Acquiring Right of Way for a Solar Project
Ideally, a solar project would involve one landowner and one large land parcel that neighbors an existing substation. Things are rarely so easy. After all, an area of interest (AOI) could span thousands of acres that are owned by dozens of entities. Not every landowner within the AOI will be interested in leasing their ground. Lakes, streams, rock formations, and man-made structures pose challenges, too.
As a result, many solar projects involve multiple landowners and multiple parcels, which might not be contiguous. Connecting a variety of locations becomes the priority, which likely involves acquiring right of way from neighboring landowners—some of whom may not be enthusiastic about the project.
Connecting the Project Together by Acquiring Right of Way
Obtaining land lease agreements for a solar project is much like putting together a giant jigsaw puzzle. Each piece of the puzzle falls into place, and, before you know it, you’re able to see the bigger picture. If you’ve ever put together a puzzle, however, you know how frustrating a missing piece can be (especially when you’re almost done). For a solar project, this “missing piece” is usually a landowner who simply isn’t interested. Try as hard as you like, but some pieces just never fall into place.
What should a project developer do in this situation? Shifting the area of interest could be one option, but that involves additional time and cost to engage more landowners. Another option focuses on acquiring a right of way across the “missing piece” in the puzzle. With this approach, the landowner allows an easement on a relatively narrow strip of his or her land. Depending on the project, this easement would connect neighboring parcels by housing critical infrastructure, such as:
● Above ground transmission lines
● Underground power lines
By participating in a right of way agreement, the landowner plays a key role in ensuring the project’s viability. Once constructed, such easements enable the efficient collection and distribution of solar energy.
Landowners Benefit from Right of Way Agreements, Too
Signing a right of way agreement benefits the landowner, too.
Solar developers typically pay for easements by the linear foot, which could translate into a large sum of money based on the amount of land required. In addition, payments for crop disturbances are also common. And, perhaps best of all, the landowner can continue using the land as desired.
Right of Way Support for Solar Energy Projects
Contact us to discuss your solar project and learn more about New Era Land Services’ right of way services.