This report will be reviewed and commented on by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources prior to submission of the REA application. 2.5 Provincial park and conservation reserves No provincial parks or conservation reserves are located within the Project Study Area. 2.6 Other designated natural areas No other designated natural areas have been identified within the Project Study Area. 2.7 Significant wildlife species and wildlife habitat The Natural Heritage Information Centre and the Ministry of Natural Resources have identified historical sightings of species at risk within the general area of the Project. Habitats within the Project Study Area are not likely to support such species and thus there is minimal potential to affect these species directly or indirectly (e.g. disruption/alteration of the habitat). Significant wildlife habitat may be present in the Project Study Area. If Project Page 2 of 8

27 NAPIER WIND FARM - DRAFT Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects Appendix B Napier Wind Farm - Overview of Potential Environmental Effects infrastructure is located within 120 m of significant wildlife habitat, an Environmental Impact Study will be conducted to identify the potential effects and propose measures to avoid, eliminate, or mitigate these effects. This report will be reviewed and commented on by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources prior to submission of the REA application. 2.8 Other wildlife and wildlife habitat Bird, mammal, amphibian and reptile species are known to use the features within the Project Study Area. Construction and operation of the Project has the potential to disturb wildlife (including mortality from direct collisions with Project infrastructure) and wildlife habitat. 2.9 Significant flora species and vegetation communities The Natural Heritage Information Centre and the Ministry of Natural Resources have identified significant flora species within the general area of the Project. There is minimal potential to affect these species during construction as the Project will be located within areas already cleared for rural and agricultural use Other flora species and vegetation communities The Project will be located within areas already cleared for rural and agricultural land uses. There is minimal potential to affect these communities during construction as the Project will be located within areas already cleared for rural and agricultural use. Potential effects may result from works within 120 m of a feature Fish and fish habitat As there are no watercourses in the vicinity of Project infrastructure, works are not likely to be within areas of fish and fish habitat. Where required, mitigation measures will be utilized to reduce or eliminate potential effects. If required, permit applications to the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority and/or the Department of Fisheries and Oceans will be obtained prior to construction and will include standard mitigation measures. If Project infrastructure is located within 120 m, or within, an area of fish habitat, an Environmental Impact Study will be conducted to identify the potential effects and propose measures to avoid, eliminate, or mitigate these effects. This report will be reviewed and commented on by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources prior to submission of the REA application. Page 3 of 8

28 NAPIER WIND FARM - DRAFT Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects Appendix B Napier Wind Farm - Overview of Potential Environmental Effects 3. Water Bodies 3.1 Surface water (watercourses) quality, quantities, or flow Watercourses are located within the Project Study Area, however are unlikely to be located within the Project Location or within 120 m of the Project Location. Turbines and transformers will not be located within 30 m of water features. The proposed development does not involve the storage or consumption of surface water, and does not require significant alteration of surface runoff patterns. Surface water quality could be affected by accidental spills/releases to the environment and sedimentation and/or erosion during construction of access roads. If Project infrastructure is located within 120 m of a water body, a Water Body Report will be prepared that identifies and assesses potential effects and proposes measures to avoid, eliminate, or mitigate these effects. 3.2 Groundwater quality, quantity, or movement It is possible that some dewatering activities may be required when installing Project infrastructure (e.g. tower foundations). Information will be gathered related to depth of groundwater in the Project area prior to start of construction. Withdrawal quantities will be below 50,000 l/d and are unlikely to affect groundwater quality or quantity. There is potential to affect quality of water wells in close proximity to the construction sites by accidental spills/releases to the environment. 4. Air Quality 4.1 Emissions of pollutants or greenhouse gases Construction equipment will generate emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases; however this will be short in duration and limited in extent. Operation of the Project will not result in negative effects on air quality, as wind turbines do not generate emissions of pollutants or greenhouse gases. 4.2 Emission of dust or odour During construction dust may be generated from earthmoving or vehicular activity any emissions will be short-term in duration and limited to the lands surrounding the work areas. No odour emissions will result from construction, operation, or decommissioning of the Project. No dust will result from operations, except from driving on roads during maintenance. Page 4 of 8

29 NAPIER WIND FARM - DRAFT Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects Appendix B Napier Wind Farm - Overview of Potential Environmental Effects 5. Noise 5.1 Emission of noise There will be an increase in ambient environmental noise during construction related to increased traffic, operation of construction equipment, and construction activities. Mechanical and aerodynamic noise will be emitted from the wind turbines, and noise will be emitted from the transformers at the base of each turbine. There is potential for limited environmental noise effects at sensitive receptors. For the wind turbines, a detailed environmental noise impact assessment will be undertaken as per the MOE s document Noise Guidelines for Wind Farms - Interpretation for Applying MOE NPC Publications to Wind Power Generation Facilities (October 2008). 6. Land-Use and Resources 6.1 Existing land uses The Project is located in a rural and agricultural area. Lands for Project infrastructure will be required for the lease period, and during this time, these lands will be changed from their present land-use. Potential effects are related to the change in land use (i.e., from agricultural use to Project related use). 6.2 Local businesses and facilities Area businesses may benefit financially from spending associated with construction activities and fulfilling operational supplies. 6.3 Recreation areas Public recreation areas are not located within the Project Study Area. No effects are anticipated during the construction or operation phase. 6.4 Landfill sites Construction wastes, such as excavated soils, equipment packaging and wrappings, and scraps, will be produced. The Project will generate waste associated with turbine construction, maintenance and operation, and decommissioning. A waste collection and disposal management plan will be developed for each phase of the Project. No negative effects are anticipated on local landfill sites. 6.5 Agricultural lands Project infrastructure will occupy areas of agricultural land and potential effects are related to the change in use of the agricultural land. The operation of the Project will not negatively affect the use of adjoining agricultural lands, field crop production, or livestock pasturing, all of which can occur in close proximity to the Project. The 2005 Provincial Policy Statement contains policies that support the establishment of renewable facilities in rural and agricultural areas. Page 5 of 8

