California Code of Regulations › Title 20 - Public Utilities and Energy › Division 2 - State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission › Chapter 5 - Power Plant Site Certification › Article 4.2 - Certification of Strategic Reliability Reserve Facilities › Appendix SRR - Application Requirements for Certification of Strategic Reliability Reserve Facilities

Current through Register 2024 Notice Reg. No. 28, July 12, 2024
(a) Project Design, Operation, and
					 Location
(1) A detailed description, including drawings of the
					 project's major structures, of the design, methods of construction (include
					 depth of excavations and other ground disturbances) and operation of the
					 facilities, specifically including the power generation, energy storage,
					 cooling, water supply and treatment, waste handling and control, pollution
					 control, fuel handling, and safety, emergency and auxiliary systems, and fuel
					 types and fuel use scenarios.
(2) A detailed description of the design, construction, and
					 operation of any electric transmission facilities, such as powerlines,
					 substations, switchyards, or other transmission equipment, that will be
					 constructed or modified to transmit electrical power from the proposed site and
					 related facilities to the load centers to be served by the facility. Such
					 description shall include the width of rights-of-way and the physical and
					 electrical characteristics of electrical transmission facilities such as
					 towers, conductors, and insulators. For each of the following, provide the
					 dimensions, and typical operating data:
(A) The power generation system;
(B) The heat dissipation system;
(C) Switchyards/transformer systems; and
(D) Other significant facilities, structures, or system
					 components proposed by the applicant, such as energy storage systems.
(3) Provide documentation from the interconnecting
					 authority, the California Independent System Operator, or the appropriate
					 Transmission Owner, as applicable, that the facility has approval to
					 interconnect to the electrical grid or the status of the application for this
					 formal approval, and an anticipated schedule for final approval.
(4) An explanation of the site selection criteria
					 establishing that the location selected for the proposed site and related
					 facilities is an optimal location based on the potential to improve
					 reliability, reduce the occurrence of public safety power shutoffs, decrease
					 the use of high-emission backup power, minimize air pollution, and avoid
					 impacts on disadvantaged communities, as identified pursuant to Health and
					 Safety Code section
					 39711.
(5) A detailed description of how the proposed site and
					 related facilities will be capable of delivering energy during net peak hours
					 in response to a dispatch by the Independent System Operator during extreme
					 events.
(6) A detailed description showing the site has access to
					 the infrastructure and resources with the necessary existing capacity and in
					 the proximity needed to operate the facility.
(b) Project Schedule
Proposed dates of initiation and completion of
					 construction, initial start-up, and full-scale operation of the proposed
					 facilities.
(c) Project Ownership
A list of all owners and operators of the site(s), the
					 facilities, and, if applicable, any adjacent interest holder such as a thermal
					 host, and a description of their legal interest in these facilities and legal
					 relationship with the applicant.
(d) Facility Closure
(1) A discussion of how facility closure will be
					 accomplished at the end of the term of the certificate or in the event of
					 premature or unexpected cessation of operations; or
(2) If the applicant plans to operate beyond the term of
					 the certificate, provide a discussion of how the applicant will obtain all
					 necessary permits, certificates, or similar documents required by state, local,
					 and federal governments.
(e) Environmental Information
(1) Cultural Resources and Tribal Cultural
					 Resources
Cultural resources and tribal cultural resources include
					 objects, buildings, structures, sites, features, areas, places, records, sacred
					 places, cultural landscapes, or manuscripts.
(A) Locate and provide all relevant existing data:
(i) Obtain and submit the results of a records search to
					 identify cultural resources and tribal cultural resources at the appropriate
					 information center(s) of the California Historical Resources Information System
					 (CHRIS). The records search shall cover the project site and a 1-mile buffer
					 around the project site and 0.25 mile on each side of any linear facilities.
					 Identify any cultural resources or tribal cultural resources listed pursuant to
					 ordinance by a city or county or recognized by any local historical or
					 archaeological society or museum.
