Economic and Financial Analysis

ARM is able to prepare a preliminary financial analysis to assess the potential viability of a proposed wind energy project based on a variety of potential project development scenarios.  For net metered projects, ARM will examine the economic viability of a wind plant sized to offset the site’s electrical loads.  ARM will then develop a unique cash flow model for a variety of financial scenarios for the site that will be used to compute NPV, IRR, return-on-equity, and payback period.

Meteorological Tower Installation/ Wind Speed Data Collection

The estimated long-term average wind speeds of the site will be determined from meteorological tower data.  The information gathered is used to understand the wind regime and characteristics at the site, determine the potential project size, number of wind turbines, and estimated annual energy production potential.
 
Land Development Planning, Zoning Approval, Permitting

ARM has developed a proactive community outreach plan to address public concerns regarding wildlife impacts, aesthetics, and noise impacts.  Furthermore, ARM will evaluate local zoning ordinances, building codes, and other regulatory permitting requirements and complete the steps necessary to successfully permit the project.

Civil Infrastructure Engineering

ARM’s engineers will examine the feasibility of constructing a large-scale wind energy installation at the prospective site.  ARM will evaluate the site’s suitability to accommodate wind turbine foundations, access roads, crane paths, crane pads, and electrical infrastructure. ARM will prepare the detailed civil, mechanical and electrical design drawings and contract documents for construction.

GIS Mapping & Visual Impact Studies

ARM’s in-house GIS capabilities allow it to quickly evaluate the potential view shed of the project.  ARM also has the ability to prepare photo-simulations of the project, and assess those areas that could be affected by shadow flicker.
 
Environmental Impact Assessments including:

• Erosion and Sediment Control Planning/NPDES Permits
  ARM has extensive experience preparing erosion and sediment control plans and preparing NPDES permit applications to minimize the environmental impact of the project and to accelerate the environmental permitting process.

• Ecological Impact Studies
  ARM’s in-house ecologists and biologists can assess potential impacts to sensitive environmental conditions and species of special concern within the wind energy project area.  From bog turtle studies to macro-invertebrate screenings, ARM can provide the full suite of ecological services to support the development of a wind energy project.

• Avian Impact Studies
  ARM biologists have the training and experience to perform migratory bird studies nesting surveys, roosting studies and for assessing the potential avian impacts of a wind energy project.  ARM also has strategic alliances with specialty consultants to perform bat studies.

• Noise Assessments
  ARM has the capability to assess the potential noise impacts of a wind energy project. This information is helpful in identifying the optimal location for siting wind turbines and assists in the attainment of zoning approval and assists in the attainment of zoning approval.

Wind Turbine Selection & Micro-Siting Analysis

Based on the wind characteristics and the site terrain, ARM has the ability to select the wind turbines best suited for a given site. ARM’s micro-siting analysis helps to optimize the siting of the wind turbines to ensure that maximum energy production is achieved.

Project Management and Quality Assurance Services

Once the project moves into the design and construction phase, ARM has the resources and expertise to manage the project construction using qualified contractors; providing quality assurance of all completed work.

Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Contracts

On behalf of the client, ARM can assist in establishing an equitable REC contract to ensure that the project developer is maximizing the potential return on investment.

Power Purchase Agreements

ARM can assist in establishing power purchase agreements with utilities or nearby large energy consumers to ensure the financial viability of the wind energy project.