Sumac Ridge Project Description Report Summary

Transcription

1 Sumac Ridge Project Description Report Summary This summary is being prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 as a part of the stakeholder outreach for the Renewable Energy Approval process. The information contained in this summary is meant to be used in conjunction with the official REA reporting. Project Information & Location wpd Canada Corporation (wpd Canada) is proposing the development of a new onshore wind facility located in the City of Kawartha Lakes, within the former Township of Manvers, Ontario. The proposed Sumac Ridge Wind Project (Project) is located on privately owned lands. The Project was awarded a Feed-in Tariff (FIT) contract, for a maximum 11.5 MW facility, in April of The terms of the FIT contract require the proponent to commission the Project by July 14, The Project involves construction, operation and decommissioning of five REPower MM 92 wind turbines, 2.05 MW each. The Project requires upgrades to existing municipal roads and construction of new private access roads to the turbine sites. In order to connect to the Hydro One Networks Inc. (HONI) distribution system, construction of a new 44 kv overhead electrical connection line will occur, which will connect with an existing distribution line located along HWY 35 and running to the Wilson Transmission Station. The Project has been previously known as the Ballyduff Wind Project. The Project name was changed to avoid duplication with other proposed Projects in the area. The project site is depicted in Figure 1, the operating footprint of the site is 4.52 ha in total. Table 1: Description of the Energy Source Wind Turbine Type and Model: REpower MM92 Name plate capacity: 2.05 MW Wind farm total capacity: 10.25MW Hub Height: 100 Metres Blade length: 45.2 Metres Blade swept area 6720 M 2 Rotational speed: 73.8 to 15.0 rpm (+ 12.5%) Maximum tip speed: 72.6 m/s Maximum acoustic emissions (95% rated): db 1

2 Proponent Contact: wpd Canada Corporation Khlaire Parré Director of Renewable Energy Approvals 2233 Argentia Road, Suite 102 Mississauga, Ontario; L5N 2X7 Tel: (905) , Ext Fax: (905) Associated Facilities & Equipment Temporary Structures Concrete Foundations Pad Mounted Transformers Gravel Access Roads Graveled Laydown areas, Crane Assembly Areas and Crane Pads 44kV Underground Collector System 44kV Aboveground Electrical Line Switching Station Below Ground Communications Line Wild Turkey Roadway Widening New Graveled Short Cut Road Between Ballyduff Road and Wild Turkey Road (Private) In support of construction activities at the Sumac Ridge Wind Project, a parking and construction trailer/site office location may be required. This area will be a temporary and is depicted in Figure 1. All other infrastructure related to the Project is intended to remain for the entire lifecycle of the project. 2

3 Figure 1: Site Location Further information can be found in the following report: Sumac Ridge Wind Project Description Report. Prepared by ORTECH Environmental. March

4 Sumac Ridge Construction Report Summary This summary is being prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 as a part of the stakeholder outreach for the Renewable Energy Approval process. The information contained in this summary is meant to be used in conjunction with the official REA reporting. Project Components: five (5) REpower MM MW wind turbine generators step up transformers near the base of each turbine 44kV collector line system switching station turbine access roads Temporary components during construction: staging areas for access roads and underground cable construction crane pads, laydown areas and crane assembly areas wider turning areas for delivery of components The REpower MM92 generates power at 575 V. A pad mounted step-up transformer will be located near the base of each turbine to transform the power generated upwards to 44 kv in order to connect to the Hydro One Networks Inc. (HONI) distribution system. 44kV underground collector lines will deliver electricity from each turbine to a common connection point near Turbine 3. Construction of the underground collector lines will be done using trenches, and excavation of substrate will be required. All materials removed will be used to backfill the trenching after the lines have been installed and inspected. The collector line exiting Turbine 3 will become an above ground line travelling 1.9 km along Gray Road to the switching station. The above ground line will require the installation of new wooden poles. The holes for the poles will be backfilled using the substrate which was extracted during auguring, the area will then be compacted. The switching station will be located on the south west corner of Gray Road, and will consist of a 30m x 45m area enclosed by a chain link fence, a small driveway 4.2m by 43.5m and a 10m x 10m Switching Station. The Project will also require construction of ancillary components such as access roads, crane pads, laydown areas and crane assembly areas. Some municipal roadway upgrades will be required to facilitate delivery of project components to the project site, and coordination will be undertaken with the appropriate municipal authorities. The REpower MM92 is a gear driven turbine; the major components such as the generator, gearbox, converter and braking system are located on top of the tower in the nacelle. Sensors within the nacelle communicate with operations software (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system) which controls the operations and direction of the turbine. The nacelle and blades of each turbine will sit atop a 100 metre tower, supported by the construction of a concrete foundation. It is estimated that each foundation will be up to 3m deep and 18m in diameter. Each foundation will be designed according to the site conditions at each turbine location. Environmental Effect, Mitigation and Monitoring Ground Water & Water Takings: Construction activities which occur in areas of high aquifer vulnerability may result in hazardous materials coming into contact with ground water, including the Aquifer protected under the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. The Sumac Ridge project is a relatively small development with limited interactions with the aquifer area. In order to mitigate any potential impacts however, no hazardous materials transfer will occur in areas of high aquifer vulnerability, employees will be trained as per industry standards, and spill contingency planning and equipment will be provided during construction. Geotechnical studies will be conducted to confirm that the site locations will not impact the local aquifer, and consideration will be given to alternate turbine foundation designs. Surface, Storm Water & Waterbodies: Construction activities such as clearing and excavation may result in sedimentation and soil compaction which may impact Surface Water in the area. Excavation of wind turbine foundations may require dewatering as a result of inclement weather, which may result in localized erosion. In order to mitigate any potential impacts, work in and around watercourses is to be conducted when the streams have dried up during the summer, and effective erosion and sediment control plan will be developed and implemented. Site grading shall be conducted to ensure that surface runoff is directed away from areas of concern and that the natural drainage of the area is maintained. The size of disturbed areas with fallow soils is to be minimized, and foundation dewatering activities will occur away from waterbodies and surface runoff will be controlled. 1