(ii) Provide copies of California Department of Parks and
					 Recreation (DPR) 523 forms for all cultural resources and tribal cultural
					 resources identified in the records search. A copy of the USGS 7.5-minute
					 quadrangle map of the records search area delineating the areas of all past
					 surveys and noting the CHRIS identifying number shall be provided. Copies also
					 shall be provided of all technical reports whose survey coverage is wholly or
					 partly within 0.25 mile of the area surveyed for the project. Confidential
					 information (archaeological sites, other sensitive resources, or areas of
					 religious significance) shall be submitted under a request for confidentiality
					 pursuant to Title 20, California Code of Regulations, section
					 2501 et seq.
(B) Document and provide additional information:
(i) For the site: Conduct site specific surveys adequate to
					 establish existing conditions, to include:
a. Pedestrian archaeological surveys inclusive of the
					 project site and project linear facility routes, extending to no less than 200
					 feet around the project site, substations, and staging areas, and to no less
					 than 50 feet to either side of the right-of-way of project linear facility
					 routes, unless this survey has been conducted within the last five
					 years.
b. New historic architecture field surveys in rural areas
					 shall be conducted inclusive of the project site and the project linear
					 facility routes, extending no less than 0.5 mile out from the proposed plant
					 site and from the routes of all above-ground linear facilities. New historic
					 architecture field surveys in urban and suburban areas shall be conducted
					 inclusive of the project site, extending no less than one parcel's distance
					 from all proposed plant site boundaries. New historic architecture field
					 reconnaissance ("windshield survey") in urban and suburban areas shall be
					 conducted along the routes of all linear facilities to identify, inventory, and
					 characterize structures and districts that appear to be older than 45 years or
					 that are exceptionally significant, whatever their age, unless this survey has
					 been conducted within the last five years.
c. Submit:
i. a copy of the applicant's request to the Native American
					 Heritage Commission (NAHC) for information on Native American sacred sites and
					 lists of California Native American tribes interested in the project vicinity,
					 and copies of any correspondence received from the NAHC;
ii. A copy of all correspondence sent to Native American
					 individuals and groups listed by the NAHC and copies of all responses.
					 Notifications to Native American individuals and groups shall include a project
					 description and map; and
iii. A written summary of any oral responses.
d. Include plans for mitigation as follows:
i. An explanation of measures proposed to mitigate project
					 impacts to known cultural resources and tribal cultural resources;
ii. A set of contingency measures proposed to mitigate
					 potential impacts to previously unknown cultural resources and tribal cultural
					 resources and any unanticipated impacts to known cultural resources or tribal
					 cultural resources; and
iii. Training plans for employees to increase awareness
					 during construction and operation of risks to, and ways to protect against
					 impact to, cultural resources and tribal cultural resources.
e. Reports of the results of the new surveys shall be
					 submitted. If confidential, see Title 20, California Code of Regulations,
					 section 2501 et seq. The reports shall
					 include:
i. A summary of the records search results from subdivision
					 (e)(1)(A);
ii. The survey procedures and methods used to identify
					 cultural resources and tribal cultural resources and a discussion of the
					 outreach to the NAHC and California Native American tribes;
iii. Copies of all new and updated DPR 523(A) forms. If a
					 cultural resource or tribal cultural resource may be impacted by the project,
					 also include the appropriate DPR 523 detail form for each such resource;
iv. A map at a scale of 1:24,000 (U.S. Geological Survey
					 topographic quadrangle) depicting the locations of all previously known and
					 newly identified cultural resources and tribal cultural resources compiled
					 through the records search and cultural resource surveys; and
v. The names and qualifications of the cultural resources
					 specialists who contributed to and were responsible for literature searches,
					 surveys, and preparation of the technical report. New cultural resources and
					 tribal cultural resources surveys must be completed by (or under the direction
					 of) individuals who meet the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Standards
					 for the technical area addressed.
(2) Land Use
(A) In an appendix to the application, list current
					 assessor's parcel numbers and owners' names and addresses for all parcels
					 within 1000 feet of the site and related facilities. Provide the direct mailing
					 addresses for the owners and occupants of properties contiguous to the proposed
					 site and related facilities as shown on the latest equalized assessment
					 roll.
(B) In an appendix to the application, provide maps at a
					 scale of 1:24,000 (1" = 2000'), (or appropriate map scale agreed to by staff)
					 with an identification of the dedicated leaseholds by section, township, range,
					 county, and county assessor's parcel number, showing the proposed final
					 locations and layout of the facilities.
