FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is Vesper Energy? What other solar projects has Vesper Energy developed?

Vesper Energy provides innovative solutions to today’s complex energy challenges. Headquartered in the greater Dallas area, Vesper Energy is comprised of professionals who have collectively delivered more than 10 GW of renewable energy projects globally. Today, we own and operate 100 MW of solar projects, and our pipeline includes over 55 renewable energy and energy storage projects with a generating capacity of 17 GW; enough to power more than 2 million homes. Working with their customers, communities, and business partners, Vesper Energy develops, owns, and operates renewable energy projects across the United States with the goal to build a better energy infrastructure. www.vesperenergy.com/about

Why is Vesper Energy developing Axton Solar in Henry and Pittsylvania Counties?

We pursue projects where we have earned the trust of landowners and, here in Henry and Pittsylvania counties, our partners remain committed to this project. The landowners believe they have the right to use their land for solar energy production. They believe it is permissible under Virginia state law and is the best choice for their property and their family.

What benefits will Axton Solar provide for the local area?

The Axton Solar project will create a new, long-term source of funding for the community, including significant benefits for area schools. The project will create jobs in Henry and Pittsylvania counties during construction and operations and may hire a variety of vendors and local services. Axton Solar will also preserve farmland for future generations making this a project a great option for the community.

Does the community support the Axton Solar project?

Yes! Polling data shows that 75% of voters surveyed in Henry and Pittsylvania counties believe that more local economic and job opportunities are needed, 55% support the transition to clean energy sources like solar, and 2 out of 3 voters support siting solar farms in the area. In addition more than 2 out of 3 specifically support the Axton Solar project!

How will the project or the panels be sited? Where will the project’s power go?

The layout of Axton Solar’s panels will be designed to maximize clean energy production. Information about the project’s proposed footprint may be viewed here. The project will interconnect to the local electric grid via the Sheffield substation in Henry County.

How many jobs are created for a project like Axton?

Axton Solar is expected to create 200+ construction jobs, with a significant portion of the workforce able to be hired locally. Once operational, the facility will support 1-5 long-term positions.

How do solar projects impact nearby property values?

Solar energy makes for a great neighbor. It is quiet, can be hidden, and does not produce a smell. But don’t take our word for it, see what experts in the industry are saying about solar and property values: Source - SEIA.

What will the project look like? Will there be visual screening for the benefit of the residents and property owners adjoining the project?

Axton Solar will be designed to retain the natural character of the community. We may work with a landscape designer to develop and implement a plan for evergreen-type vegetative screening for any project areas viewable from residential structures. Landscape screening is proven to minimize or eliminate visual impact of solar equipment.

What happens when the project is decommissioned?

Vesper Energy will adhere to all state and local rules around decommissioning ensuring the landowners and other taxpayers are not impacted. Our agreements with landowners and local jurisdictions spell out these obligations, including provisions to provide a financial security that ensures the project will have the resources needed to remove all equipment if a facility is decommissioned. Once the equipment is removed the land will be ready to farm as it will be in essentially the same condition it is today.

How are solar panels disposed of?

The vast majority of solar panels installed in the U.S. are still within their operational lifespans (typically 20-30 years). As such, cost-effective opportunities to recycle solar panels are limited. However, this is an issue the solar industry is working proactively to address, and as more solar panels reach end of life in the coming years, opportunities to recover and recycle the materials in solar panels will expand. Details on panel recycling can be found in the United States Environmental Protection Agency website, at https://www.epa.gov/hw/solar-panel-recycling.

Will local first responders and fire fighters need additional training?

It is unlikely that a serious event will happen at the site. However, a comprehensive emergency management plan will be created prior to construction. This will ensure safety personnel in the community are trained and able to respond appropriately.

Will Axton Solar use golf course land?

No. The Axton Solar project is sited entirely on privately owned property leased under long-term agreements from local landowners. The landowners retain ownership of their property throughout the term of the lease.

What happens if the project begins construction and financing falls through or the company goes bankrupt?

A bond will be obtained prior to the start of construction. It will also be structured in such a manner that Pittsylvania County Department of Community Development and Henry County Department of Planning will be able access those funds to pay for the decommissioning and reclamation of the site, in the event Axton Solar, LLC becomes insolvent, or that the duration of a temporary closure continues so long, that the closure is considered permanent.

Do you want to learn even more about Solar Energy? Check out our Sources page for more resources.

Address:
125 E John Carpenter Fwy, Suite 525
Irving, TX 75062

Contact:
Amir Shafi
Manager of Project Development
Phone: (276) 209-2922
Email: info@axtonsolarva.com

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