CEP Renewables Transforms Brownfield in New Jersey

CEP Renewables has officially commenced construction on the Foul Rift solar project, a 19 MW dc grid supply initiative located in White Township, New Jersey.

The project is situated on a former brownfield site that was previously home to a composting facility, which had caused significant environmental damage. The site required extensive remediation efforts before the solar project could begin.

CEP Renewables has positioned the Foul Rift project as a dual-purpose effort to both remediate the environment and advance clean energy infrastructure in New Jersey. The project is closely aligned with the state’s renewable energy objectives, which aim to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035. The solar farm will feature a fixed-tilt, bifacial solar module configuration and is expected to reach commercial operation by September 2024.

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Bohler’s Warren, New Jersey, team played a crucial role in the development of the Foul Rift project. Responsible for due diligence, conceptual planning, and determining site constraints to optimize the project’s footprint and efficiency, Bohler also handled the site plan design, ensuring the solar field was properly buffered from nearby residential areas.

The team provided expert testimony to the local planning board, securing necessary approvals and permits from outside jurisdictional agencies. Additionally, Bohler conducted a survey of surrounding tree heights to assess potential shadow impacts on the solar field. Throughout the construction phase, Bohler will offer ongoing support, including shop drawing reviews, participation in weekly meetings, and coordination with local and county authorities on permit approvals and plan updates.

In addition to its environmental and energy benefits, the project also addresses community needs. CEP Renewables partnered with White Township to provide a porous pavement walking path for the township’s recreational fields in exchange for interconnection easement rights. This collaboration helps fill a longstanding infrastructure gap for the community, which had previously faced funding constraints.

This project exemplifies a comprehensive approach to sustainable development, addressing both environmental remediation and renewable energy generation while also enhancing local community infrastructure.

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