This course provides an overview of the technical and regulatory facets of constructing solar farms on closed landfills.
Estimates for the total number of closed landfills in the United States run as high as 100,000. These landfills are attractive locations for siting solar power installations because 1) landfills are typically in areas where community concerns over aesthetic impacts are less likely, 2) the land often cannot be used for other purposes such as commercial or residential development, and 3) using landfills for solar power installations removes pressure to convert greenfield sites to power production. This course provides an overview of the technical and regulatory facets of constructing solar farms on closed landfills. The different types of solar technologies are discussed, and their suitability for installation on a landfill cap is indicated. General guidance on some of the most common engineering obstacles of landfill reuse is provided. Finally regulatory and liability issues arising from building on a brownfield or Superfund site that has been cleaned up or is undergoing cleanup are discussed.
Topics: Introduction to ground mounted systems Different solar technologies Solar system weight considerations Wind loading and snow loading Settlement Cover material integrity Side slope stability Renewable energy production on Superfund or brownfield sites Summary of technical complications, challenges, and potential remedies Required permitting Zoning and land use Existing contamination and environmental site investigations CERCLA liability.Â
Intended Audience: electrical, mechanical, civil, energy, chemical, environmental, construction,and industrial engineers. However, this course could appeal to engineers of other disciplines as well.
Publication Source: US Environmental Protection Agency
Civil Engneering faculty member for 27 years
Dr. Rossow is a graduate of the University of Michigan with B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Illinois. He taught civil engineering for over 35 years, including six years at Washington University in St. Louis and 29 years at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he was the Chair of the Civil Engineering Department for ten years. His areas of expertise are in civil engineering and mechanics. He has consulted for various organizations, including government agencies and an international offshore drilling company. He has published numerous technical journal articles and technical reports for a variety of governmental agencies and private sector organizations. Mark P. Rossow, PE, PhD Licensed Professional Engineer in State of Illinois License No. 062.040560 Dr. Rossow is a graduate of the University of Michigan with B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees. He taught civil engineering for over 35 years, including six years at Washington University in St. Louis and 29 years at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he was the Chair of the Civil Engineering Department for ten years. His areas of expertise are in civil engineering and mechanics. He has consulted for various organizations, including government agencies and an international offshore drilling company. He has published many journal articles and technical reports.
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