NOVEMBER 202419approval, adding complexity to an already lengthy process. Developers are frequently forced to negotiate with utilities and local governments to overcome this bureaucratic hurdle.Overcoming Community Opposition: NIMBY and Public EngagementAnother significant challenge that emerges during the permitting process is opposition from residents, often referred to as the "Not In My Backyard" (NIMBY) movement. Community members may raise concerns over potential impacts such as decreased property values, altered landscapes or environmental disruption. This can delay or even derail the permitting process if not managed effectively.The key to overcoming NIMBY opposition is proactive and transparent community engagement. Developers should involve local stakeholders early in the process, holding public meetings and listening sessions to address concerns and demonstrate the project's benefits. By being responsive to community input and offering solutions--such as visual buffering with trees or sound barriers--developers can mitigate resistance and build local support. This is especially important in Colorado, where local control over land use is significant and community opposition can influence local governments' decision-making.The Backlog in High-Voltage Equipment ProcurementWhile permitting is often the most public-facing challenge in mid to late-stage development, developers are increasingly facing another major roadblock: delays in procuring high-voltage (HV) equipment for substations. This equipment is essential for connecting solar and battery storage projects to the grid, but supply chain constraints and high demand have led to significant backlogs at Independent System Operators (ISOs).These delays can push back a project's Commercial Operation Date (COD), creating a cascade of challenges, from missing regulatory deadlines to jeopardizing offtake agreements. To mitigate the risk of these delays, developers should consider pursuing an Engineering and Procurement (E&P) agreement. An E&P agreement allows the project to proceed with design and procurement activities for critical infrastructure, even before a final interconnection agreement is secured. By taking this proactive step, developers can expedite timelines and reduce the risk of missing their COD.ConclusionPermitting remains one of Colorado's most complex and challenging aspects of mid- to late-stage solar and battery storage development. The interplay between Conditional Use Permits and interconnection agreements, community opposition and equipment procurement delays creates a multifaceted landscape that developers must navigate carefully. By engaging with local communities early, securing E&P agreements to address equipment delays and understanding the nuances of Colorado's regulatory environment, developers can position their projects for success in this growing renewable energy market. Pursuing Engineering and Procurement agreements before securing interconnection can be a game changer, allowing projects to move forward and stay on track despite equipment delays
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