For the purpose of this chapter, certain terms and words are hereby defined; words used in the present tense shall include the future; words used in the singular number shall include the plural number; and the plural the singular; and the word “shall” is mandatory and not discretionary.
ABANDONMENT. To give up, discontinue, withdraw from. Any solar energy facility that ceases to produce energy on a continuous basis for 12 months will be considered abandoned.
BUILDING. Any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls, and designated or intended for the shelter, support, enclosure or protection of persons, animals, or chattels.
DECOMMISSIONING PLAN. A document that details the planned shut down or removal of a solar energy facility from operation or usage.
FENCE. A continuous barrier extending from the surface of the ground to a uniform height of not less than six feet from the ground at any given point, constructed of steel, or other material of similar nature and strength.
IMPROVED AREA. The area containing solar panels, electrical inverters, storage buildings, fences, and access roads.
LAYDOWN YARD. A temporary worksite that is necessary for the construction, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning of a SEF. A LAYDOWN YARD is used to house employee office sites and facilities, store materials, components, and equipment, and to provide parking and locations for temporary facilities such as construction trailers. Hours of operation for a LAYDOWN YARD shall be similar to other kinds of construction sites, typically from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during weekdays, with hours limited on the weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
MAXIMUM TILT. The maximum angle or the most vertical position of a solar array as compared to the horizon line.
MINIMUM TILT. The minimum or most horizontal angle of a solar array as compared to the horizon line.
NON-PARTICIPATING LOT(S). One or more lots for which there is not a signed lease or easement for development of a principal-use SEF associated with the applicant/project.
OPAQUE FENCE. A continuous opaque, un-perforated barrier extending from the surface of the ground to a uniform height of not less than six feet from the ground at any given point, constructed of steel, or any substance of a similar nature and strength which will hide the solar energy facility.
PARTICIPATING LOT(S). One or more lots under a signed lease or easement for development of a principal-use SEF associated with the applicant project.
PUBLIC ROAD. Any road or highway which is now or hereafter designated and maintained by the Saginaw County Road Commission as part of the County Road System. Setbacks for improved areas shall be measured from the road right of way.
REPOWERING. Reconfiguring, renovating, or replacing and SEF to maintain or increase the power rating of the SEF within the existing project footprint.
SOLAR ARRAY. A photovoltaic panel, solar thermal collector, or collection of panels in a solar energy system that collects solar radiation.
SOLAR ENERGY FACILITY (SEF). An energy facility includes an area of land principally used to convert solar energy to electricity, which includes, but is not limited to, all the components and subsystems required to convert solar energy into electric or thermal energy suitable for use. The area of the system includes all the land inside the perimeter of the system, which extends to any fencing. This term applies to solar photovoltaic (PV) systems used for the purpose of generating and selling energy to a public utility off site and does not apply to private commercial or residential uses where the energy is used for supplying supplemental electricity for on-site uses.
SOLAR GLARE. The effect produced by light reflecting from a solar panel with an intensity sufficient to cause annoyance, discomfort, or loss in visual performance and visibility.
(Ord. 17-07, passed 11-20-2017; Ord. 23-01, passed 1-17-2023)