Categorical Exclusion Determinations: B5.16

This page lists categorical exclusion determinations that apply B5.16. DOE has revised the text of B5.16 through rulemaking. To determine the applicable text, compare the date the categorical exclusion was signed to the DOE regulations in effect at that time.

As of May 30, 2024, the full text of this categorical exclusion is:

B5.16 Solar photovoltaic systems

(a) The installation, modification, operation, or decommissioning of commercially available solar photovoltaic systems:

(1) Located on a building or other structure (such as rooftop, parking lot or facility, or mounted to signage, lighting, gates, or fences); or

(2) Located within a previously disturbed or developed area.

(b) Covered actions would be in accordance with applicable requirements (such as land use and zoning requirements) in the proposed project area and the integral elements listed at the start of appendix B of this part, and would be consistent with applicable plans for the management of wildlife and habitat, including plans to maintain habitat connectivity, and incorporate appropriate control technologies and best management practices.

From November 14, 2011, through May 29, 2024, the full text of this categorical exclusion was:

B5.16 Solar photovoltaic systems

The installation, modification, operation, and removal of commercially available solar photovoltaic systems located on a building or other structure (such as rooftop, parking lot or facility, and mounted to signage, lighting, gates, or fences), or if located on land, generally comprising less than 10 acres within a previously disturbed or developed area. Covered actions would be in accordance with applicable requirements (such as local land use and zoning requirements) in the proposed project area and would incorporate appropriate control technologies and best management practices.

The US Department of Energy (DOE) Loan Programs Office (LPO) is considering whether to issue a Title XVII Innovative Clean Energy Program loan guarantee to Sunwealth’s Project Polo for integrating Virtual Power Plant (VPP) aggregation software with new solar generation systems and battery energy storage systems (BESS).