5 Natural Heritage: Removal of trees along Gray Road Trail, as well as installation of components required for Turbine 1, will occur within a Significant Woodland. Increased construction activity may result in disruption to breeding birds, as well as result in some disruption and alteration of hedgerows, agricultural field habitat, significant woodlot and a variety of non-bat mammals and herpetofauna. In order to mitigate any potential impacts, proper arboricultural practices will be followed. The drip line of the vegetation not being removed will be delineated to prevent damage. A Tree Preservation Plan will be drafted prior to construction, and planting of native species along the edge of woodlands where vegetation is to be removed will occur. The composition of replanting will be confirmed with the MNR and Kawartha Region Conservation Authority, and any impact is expected to be temporary and not result in a permanent disturbance to species. Construction within 120m of significant woodlands and vegetation removal will not occur between May 1 and July 31. Some related activities such as turbine erection may occur during this period. Construction of components within 120m of an identified significant area will not occur between May 1st and July 31st unless a biologist is retained on-site to identify areas to be avoided. Silt fencing will be placed accordingly in order to reduce the likelihood of turtles entering active construction zones. Vegetation removal in non-significant hedgerows will be kept to a minimum. Air Quality & Noise Emissions: Air quality impacts due to exhaust and fugitive dust emissions from construction, as well as noise impacts from, heavy vehicles and other may cause disturbance. However, emissions from vehicles will occur for a relatively short period of time, and all vehicles will be properly maintained to mitigate any effects. Furthermore, a vegetative cover over the agricultural lands not under construction will be maintained, access roads will be constructed using coarse gravel. Dust suppression will be provided along unpaved roads used to access construction site. Adherence to the City of Kawartha Lakes noise by-law will be maintained, and noise emissions from construction activities will be in accordance with the MOE noise requirements for rural areas (MOE publication NPC-232). Land Use & Resources: 1.7 hectares (4.2 acres) of land will be taken out of production for the lifetime of the project. The size of these areas will be relatively small and these parcels of land will be returned to production at the end of the project lifecycle. Also, turbine and access road layout has taken landowners comments and indented use of adjacent lands into consideration to minimize impacts on current practices. Construction staff will rely on nearby resources such as food service, lodging, and retail. The local area typically sees an increase in seasonal residents yearly as a result of recreational areas in the vicinity. An increased demand for temporary resources would not be an undue strain on the local economy. Traffic Patterns & Flows: Increased local traffic may temporarily impact the use of surrounding infrastructure. Wild Turkey (un-assumed road) will require some road work and disruption of some traffic on and around this road may result. Signs will be placed along roads to give advance notification of traffic interruptions due to the delivery of construction equipment and turbine components. Public Safety: Work site related accidents may occur, and could impact members of the public or their property. In order to mitigate any potential effects, construction and installation of the wind project infrastructure will occur on privately owned lands with some minor works occurring along the road right of way, and construction zones will be clearly identified. All construction activities will comply with all provincial Workplace Health and Safety laws, regarding hoarding and barriers. Construction areas will be clearly marked and access to the site will be controlled through signage and restricted to authorized personnel only. Waste Materials Disposal: Waste will be generated from construction materials (concrete, wood, steel, shipping materials, however recycling containers for source separation of materials will be provided on-site. Excess fill and soils will have to be managed, and will be kept on-site where possible for re-use. Management of wood waste from land clearing will be necessary, and opportunities to beneficially re-use wood waste (home heating, mulch, compost facility) will be taken. Heritage & Archaeological Resources: A Stage 2 Archaeological Review found no items of archaeological significance. The construction contractor will be advised to notify owner in the event archaeological resources are discovered, and notification procedures will be provided to the contractor. A Cultural Heritage Assessment found no items of cultural significance Further information on the Water Report can be found in the following report: Sumac Ridge Wind Project Construction Report. Prepared by ORTECH Environmental. March

