Tyn y Waun Solar Farm
Infrastructure
Visual Assessments and Renewable Energy.
Project Description
This project involves the development of a solar farm aimed at generating renewable energy. The area is distinguished by its rich history of sustainable practices, having previously served as agricultural land.
Our team was commissioned to create Type 3 AVR3 Verified Views in accordance with the NatureScot Visual Representation of Wind Farms Guidance. These Verified Views played a crucial role in engaging local stakeholders throughout the planning process.
Details of Our Involvement
We were selected for this project due to our specialised expertise in visual representation and environmental assessments. Our strong reputation for delivering precise AVR insights positioned us as the preferred partner for this initiative.
Our main tasks included:
- Leveraging freely available DTM and aerial photography to set up viewpoint cameras.
- Creating detailed 3D models of the proposed solar panel installations and their associated infrastructure.
We collaborated closely with the RPS Group to conduct a thorough visual assessment supported with our Verified Views.
Highlights of the Project
Utilising a variety of resources, including aerial photographs, maps, 3D models, and digital surface models, we ensured a highly accurate representation of the project’s visual impact. The methodology involved:
- Creating panoramic images of the site
- Cropping to develop Verified Views that reflect the human eye’s perspective.
Our review process included:
- Analysing design drawings
- Understanding panel dimensions and layout
- Accounting for fencing, inverters, infrastructure, as well as the reflective nature of the solar panels, which changes throughout the day.
Location
- Heol-y-Cyw
Duration
- CENIN Bridgend Energy Hub
Client
- Cellnex UK
Collaborators
RPS Group
Tyn-y-Waun Solar Farm View Proposed
Challenges
One significant challenge was the reliance on photography provided by third parties. This necessitated a thorough evaluation of the quality and suitability of these images:
- Ensuring proper camera use
- Confirming adequacy of detail in the photographs for verification purposes
- Assessing visibility of solar panels at varying distances.
Conclusion
Planning permission was granted in October 2024. Once operational, the solar farm is expected to produce enough clean electricity to power approximately 12,500 homes each year, making a significant contribution to carbon reduction and enhancing energy security.
This case study provides valuable insights into our experience in interpreting engineering drawings, overcoming visual assessment challenges and underpins the importance of collaboration in successful infrastructure projects.