30 NAPIER WIND FARM - DRAFT Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects Appendix B Napier Wind Farm - Overview of Potential Environmental Effects 6.6 Mineral, aggregate, or petroleum resources There are no known petroleum resources within the Project Study Area (i.e., natural gas wells). No potential effects are anticipated to existing mineral or aggregate resources. If Project infrastructure is located within 75 m of petroleum wells or works, it will be identified during the Natural Heritage Assessment. This report will be reviewed and commented on by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Additional consultations will be undertaken with the Petroleum Resources Centre to avoid potential effects to these features. 6.7 Forest resources Forest resources are not located in the Project Study Area. 6.8 Game and fishery resources, including creating access to previously inaccessible areas The area has been cleared for agriculture and there are no areas that could be deemed inaccessible. It is unlikely that potential fisheries resources may be affected by the construction of the Project during work in/near water. 6.9 Remediation of contaminated land History of the area is rural and agricultural, therefore there is limited potential for contaminated sites; however, the possibility of encountering such lands cannot be completely ruled out Telecommunications network There is potential to interfere with telecommunications networks. Potential effects may be due to infrastructure being located within the line of sight of telecommunications networks, or due to interference with radar systems. Consultation with appropriate agencies regarding potential effects to these systems will be undertaken for the Project. 7. Provincial and Local Infrastructure 7.1 Provincial and other major infrastructure There is potential for an increase of traffic during construction on provincial roads and the transport of equipments and supplies. Potential effects are related to traffic congestion/safety and road damage from construction equipment and excess loads. Other provincial infrastructure in proximity to the Project location, when known, will be identified as part of the records reviews and site investigations completed for the REA process. 7.2 Local infrastructure and services The transport of equipment and supplies during the construction phase will result in additional (temporary) road use and traffic to the Project sites; some of this traffic will be carrying excess loads and large tower components. Excess loads and numerous truck trips may deteriorate local roads. Municipal consultations will include discussions regarding mitigation and potential compensation should municipal roads be affected by the Project. Page 6 of 8

31 NAPIER WIND FARM - DRAFT Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects Appendix B Napier Wind Farm - Overview of Potential Environmental Effects During operation supplies will be intermittently delivered to the Project as required. Other local infrastructure in proximity to the Project Location will be identified in consultation with local municipalities. Discussions with local municipalities will include measures to avoid or mitigate potential effects to this infrastructure. The construction period will result in additional demand for local goods and services. A limited number of operating personnel may be required to maintain the facility; therefore there will be only a nominal demand on/for public services (e.g., housing, hospitals, and schools). To the extent possible local goods and services will be procured during construction, operation and maintenance and decommissioning of the Project where these are available in sufficient quantity and quality and at competitive prices. 8. Public Health and Safety 8.1 Public health and safety Potential effects during construction are generally associated with increased traffic in the Project Boundary and unauthorized access to the work areas. Health and safety protocols and procedures will be developed during the REA process and by the construction contractor. Potential exists for accidents and malfunctions during operation and thus there may be general public safety concerns with the new infrastructure. Health and safety protocols and procedures will be developed during the REA process and prior to Project commissioning. A review of existing information related to health effects from turbines will be completed as part of the REA process. The Project while operating will not contribute green house gases or other atmospheric pollutants and thus no public health concerns have been identified. 9. Areas Protected under Provincial Plans and Policies 9.1 Greenbelt (Protected Countryside and Natural Heritage System), Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area, Niagara Escarpment Plan Area, Lake Simcoe Watershed Plan Area No areas protected under specified Provincial Plans and Policies are located within the Project Study Area. 10. Aboriginal 10.1 First Nations or other Aboriginal communities Aboriginal communities identified by provincial and federal governments will be engaged as part of the REA process. Page 7 of 8

32 NAPIER WIND FARM - DRAFT Appendix B Overview of Potential Environmental Effects Appendix B Napier Wind Farm - Overview of Potential Environmental Effects Potential effects to aboriginal or treaty rights, and measures for mitigation, will be identified during engagement with the aboriginal communities. 11. Other 11.1 Aeronautical obstruction One or both of the wind turbines may require aviation safety lighting. Specific lighting requirements will be determined by Transport Canada Interference with Navigable waters The Project will not cross or affect a potentially navigable waterway. Page 8 of 8