6 Sumac Ridge Design and Operations Report Summary Project Components: five (5) REpower MM9-2.05MW wind turbine generators step up transformers near the base of each turbine 44kV collector line system switching station turbine access roads Temporary components during construction: staging areas for access roads and underground cable construction crane pads, laydown areas and crane assembly areas wider turning areas for delivery of components The Facility operations plan will be finalized by the turbine manufacturer prior to turbine delivery. What follows is a general plan for operational monitoring and maintenance which will be supplemented by specific operations required by the manufacturer. Daily Operations & Monitoring Activities The project will be monitored remotely 24 hours a day through a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system which will monitor wind speed and direction, voltage, vibration, status of the internal gearbox, generator and baring temperatures. This system will also control when the wind turbines operate and shut down based on adverse internal conditions or weather conditions. Sensors on the turbine Nacelle will measure wind speed, direction and temperature. Regular site visits will be made during which the operator will visually inspect the turbines for any damage or obstructions, they will also make note of any unusual or excessive noise. An inspection log will be kept which will record dates and times of the inspections. Site inspections will be used in conjunction with the prescribed timing of routine maintenance activities to initiate repairs as needed. In the event a turbine or component is found to be operating out of compliance with the REA approval or manufacturer s specifications, the turbine will be shut down and locked out until the repair is performed. Any waste will be disposed of in an appropriate MOE registered facility. Any metal 1

7 items will be taken to an appropriate scrap and salvage facility for recycling. The continued operations of the project will not require any water takings or sewage works. Scheduled Maintenance Scheduled maintenance will include a detailed inspection of the nacelle, blades, rotor, tower and all other components related to the project including the switching station. Where required, fluids will be changed and parts will be replaced. A crane will only be required for major repairs. In addition to annual maintenance, between years 7 and 10 a major overhaul of some of the larger wind turbine components may be required. Unscheduled Maintenance As inspections and scheduled maintenance recommend replacement of components, repair crews will be dispatched to the site. This maintenance can include minor components such as small electronic parts or major components like a gear box. Some large components may require mobilization of a crane to the site. Potential Environmental Effects Monitoring and Mitigation Heritage and Archaeological Resources: A Stage 2 Archaeological Review found no items of archaeological significance. No effect during operation is anticipated. Natural Heritage Resources: While wildlife in the area is already exposed to a degree of sensory disturbance from ongoing agricultural activities, however there is potential risk of avian or bat mortality or injury. Best practices regarding project siting are implemented in order to protect habitat and mitigate any potential effects. Preconstruction natural heritage assessment was conducted, and findings were considered in the project design. Post construction monitoring will determine the need for operational mitigation. Water bodies: In order to mitigate any potential impacts to surface or groundwater, materials such as fuel, oil, lubricants and hydraulic fluids will not be stored at the site, reducing the potential for leaks. A Spill Contingency Plan will be developed and all personnel will be trained in the proper spill clean-up procedures. Spill containment kits will be at the Project site, and any spills would be cleaned up immediately. Operation staff will be trained in proper spill clean-up techniques, and all equipment will be properly maintained. Air and Noise: The Project will comply with the Ministry of Environmental Noise Guidelines, In the event of a noise complaint wpd 2

8 will investigate and/or verify compliance with the applicable noise guidelines. wpd will notify the MOE of complaints in a timely manner. Mitigation measures may include equipment repairs / retrofit, or shut down of a non-conforming turbine. Land Use and Resources: 1.7 hectares (4.2 acres) of land will be taken out of production for the lifetime of the project. The size of these areas will be relatively small and these parcels of land will be returned to production at the end of the project lifecycle. Also, turbine and access road layout has taken landowners comments and indented use of adjacent lands into consideration to minimize impacts on current practices. Provincial and Local Infrastructure: Potential for any interference with local telecommunications services has been evaluated, and no impacts are anticipated. Should unanticipated issues arise, appropriate consultation and mitigation will be undertaken. There may be risk of increased traffic during maintenance periods, however the local community will be notified prior to maintenance requiring heavy machinery. Public Health and Safety: Modern wind turbines must meet stringent engineering standards, including withstanding high wind events, addressing any imbalances of the turbine blades which may occur, and being equipped with lightening protection systems. The Project will comply with Transport Canada marking and lighting standards, and Transport Canada and Nav Canada have been consulted regarding any potential impacts on aircraft safety. Regarding stray voltage, the Project will be in compliance with all local grid Electrical Safety Standards. All setbacks will be maintained as per REA requirements, and the switching station will be contained within a secure fenced area. Further information on the Water Report can be found in the following report: Sumac Ridge Wind Park Design and Operations Report. Prepared by ORTECH Environmental. March

