Our Projects
Wind Energy
Utility-scale wind energy projects require the construction of numerous uniquely tall turbines, which are almost always widely visible across the landscape. Vocal opposition is common and expected. While public acceptance of wind energy projects is a challenge under the best of circumstances, transparency and presentation of accurate information early in the process can counter misinformation and build stakeholder trust over the course of the regulatory approval process.
At Saratoga Associates, we understand the critical role that Visual Impact Assessments (VIA) play in the success of clean energy projects. Our experts specialize in delivering detailed, accurate, and timely assessments that help developers navigate regulatory hurdles and public scrutiny.
Saratoga Associates has extensive experience assisting project sponsors and environmental service professionals in addressing visual impact assessment requirements of New York State’s Article VIII (formerly section 94-c ) of the Public Service Law (PSL).
We are also the authors of the VIA component of the successfully approved Construction and Operations Plan (COP) for Vineyard 1, the nation’s first operational utility-scale offshore wind energy project. Having conducted similar analyses for five offshore projects in recent years, Saratoga Associates has unique experience addressing the detailed requirements of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s (BOEM) Seascape and Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (SLVIA) Procedure.
Project Highlight
Vineyard Wind 1 Visual Impact Assessment
Vineyard Wind is currently building the nation’s first utility-scale offshore wind energy project over 15 miles off the coast of Massachusetts. The project will generate clean, renewable, affordable energy for over 400,000 homes and businesses across the Commonwealth, while reducing carbon emissions by over 1.6 million tons per year
To address issues of potential aesthetic impact Vineyard Wind retained Saratoga Associates to conduct a Visual Impact Assessment to identify potential visibility of the Project and objectively determine the difference in landscape quality with and without the Project in place. The information and recommendations assisted regulatory agencies, interested stakeholders, and the general public in their review of the Project, in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
The visual impact assessment included evaluation of existing landscape character, identification of sensitive visual resources, and preparation of highly accurate photo simulations. The analysis took into consideration aspects unique to off-shore assessment including the screening effect of earth curvature, meteorological visibility and distant visibility of aviation obstruction lighting.
LOCATION:
Coastal Massachusetts
CLIENT:
Vineyard Wind, LLC
YEAR COMPLETED:
2020
SERVICES:
- Viewshed analysis covering Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Islands
- Visually Sensitive Resource and View Group Inventory
- Assessment of offshore meteorological conditions
- Aviation lighting visibility
- Photo Simulations (day and night conditions)
- Detailed Visual Impact Assessment Report
Project Highlight
Bliss Wind Repowering Project
AES is repowering the existing 100.5 MW Bliss wind generation facility located in the Town of Eagle, Wyoming county, New York. The repowering of this project will allow for continued production of clean energy, as well as help diversify the state’s energy resources while delivering affordable and reliable energy to meet New York’s rapidly growing electricity demand.
Saratoga Associates prepared a visual impact assessment (VIA) report to address requirements of Section 94-c of the New York State Accelerated Renewable Energy Growth and Community Benefit Act. The VIA determined the extent and assessed the significance of the Facility’s visibility. The VIA determined the extent and assessed the significance of the Facility’s visibility. The VIA included identification of VSRs, viewshed mapping, confirmatory visual assessment field work, visual simulations (photographic overlays), cumulative visual impact analysis, and proposed visual impacts minimization and mitigation plan.
LOCATION:
Eagle, Wyoming County, NY
CLIENT:
AES Corporation
YEAR COMPLETED:
2025
SERVICES:
- Viewshed Analysis
- Field Photography
- Photo Simulations
- 94c compliant Visual Impact Assessment
- Cumulative Impact Analysis
- Visual Impact Minimization and Mitigation Plan
