Conestoga, PA

Solar Energy Feasibility Study

ARM performed a preliminary feasibility study to assess the viability of installing a flexible membrane solar system on the surface of the closed portions of the Frey Farm Landfill.  The concept for the specific proposed ground-mounted thin-film photovoltaic installation (PV) was developed by ARM and is considered proprietary.

The solar feasibility study involved identifying the amount of south-facing capped landfill surface that could be used for a solar installation.  Based on the area available for a solar installation, ARM determined that an approximately one (1) MegaWatt (MW) rated capacity system could be installed.  A preliminary cost estimate for the installation of the proposed solar array was prepared by ARM.

Using solar modeling software licensed to ARM, the amount of electricity the proposed system could generate based on the orientation of the solar sub-arrays distributed across approximately 7.5 acres of the south-facing landfill surface was predicted.  Based on the energy production and installed cost estimates, ARM prepared a preliminary economic and financial analysis for the proposed solar installation.  The Lancaster County Solid Waste Authority is currently seeking funding to develop the project.