9 Sumac Ridge Decommissioning Report Summary This summary is being prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 as a part of the stakeholder outreach for the Renewable Energy Approval process. The information contained in this summary is meant to be used in conjunction with the official REA reporting. Probable Future Site Use The project has been awarded a 20 year power purchase agreement under the FIT program by the Ontario Power Authority (OPA). After the 20 year FIT Contract expires, the project may apply to the FIT program to have the Project re-powered which includes upgrading or replacing the turbines and other components with a newer technology to allow continued operation of the wind facility. This process would require additional permitting and approvals. Should re-powering not be an available or viable option, the project will be decommissioned and the proponent will cease operation and the project location would return to agricultural use. Decommissioning During Construction (Abandonment of Project) While it is very unlikely that the Project would require decommissioning or be abandoned during the construction phase, due to the large amount of investment required by the FIT Program, the project could be decommissioned at any point in the construction process without incurring additional environmental impacts as described under the report section Procedures for Decommissioning After Ceasing Operations.. Procedures for Decommissioning After Ceasing Operations Should decommissioning become necessary the site will be restored by the proponent to a level similar to the pre development condition. Any decommissioning activities will commence within one year of the FIT Contract expiration date and involve removal of above-ground and below-ground structures to a depth of at least 1.0 metre and restoration of topsoil and vegetation cover at the site. Above-ground structures include turbines, transformers, associated laydown areas, access roads, above ground electrical connection lines, one short-cut road, and the Switching Station. Below-ground structures include turbine foundations, a concrete slab for the switching station and all underground electrical and communications lines. Any upgrades to municipal roads will remain as part of the Municipal roadway system. 1

10 Excess Materials and Waste All waste generated during decommissioning stage will be disposed according to the regulatory requirements at the time of disposal, and recycled or salvaged as appropriate in order to minimize any residual waste. No lubricants will be removed from heavy machinery on site. Notification Notification of decommissioning will be provided to interested Aboriginal communities, stakeholders and agencies prior to commencement of decommissioning works. Additionally an updated decommissioning plan will be provided for review to the MNR, City of Kawartha Lakes, District MOE office and the Kawartha Region Conservation Authority. Notification may be in the form of newspaper notices, personal letters and updates on the Project website. Other Approvals Several permits will be required for the project decommissioning including the demolition permit obtained from the City of Kawartha Lakes, special transportation permit from the Ministry of Transportation, a Record of Site Condition under the Ministry of the Environment s Records of Site Condition Regulation, O. Reg. 153/04 under the Environmental Protection Act (EPA). Other permits that may be required will be confirmed in discussions with the City of Kawartha Lakes and provincial agencies prior to decommissioning of the Project. Further information on the Water Report can be found in the following report: Sumac Ridge Wind Project Decommissioning Report. Prepared by ORTECH Environmental. March

11 Natural Heritage Report Summary This summary is being prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 as a part of the stakeholder outreach for the Renewable Energy Approval process. The information contained in this summary is meant to be used in conjunction with the official REA reporting. In November 2011, Natural Resource Solutions Inc. (NRSI) completed the Sumac Ridge Records Review, Site Investigation Report and the Evaluation of Significance Report. These reports comprise three of the four main components of the Natural Heritage Report. A summary of the Environmental Impact Study Report will be provided separately. The Records Review looked at 120m beyond the project location for candidate significant natural features, including designated natural areas, vegetation communities, wildlife and wildlife habitat. Sources included the Ministry of Natural Resources, Kawartha Conservation, the Natural Heritage Information Centre, the City of Kawartha Lakes Draft Official Plan (2010) including the City of Kawartha Lakes Oak Ridges Moraine Policy Area, the MNR Natural Resources and Values Information System (NRVIS) Mapping, Land Information Ontario (LIO) mapping and data from the Kawartha Heritage Conservancy (KHC) website (2010). The review concluded the following: Criteria 1. Within 120m of a Provincial Park or Conservation Reserve 2. In a Natural Feature Result The Sumac Ridge Wind Project location is not within 120m of a Provincial Park or Conservation Reserve. The project area overlaps with agricultural fields, some of which may be abandoned fields. These fields may have the potential to provide habitat for species of conservation concern in the form of Open Country Bird Breeding Habitat. The project area also overlaps with several treed fencerows and woodlands, which may have the potential to provide significant wildlife habitat for species of conservation concern. As such, the Sumac Ridge Wind Project location does overlap with potential wildlife habitat. These potentially significant habitats should be considered candidate SWH and have been evaluated in more detail during the site investigation and evaluation of significance phases of this project. 3. Within 50m of an ANSI-ES The project location is not within 50m of an Earth Science ANSI. 4. Within 120m of a Natural Feature a) ANSI-ES The project location is not within 50m of an Earth Science ANSI. b) ANSI-LS The project location is not within 120m of a Life Science ANSI. 1