(C) A description of existing land uses, general plan land
					 use designations, and current zoning districts (including any overlay
					 districts) at the site, land uses and land use patterns within one mile of the
					 proposed site and within one-quarter mile of any project-related linear
					 facilities. Include:
(i) An identification of residential, commercial,
					 industrial, recreational, scenic, agricultural, natural resource protection,
					 natural resource extraction, educational, religious, cultural, and historic
					 areas, and any other area of unique land uses;
(ii) An inventory of any recent or proposed zone changes
					 and/or general plan amendments noticed by an elected or appointed board,
					 commission, or similar entity at the state or local level impacting the
					 proposed site;
(iii) Identification of all discretionary reviews by public
					 agencies initiated or completed within 18 months prior to filing the
					 application for those changes or developments identified in subdivision
					 (e)(2)(C); and
(iv) Legible maps of the areas identified in subdivision
					 (e)(2)(C) potentially affected by the project, on which existing land uses,
					 jurisdictional boundaries, general plan designations, specific plan
					 designations, and zoning have been clearly delineated.
(D) An explanation of the compatibility of the proposed
					 project with present and expected land uses, and conformity with any long-range
					 land use plans and policies adopted by any federal, state, regional, or local
					 planning agencies. The explanation shall identify the need, if any, for land
					 use decisions by another public agency or as part of the commission's decision
					 that would be necessary to make the project conform to adopted federal, state,
					 regional, or local coastal plans, land use plans, or zoning ordinances.
					 Examples of land use decisions include: general plan amendments, zoning
					 changes, lot line adjustments, parcel mergers, subdivision maps, Agricultural
					 Land Conservation Act contracts cancellation, and Airport Land Use Plan
					 consistency determinations.
(E) A description of the legal status of the parcel(s) on
					 which the project is proposed.
(F) A map at a scale of 1:24,000 and written description of
					 agricultural land uses found within all areas affected by the proposed project.
					 The description shall include:
(i) Land classifications as shown on the Farmland Mapping
					 and Monitoring Program's Important Farmland Series maps defined in Government
					 Code section
					 65560(f),
					 crop types, irrigation systems, and any special cultivation practices;
(ii) Whether agricultural land affected by the project was
					 historically classified Farmland by the California Department of Conservation
					 (Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, or Unique Farmland) as
					 specified in Public Resources Code section
					 21060.1;
					 and
(iii) Adverse effects on agricultural land uses. If the
					 proposed site or related facilities are subject to an Agricultural Land
					 Conservation contract, provide a written copy and a discussion of the status of
					 the expiration or canceling of such contract.
(3) Noise
(A) On the map submitted pursuant to subdivision (e)(2)(B),
					 identify residences, hospitals, libraries, schools, places of worship, or other
					 facilities where quiet is an important attribute of the environment within the
					 area impacted by the proposed project. The area potentially impacted by the
					 proposed project is that area where, during either construction or operation,
					 there is a potential increase of 5 dB(A) or more, over existing background
					 levels.
(B) A description of the existing ambient noise levels at
					 those sites identified under subdivision (e)(3)(A) that the applicant believes
					 provide a representative characterization of the ambient noise levels in the
					 project vicinity, and a discussion of the general atmospheric conditions,
					 including temperature, humidity, and the presence of wind and rain at the time
					 of the measurements. The existing noise levels shall be determined by taking
					 noise measurements for a minimum of 25 consecutive hours at a minimum of one
					 site. Other sites may be monitored for a lesser duration at the applicant's
					 discretion, preferably during the same 25-hour period. The results of the noise
					 level measurements shall be reported as hourly averages in
					 Leq (equivalent sound or noise level),
					 Ldn (day-night sound or noise level) or CNEL (Community
					 Noise Equivalent Level) in units of dB(A). The L10,
					 L50, and L90 values (noise levels
					 exceeded 10 percent, 50 percent, and 90 percent of the time, respectively)
					 shall also be reported in units of dB(A).
(C) A description of the major noise sources of the
					 project, including the range of noise levels and the tonal and frequency
					 characteristics of the noise emitted.
