(A) Generally. A principal solar energy system as defined is allowed via special exception where listed on Table 1 subject to the requirements of this chapter.
(B) Acreage. A principal solar energy system shall occupy less than one acre.
(C) Height and setback. For purposes of determining compliance with lot coverage standards of the underlying zone, the total surface area of all ground-mounted and freestanding solar collectors including solar photovoltaic cells, panels, arrays, and solar hot air or water collector devices shall be considered impervious. Panels mounted on the roof of any building shall be subject to the maximum height regulations specified within each the underlying zone.
(D) On-site utility and transmission lines. All on-site utility and transmission lines shall, to the extent feasible, be placed underground.
(E) Large solar energy production facilities. All large solar energy production facilities shall be designed and located in order to prevent reflective glare toward any inhabited buildings on adjacent properties as well as adjacent street rights-of-way.
(F) Warning sign. A clearly visible warning sign concerning voltage must be placed at the base of all pad-mounted transformers and substations.
(G) Attached to a building. Whenever practical, all principal solar energy systems should be attached to a building; or if ground mounted and/or freestanding, the applicant shall demonstrate by credible evidence that such facilities cannot feasibly be attached to a building due to structural limitations of the building.
(H) Mechanical equipment. All mechanical equipment of principal solar energy systems including any structure for batteries or storage cells, shall be completely enclosed by a minimum eight-foot high fence with a self-locking gate, and provided with screening in accordance with the landscaping provisions of the borough subdivision and land development ordinance.
(I) Ceasing operation. If the applicant ceases operation of the energy project or begins, but does not complete, construction of the project, the applicant shall restore the site according to a plan approved by the borough. A principal solar energy system owner is required to notify the borough immediately upon cessation or abandonment of the operation. The owner shall be responsible for the removal of the facility within six months from the date the applicant ceases use of the facility or the facility becomes obsolete. The owner shall then have 12 months in which to dismantle and remove the principal solar energy system from the property. At the time of issuance of the permit for the construction of the system, the owner shall provide financial security in form and amount acceptable to the borough to secure the expense of dismantling and removing said structures.
(Ord. passed 7-13-2015) Penalty, see § 154.999