12 c) Coastal Wetland The project location is not within 120m of coastal wetlands. d) Northern Wetland The project location is not within 120m of northern wetlands. e) Southern Wetland The project location is not within 120m of known southern wetlands. f) Valleyland The project location is not within 120m of known valleylands. The fields present throughout the project area have the potential to act as candidate SWH, including habitat for species of conservation concern and open country bird breeding habitat. The treed fencerows and woodlands within the project area also g) Wildlife Habitat have the potential to act as candidate SWH for species of conservation concern. No seasonal concentration areas, rare vegetation types, specialized wildlife habitats, or animal movement corridors identified by the MNR have been identified within 120m of the project location. Several wooded features are present within the project area and h) Woodland have the potential to act as candidate SWH for species of conservation concern. i) Sand barren The project location is not within 120m of known sand barrens. j) Savannah The project location is not within 120m of known savannahs. The project location is not within 120m of known tallgrass k) Tallgrass prairie prairies. Following the records review a Site Investigation was carried out using the information gathered as part of the Records Review. This investigation occurred in June, July and November of 2010 as well as in April of This investigation identified the following features within the project area: Natural Feature Type Natural Feature ID Distance to Nearest Turbine Distance to Other Infrastructure EOS Required Woodlands Woodland WOD m 8.8m Yes Woodland WOD m 64m Yes Woodland WOD-003 >120m 100m Yes Woodland WOD-004 >120m 7m Yes Woodland WOD m 62m Yes Woodland WOD m Overlaps Yes Woodland WOD m Overlaps Yes Woodland WOD-008 >120m 6m Yes Woodland WOD-009 >120m 104m Yes Wetlands Wetland WET m Overlaps Yes Wildlife Habitat Bat Maternity Colony BMA m 8.8m Yes Bat Maternity Colony BMA m Overlaps Yes 2

13 Turtle Wintering Area TWA-001 >120m 41m Turtle Nesting Habitat TNH-001 >120m 11m Open Country Bird Breeding OCB-001 >120m Overlaps Yes Open Country Bird Breeding OCB-002 Overlaps Overlaps Yes Species of Conservation Concern Common Snapping Turtle >120m 11m Yes Eastern Meadowlark Overlaps Overlaps Yes A comprehensive analysis of natural features within 120m of the Sumac Ridge Wind Project location was conducted by NRSI biologists to determine their significance. They found the following: Natural Feature Type Woodlands Natural Feature ID Distance to Nearest Turbine Distance to Other Infrastructure Significant Yes Yes EIS Required Woodland WOD m 8.8m Yes Yes Woodland WOD m 64m No No Woodland WOD-003 >120m 100m No No Woodland WOD-004 >120m 7m No No Woodland WOD m 62m No No Woodland WOD m Overlaps Yes Yes Woodland WOD m Overlaps Yes Yes Woodland WOD-008 >120m 6m Yes Yes Woodland WOD-009 >120m 104m Yes Yes Wetlands Wetland WET m Overlaps No No Wildlife Habitat Bat Maternity Colony BMA m 8.8m No No Bat Maternity Colony BMA m Overlaps No No Turtle Wintering Area TWA-001 >120m 41m Turtle Nesting Habitat TNH-001 >120m 11m Open Country Bird Breeding OCB-001 >120m Overlaps Open Country Bird Breeding OCB-002 Overlaps Overlaps Species of Conservation Concern Eastern Meadowlark Overlaps Overlaps Yes Yes Common Snapping Turtle >120m 11m Yes Yes Based on the evaluation of significance 11 features noted above will require an environmental impact statement. Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 3

14 Further information on the Natural Heritage can be found in the following reports: Sumac Ridge Wind Project: Natural Heritage Review. Prepared by Natural Resource Solutions Inc. March

15 Water Report and Environmental Impact Study Summary This summary is being prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 as a part of the stakeholder outreach for the Renewable Energy Approval process. The information contained in this summary is meant to be used in conjunction with the official REA reporting. In October 2011 Natural Resource Solutions Inc. (NRSI) completed a Water Report of the Project Area. This summary report includes a Records Review, Site Investigation, Impact analysis and an Environmental Impact Study. The Records Review portion of this project looked at 120m beyond the project location for presence and characteristics of waterbodies. This review assessed information from the Kawartha Region Conservation authority, Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Conservation Ontario, Natural Heritage Information Centre data, Biodiversity Explorer mapping and a site visit. The review concluded the following: Criteria Result Is the project area in a water body? Yes, the project area is within 120m of several water bodies. Is the project within 120m of the average annual high water mark of No, the project area is not within 120m of any lakes. a lake, other than a lake trout lake that is at or above development capacity? Is the project within 300m of the average annual high water mark of No, the project area is not within 300m of any lake trout a lake trout lake that is at or above development capacity? lakes. Is the project within 120m of the average annual high water mark of Yes, the project area is within 120m of intermittent a permanent or intermittent stream? streams. Is the project within 120m of a seepage area? No, the project area is not within 120m of a seepage area. Following the records review a Site Investigation was carried out. This investigation occurred in August 2010 and April This investigation identified project components within 120m of three watercourses. It also identified that the project is located in proximity to Fish Habitat, an on-line artificial Pond, artesian livestock well, seepage areas and infiltration area: Aquatic Feature Aquatic Feature ID Distance to Nearest Turbine Distance to Other Infrastructure Seasonal Fish Habitat PRT1 > 120m 9.5m to Switching Station Area and Above Ground Electrical Line Complex Contributing Fish Habitat PRT3 > 120m 50m to Access road to Turbine 1 Simple and Complex Contributing Fish Habitat PRT4 1 > 120m 36m to Access road to Turbines 1 and 3