(D) An estimate of the project noise levels, during both
					 construction and operation, at residences, hospitals, libraries, schools,
					 places of worship, or other facilities where quiet is an important attribute of
					 the environment, within the area impacted by the proposed project.
(E) An estimate of the project noise levels within the
					 project site boundary during both construction and operation and the impact to
					 the workers at the site due to the estimated noise levels.
(F) The audible noise from existing switchyards and
					 overhead transmission lines that would be affected by the project, and
					 estimates of the future audible noise levels that would result from existing
					 and proposed switchyards and transmission lines. Noise levels shall be
					 calculated at the property boundary for switchyards and at the edge of the
					 rights-of-way for transmission lines.
(4) Traffic and Transportation
(A) A regional transportation setting, on topographic maps
					 (scale of 1:250,000), identifying the project location and major transportation
					 facilities used during the construction or operation of the facility. Include a
					 reference to the transportation element of any applicable local or regional
					 plan.
(B) If the proposed project including any linear facility
					 is to be located within four miles of an airport, a planned or proposed airport
					 runway, or an airport runway under construction, discuss the project's
					 compliance with the applicable sections of the current Federal Aviation
					 Regulation Part 77--Safe, Efficient Use, and Preservation of the Navigable
					 Airspace, specifically any potential to obstruct or impede air navigation
					 generated by the project during construction or operation; such as, a thermal
					 plume, a visible water vapor plume, glare, electrical interference, or surface
					 structure height. The discussion should include:
(i) A map at a scale of 1:24,000 that displays the airport
					 or airstrip runway configuration, the airport influence area including all
					 safety zones, and the proposed facilities;
(ii) A thermal plume analysis that describes the plume's
					 velocity;
(iii) A discussion of the project's conformance with
					 applicable Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan policies; and
(iv) Copies of FAA Form 7460-1, Notice of Proposed
					 Construction or Alteration, that were submitted or approved for any project
					 component requiring notice.
(C) An evaluation of the project's potential impacts,
					 during construction and operation, related to vehicle miles traveled (VMT) that
					 shall include one or more of the following:
(i) The local jurisdiction's thresholds of
					 significance;
(ii) Methodologies (such as local VMT Evaluation
					 Tool);
(iii) VMT heat maps; and
(iv) Transportation demand management plans and any
					 documents supporting the project applicant's VMT evaluation.
(D) An identification, on topographic maps at a scale of
					 1:24,000 and a description of existing and planned roads, rail lines (including
					 light rail), bike trails, airports, bus routes serving the project vicinity,
					 pipelines, and canals in the project area affected by or serving the proposed
					 facility. For each road identified, include the following information, where
					 applicable:
(i) Road classification and design capacity;
(ii) Weight and load limitations;
(iii) An identification of any road features affecting
					 public safety.
(E) An assessment of the construction and operation impacts
					 of the proposed project on the transportation facilities identified in
					 subdivision (e)(4)(D). Also include:
(i) Anticipated project-specific traffic, estimated daily
					 average and peak traffic trips and traffic/truck mix, and the impact of
					 construction of any facilities identified in subdivision (e)(4)(D);
(ii) Estimated one-way trip lengths for workers,
					 deliveries, and truck haul trips generated by the construction of the project;
					 and
(iii) Description of public roadways and intersections
					 temporarily or permanently altered by construction and operation including the
					 duration of activities.
(F) A discussion of project-related hazardous materials to
					 be transported to or from the project during construction and operation of the
					 project, including the types, estimated quantities, estimated number of trips,
					 anticipated routes, means of transportation, and any transportation hazards
					 associated with such transport.
(5) Socioeconomics
(A) Provide a discussion of the socioeconomic impacts
					 caused by the construction and operation of the project (note year of estimate,
					 model, if used, and appropriate sources), including:
(i) An estimate of the number of workers to be employed
					 each month during construction (by occupation), and for operations, an estimate
					 of the number of permanent operations workers during a year;
(ii) An estimate of the percentage of non-local workers who
					 will relocate to the project area to work during the project construction and
					 operation; and
(iii) An estimate of the potential temporary and permanent
					 population increase caused directly and indirectly by the project. For those
					 additional persons, describe whether any political subdivisions serving
					 residents and visitors are impacted by the population change. Include
					 applicable impacts to school districts, hospital or ambulance districts, fire
					 districts, parks and recreational districts, and other impacted local
					 entities.
