The Partnership Process
We offer a long-term partnership approach throughout the whole life of a project. Here is a step-by-step guide to how a typical Partnerships for Renewables project takes shape.
Step 1: Identify possible sites
As soon as we start working with a public sector body we ask them to identify possible sites for development. The number of potential sites nominated can range from one site into the thousands. While the vast majority of sites are found to be inappropriate, having this number of options enables us to be selective with the sites we eventually pursue.
Step 2: Screen sites (carried out under confidentiality agreement)
At the beginning of the development process we screen sites using office-based assessments. Here we look into issues such as the proximity of housing and environmentally-designated areas. Many sites will be found to be inappropriate for development at this stage and eliminated from the process.
Step 3: Feasibility studies (carried out under exclusivity agreement)
We conduct feasibility studies on all sites that pass the initial screening process. These feasibility studies include initial assessments on radar, archaeology, radio communications and site access.
Step 4: Project development (carried out under lease option agreement)
If a site makes it through the screening and feasibility processes successfully it will enter the project development phase. It is at this stage that we start detailed environmental analysis of the area, including studies on wildlife and ecology. If the detailed work uncovers any issues then we will still remove a site at this stage. If the results of the detailed work remain positive then we will submit a planning application.
Consultation
The local community is central to our development process and we are committed to an open and honest consultation process. By using a variety of methods including public exhibitions, mail drops, local media and our website we keep an open dialogue with the local community throughout the development process.