16 On-line artificial pond PRT2 n/a (artificial ponds not recognized by REA) n/a Artesian livestock well S1 > 120m 58m to Above Ground Electrical Line Artesian livestock well S2 > 120m 9.5m to Access Road to Turbine 1 Seep S3 > 120m 0 m In the path of the Above Ground Electrical Line along Gray Road Infiltration Area No Specific Location Turbine 4 and 5 within the area Additional project components within the area An evaluation of impacts was carried out based on the data collected as part of the records review and the site investigation. The following recommendations were made: Potential Impact Sedimentation and soil compaction Recommended Mitigation Measure(s) Construction Phase 1. Work in and around watercourses is to be conducted when the streams have dried up during the summer. 2. Sub-contractor shall develop an effective erosion and sediment control plan (ESC) to be reviewed and approved by the Engineer and Proponent. 3. Additional site grading shall be conducted to ensure surface runoff is directed away from the area of concern and the natural drainage of the area of concern is maintained. 4. Culverts are to be installed in dry conditions only using the applicable DFO Operational Statement for culvert installations. The site is to be seeded and exposed soils covered with straw matting immediately upon completion of works. 5. Standard sediment and erosion controls are to be implemented and maintained for the duration of the disturbance (ie. silt fences, hay bales, screening dams etc ) until the area has been stabilized or vegetation is re-established. 6. Place stockpiles of topsoil and subsoil at least 10m away from water bodies and grade stockpiles to a stable angle as soon as possible after disturbance to eliminate potential slumping. 7. Avoid use of heavy machinery in wet conditions and over permanently wet soils (i.e. wetlands). 8. Implementation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is recommended as guidance for the contractor to minimize environmental impacts, including impacts on vegetation. 9. The size of disturbed areas with fallow soils is to be minimized. 10. Locations with soils remaining fallow for longer than 30 days should receive temporary stabilization (i.e. covered with mulch or hay). This requirement is dependent on the proximity and sensitivity of the ecological receptor (i.e. the middle of a fallow field does not require this mitigation, while the duration of exposed soil along a watercourse should be avoided entirely if possible). 11. Use filter bags and/or settling ponds or equivalent, at a distance of 30 m from a watercourse, or a nearer distance if sufficient residence-time is achieved to facilitate sediment deposition. This mitigation 2

17 will require ground-truthing to ensure due diligence, and to maximize efficiency. 12. Immediately re-seed and cover disturbed areas upon completion of work. Habitat Loss Contamination from Spills 13. None. No habitat loss is planned. 14. Maintenance areas and any hazardous materials (fuel storage) and/or waste storage should be located in a central project area, off-site and in a secure (fenced/locked) and impermeable area capable of containing at least 110% of the storage capacity of the area. 15. Special restrictions are to be developed for works within the high aquifer vulnerability zone (Figure 1; and section 8.1.4). Generally, no re-fueling or fuel storage is to take place within this restricted zone. 16. Refueling activities should occur only in designated (central) areas and should be located at 30m away from any waterbody. 17. All hydraulic systems on equipment will be inspected prior to mobilization to all sites, daily prior to use, and prior to remobilization to the next site. 18. Equipment shall not be placed within the water body or dry stream channel and is to be conducted from land from a sufficient distance to prevent bank failure. 19. Contractor to have Emergency Response Plan (ERP) in place in accordance with EMP, which includes the special restrictions within the vulnerable zone (Item #15). 20. All construction staff shall be properly trained on Spill Response and the use of Spill Kits. 21. Adhere to project operational control procedure for storage and handling of hazardous materials. All construction staff to be trained on proper handling of hazardous materials. Sedimentation Habitat Loss Contamination from Spills Sedimentation Habitat Loss Contamination from Spills 22. All project and construction vehicles shall maintain a mobile spill kit in the vehicle at all times. None None See Construction Phase See Construction Phase See Construction Phase See Construction Phase The water report found that any potential impacts arising from the construction and installation of the turbine can be mitigated. In addition a new culvert will be added to the access road for turbines 1 and 3 in order to maintain drainage patterns. Further information on the Water Report can be found in the following report: Water Report and Environmental Impact Study: Sumac Ridge Wind Farm. Prepared by Natural Resource Solutions Inc. March