(6) Air Quality
(A) The information necessary for the air pollution control
					 district where the project is located to complete a Determination of Compliance
					 review to determine whether the proposed facility meets the requirements of the
					 applicable new source review rule and all other applicable district
					 regulations.
(B) The heating value and chemical characteristics of the
					 proposed fuels, the stack height and diameter, the exhaust velocity and
					 temperature, the heat rate and the expected capacity factor of the proposed
					 facility.
(C) A description of the control technologies proposed to
					 limit the emission of criteria pollutants.
(D) If applicable, a description of the cooling system, the
					 estimated cooling tower drift rate, the rate of water flow through the cooling
					 tower, and the maximum concentrations of total dissolved solids.
(E) The emission rates of criteria pollutants and
					 greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4, N2O, and SF6) from the stack, cooling towers, fuels
					 and materials handling processes, delivery and storage systems, and from all
					 on-site secondary emission sources.
(F) A description of the following:
(i) Typical operational modes, and start-up and shutdown
					 modes for the proposed project, including the estimated frequency of occurrence
					 and duration of each mode, and estimated emission rate for each criteria
					 pollutant during each mode; and
(ii) The project's planned initial commissioning phase,
					 which is the phase between the first firing of emissions sources and the
					 commercial operations date, including the types and durations of equipment
					 tests, criteria pollutant emissions, and monitoring techniques to be used
					 during such tests.
(G) Representative meteorological data available from the
					 California Air Resources Board or the local air pollution district.
(H) An evaluation of the project's air quality impacts,
					 consisting of the following:
(i) An analysis of the criteria pollutant impacts of
					 project construction activities, including fugitive dust (PM10) emissions from
					 grading, excavation and site disturbance, as well as the combustion emissions
					 [nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and
					 particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter (PM10) and particulate
					 matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter (PM2.5)] from construction-related
					 equipment according to local air district requirements;
(ii) A screening level air quality modeling analysis, or a
					 more detailed modeling analysis if so desired by the applicant, of the direct
					 criteria pollutant (NOx, SO2, CO, PM10, and PM2.5) impacts on ambient air
					 quality conditions of the project during typical (normal) operation, and during
					 shutdown and startup modes of operation. Identify and include in the modeling
					 of each operating mode the estimated maximum emissions rates and the assumed
					 meteorological conditions;
(iii) A cumulative air quality modeling impacts analysis of
					 the project's typical operating mode in combination with sources in the
					 vicinity of the project that are not adequately represented by ambient
					 monitoring data; and
(iv) an air dispersion modeling analyses of the impacts of
					 the initial commissioning phase emissions on state and federal ambient air
					 quality standards for NOx, SO2, CO, PM10, and PM2.5.
(I) If an emission offset strategy is proposed to mitigate
					 the project's impacts under subdivision (f)(1), provide the following
					 information:
(i) The quantity of offsets or emission reductions that are
					 needed to satisfy air permitting requirements of local permitting agencies
					 (such as the air district), state and federal oversight air agencies, and the
					 California Energy Commission. Identify by criteria air pollutant, and if
					 appropriate, greenhouse gas; and
(ii) Potential offset sources, including location, and
					 quantity of emission reductions.
(J) a detailed description of the mitigation, if any, that
					 an applicant may propose, for all project impacts from criteria pollutants that
					 currently exceed state or federal ambient air quality standards, but are not
					 subject to offset requirements under the district's new source review
					 rule.
(7) Public Health
(A) An assessment of the potential risk to human health
					 from the project's hazardous air emissions using the cancer potency values and
					 noncancer reference exposure levels approved by the Office of Environmental
					 Health Hazard Assessment in the document titled Risk Assessment Guidelines:
					 Guidance Manual for Preparation of Health Risk Assessments (February 2015),
					 hereby incorporated by reference.
(B) A listing of the input data and output results, in both
					 electronic and print formats, used to prepare the health risk
					 assessment.
(C) A map showing sensitive receptors within the area
					 exposed to the substances identified in subdivision (e)(7)(A).
