Challenge
The developer needed to evaluate permitting feasibility for a community scale solar project across several potential sites in Maryland.
What Clara Did
Clara analyzed more than 1,500 documents, including zoning and comprehensive plans, agricultural preservation rules, state CPCN guidance, prior solar and BESS applications, staff reports, Planning Commission and Council meeting minutes and public comments.
Key Insights Delivered
- Mapped step-by-step process for state CPCN and local approvals
- Identified 9 comparable projects with approval timelines and outlined conditions imposed
- Mapped local Planning Commission voting patterns
- Outlined agricultural preservation and mitigation requirements early
- Highlighted summary of community concerns raised in prior projects
Outcome
- Enabled site prioritization before land acquisition or application filing
- Cut down manual research by 2 weeks
- Saved $50k in consulting and land-use attorney fees
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