18 Archaeological Assessment Stage 1 & 2 Summary This summary is being prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 as a part of the stakeholder outreach for the Renewable Energy Approval process. The information contained in this summary is meant to be used in conjunction with the official REA reporting. Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment on the Project Area was completed by Timmins Martelle Heritage Consultants in September This study entailed a field reconnaissance process, a review of landscape and environmental conditions, early historic maps and historical summaries and the Provincial registered archaeological sites database. Conclusions: This report concluded the site had archaeological potential due to the proximity to water courses and known archaeological sites in the vicinity, as well as the presence of elevated topography and well drained sandy soils. A Stage 2 assessment was recommended. Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment field work was conducted in late November and early December of 2010, as well as during June of Areas where components would be located were marked by technical staff and surveyed accordingly. This work assessed all five proposed wind turbine locations crane pads, laydown areas, access roads, connector lines, feeder line, phone line, switching station and contractor parking area as well as the widening of Wild Turkey Road. Cultivated land was ploughed and a pedestrian survey of those areas were completed. Areas that could not be ploughed were test pitted. Conclusions and Recommendations: This report concludes that these areas have been adequately assessed, and as no cultural material was found, are deemed to have no outstanding archaeological concerns: The turbine footprints, laydown areas, access roads and connector lines for all five turbines were subject to either pedestrian survey under conditions of good surface visibility or by test pit survey. The length of the main feeder line proposed along the southern edge of the Grey Road Right of Way (ROW) was subject to test pit survey or was deemed to be of low archeological potential due to wet areas or areas of complete disturbance. 1

19 The area to be impacted by the widening of Wild Turkey Road, located between Ballyduff Road and the proposed phone line corridor, was subject to a test pit survey at 5 metre intervals. The proposed impact areas for the phone line running west from Wild Turkey Road and the contractor parking area between Ballyduff Road and Wild Turkey Road were both subjected to a test pit survey. The newly proposed switching station located in southwest of the intersection of Highway 35 and Grey Road was subject to a pedestrian survey under conditions of good surface visibility. If construction plans change to incorporate new areas that were not subject to a Stage 2 field survey, these must be assessed prior to the initiation of construction. The Ministry of Tourism and Culture must review the new fieldwork and agree that methods and recommendations are in keeping with applicable standards and guidelines (MCTR 1993). A Stage 2 addendum was prepared as the location for the access road leading to the switching station location was changed following consultation with the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO). This addendum only covers the new pathway of the access road and found no items of significance. The MTC concurred with these findings and no further work is required at this time. Regulatory review: These reports were submitted to the Ministry of Tourism and Culture (MTC) for review to ensure compliance with the standards and guidelines issued by the Minister, and that the fieldwork and report recommendations ensure the conservation, protection and preservation of the cultural heritage of Ontario. By regulation, when all matters have been addressed to the satisfaction of the MTC, a letter is issued by the Ministry, and the reports are accepted into the Provincial Registrar. Stage 1, Stage 2 and the addendum for the Sumac Ridge Project have been accepted into the Provincial Registrar. Further information on the Stage 1 and 2 Archaeology studies can be found in the following reports: Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment: Sumac Ridge Wind Farm. Prepared by Timmins Martelle Heritage Consultants Inc. October Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment: Sumac Ridge Wind Farm. Prepared by Timmins Martelle Heritage Consultants Inc. July Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment ADDENDUM: Sumac Ridge Wind Farm. Prepared by Timmins Martelle Heritage Consultants Inc. November

20 Sumac Ridge Cultural Heritage Assessment Summary This summary is being prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 as a part of the stakeholder outreach for the Renewable Energy Approval process. The information contained in this summary is meant to be used in conjunction with the official REA reporting. The Sumac Ridge Wind Project is subject to Ontario Regulation 359/09 under the Environmental Protection Act (the Regulation), and requires a Renewable Energy Approval (REA), as a Class 4 wind facility. The project was awarded a Feed-in Tariff (FIT) contract in May 2010 and has a Contract date for Commercial Operating Date (COD) of July 24, Construction activities are planned to begin in -Summer All required permits and authorizations will be obtained prior to commencing construction. The Regulation ensures that projects consider and avoid or mitigate impacts to the environment, including the cultural environment. For the purpose of this summary the cultural environment includes: archaeological resources, built heritage resources and cultural heritage landscapes. The Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture provides an informational bulletin entitled Protected Properties, Archaeological and Heritage Resources, 2011 to assist proponents in addressing sections 19 through 23 of the Regulation. The Regulation allows for a self-assessment, where appropriate, to determine if there are archaeological or heritage resources at the project location, and confirm if there is any possibility of impact on those resources. Written summaries supporting a self-assessment must be accompanied by appropriate documentation. Based upon the cultural and built heritage information collected to date on the lands occupied and adjacent to the Sumac Ridge Wind Project (the Project) this written summary of the findings concludes that there will be no impacts on cultural and built heritage resources. The Cultural Heritage Self- Assessment is comprised of the following attachments: Attachment 1 Project Information and Location Attachment 2 Identifying Protected Properties at the Project Location Attachment 3 Consideration of Heritage Resources at the Project Location Attachment 4 Identifying Protected Properties Abutting a Project Location Attachment 5 Ministry of Culture Review and Acceptance of Stage I and II Archaeological Assessment 1

21 Archaeological and other cultural resources associated with the project are addressed within the Stage I and Stage II archaeological assessment reports prepared by Timmins, Martel Heritage Consultants. Both Stage I and Stage II reports have been reviewed and accepted by the Ministry of Culture (MTC). Further information on the Water Report can be found in the following report: Sumac Ridge Wind Project Cultural Heritage Report Summary. Prepared by ORTECH Environmental. October

22 Sumac Ridge Noise Assessment Summary This summary is being prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 as a part of the stakeholder outreach for the Renewable Energy Approval process. The information contained in this summary is meant to be used in conjunction with the official REA reporting. Project Information and Location wpd Canada Corporation (wpd Canada) is proposing the development of a new onshore wind facility located in the City of Kawartha Lakes, within the former Township of Manvers, Ontario. The proposed Sumac Ridge Wind Project (Project) is located on privately owned lands. The Project was awarded a Feed-in Tariff (FIT) contract, for a maximum 11.5 MW facility, in April of The terms of the FIT contract require the proponent to commission the Project by July 14, The area is rural in nature, both acoustically and in general, primarily used for agricultural related activities with scattered housing and major roadways nearby. Estimated noise levels from Project turbines meet the 2008 Ministry of Environment (MOE) Noise Guidelines for Wind Farms at all non-participating receptors as defined under O. Reg. 359/09. Receptor Summary HGC, a third party consulting engineering firm specializing in noise control conducted the noise assessment. A table of UTM coordinates listing 116 receptors including vacant lots located near the proposed generators was submitted by wpd Canada to HGC. Typically for this area, non-participating receptors are residential dwellings of individuals and families who are not participating in the Project. Participating receptors are dwellings occupied by landowners with infrastructure on their properties and/or have options or leases related to the Project. A map of the Project area receptors and noise projection is attached. Methods The MOE considerers a rural area such as the Sumac Ridge site to have a maximum allowable sound level of 40dBA for quiet night time periods, and 45 dba for quiet daytime periods. To determine if the minimum criteria should apply, a site visit was conducted during the afternoon on July 22, Short duration average sound levels were recorded to be 36 dba, with some levels as low as 26 dba. Based on the site visit the area is acoustically rural, and minimum noise limits should apply. Turbine noise must remain below 40dBA at non-participating residential receptors in the area. Although wind turbines may be audible, the sound power level will not exceed 40dBA at any residence. 1

23 The assessment is based on the minimum criteria of 40dBA and the maximum wind turbine sound power level. Impact Assessment For all non-participating receptors sound levels are at or below the 40.0 dba minimum criterion. There are no transformers or substations planned for this Project, so the only sound will be generated from the turbines themselves. A small transformer will be installed at each of the wind turbine generator locations however these are acoustically insignificant in comparison to the wind turbine generator sound power levels. These small transformers will be the only ones associated with this project; no larger step-up transformers will be installed Conclusions The noise impact assessment for the proposed Sumac Ridge Project determined that the estimated sound level at non-participating receptors and vacant lot receptors comply with the MOE sound level limits. Sound levels will be below 40dBA at all non-participating receptors. Detailed data on sample calculations can be found in the Noise Assessment Report. 2

24 Sumac Ridge Turbine Specification Report Summary This summary is being prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 359/09 as a part of the stakeholder outreach for the Renewable Energy Approval process. The information contained in this summary is meant to be used in conjunction with the official REA reporting. The purpose of this summary is to provide Aboriginal communities, municipalities, and regulatory agencies with an overview of the turbine technology to be used for the Sumac Ridge Wind Project Project. Turbine Specifications The Project includes 5 REpower MM92 wind turbines with a nameplate capacity of 2.05 each. The Project s nameplate capacity is 10.25MW. The table below provides the turbine s general specifications. Wind Turbine Type and Model: REpower MM92 Name plate capacity: 2.05 MW Wind farm total capacity: 10.25MW Hub Height: 100 Metres Blade length: 45.2 Metres Blade swept area 6720 M 2 Rotational speed: 73.8 to 15.0 rpm (+ 12.5%) Maximum tip speed: 72.6 m/s Maximum acoustic emissions (95% rated): db Turbine Components: Concrete tower foundation Five steel tower sections Nacelle (comprised of gearbox. Electrical generator and housing) Three rotor blades Hub (where blades connect) Power converter Electrical wiring and grounding Turbine tower lighting A complete description of the general specification for the REpower MM92 wind turbine can be found in Appendix A of the Turbine Specification Report. 1