(D) For purposes of this section, the following definitions
					 apply:
(i) A sensitive receptor refers to infants and children,
					 the elderly, and the chronically ill, and any other member of the general
					 population who is more susceptible to the effects of the exposure than the
					 population at large;
(ii) An acute exposure is one that occurs over a time
					 period of less than or equal to one (1) hour;
(iii) A chronic exposure is one that occurs from one (1)
					 year to a lifetime.
(8) Hazardous Materials Handling
(A) A list of all materials used or stored on-site that are
					 hazardous or acutely hazardous, as defined in Title 22, California Code of
					 Regulations, section
					 66261.20 et seq., and a discussion
					 of the toxicity of each material.
(B) A map at a scale of 1:24,000 depicting the location of
					 schools, hospitals, day-care facilities, and long-term health care facilities,
					 within the area potentially affected by any release of hazardous
					 materials.
(C) A discussion of the storage and handling system for
					 each hazardous material used or stored at the site.
(D) The protocol that will be used in modeling potential
					 consequences of accidental releases that could result in offsite impacts.
					 Identify the model(s) to be used, and a description of all input assumptions,
					 including meteorological conditions. The results of the modeling analysis can
					 be substituted after the application is complete pursuant to Section
					 1893.
(E) A discussion of whether a risk management plan (Health
					 and Safety Code section
					 25531
					 et seq.) will be required, and if so, the requirements that will likely be
					 incorporated into the plan.
(F) A discussion of measures proposed to reduce the risk of
					 any release of hazardous materials.
(G) A discussion of the fire and explosion risks associated
					 with the project.
(9) Worker Safety
(A) A description of the safety training programs that will
					 be required for construction and operation personnel.
(B) A description of the fuel handling system, the fire
					 suppression system, and the fire alarm system for the project.
(10) Waste Management
(A) A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) for the
					 proposed site using methods prescribed by the American Society for Testing and
					 Materials (ASTM) document entitled "Standard Practice for Environmental Site
					 Assessments: Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment Process" (Designation: E
					 1527-21, Nov. 2021), hereby incorporated by reference; or an equivalent method
					 agreed upon by the applicant and staff that provides similar documentation of
					 the potential level and extent of site contamination. The Phase I ESA shall
					 have been completed no earlier than one year prior to the filing of the
					 application.
(B) A description of each waste stream estimated to be
					 generated during project construction and operation, including origin,
					 hazardous or nonhazardous classification pursuant to Title 22, California Code
					 of Regulations, section
					 66261.20 et seq., chemical
					 composition, estimated annual weight or volume generated, and estimated
					 frequency of generation.
(C) A description of all waste disposal sites that may
					 feasibly be used for disposal of project wastes. For each site, include the
					 name, location, classification under Title 23, California Code of Regulations,
					 section 2530 et seq., the daily or annual
					 permitted capacity, daily or annual amounts of waste currently being accepted,
					 the estimated closure date and remaining capacity, and a description of any
					 enforcement action taken by local or state agencies due to waste disposal
					 activities at the site.
(D) A description of management methods for each waste
					 stream, including methods used to minimize waste generation, length of on- and
					 off-site waste storage, re-use and recycling opportunities, waste treatment
					 methods used, and use of contractors for treatment.
(11) Biological Resources
(A) A regional overview and discussion of terrestrial and
					 aquatic biological resources, with particular attention to sensitive biological
					 resources within ten (10) miles of the project. In the discussion, include a
					 list of the USGS topographic quadrangle(s) utilized to search records from the
					 California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), and a citation that includes the
					 date the CNDDB was accessed. Include a map at a scale of 1:6,000 (under
					 confidential cover) and at 1:350,000 (for public) showing sensitive biological
					 resource location(s) in relation to the project site and related facilities and
					 any boundaries of a local Habitat Conservation Plan or similar open space land
					 use plan or designation. Label the biological resources and survey areas as
					 well as the project facilities. Sensitive biological resources include the
					 following:
(i) Species listed under state or federal Endangered
					 Species Acts;
(ii) Species identified as state Fully Protected;
(iii) Species covered by the Migratory Bird Treaty
					 Act;
(iv) Species and habitats identified by local, state, and
					 federal agencies as needing protection, including but not limited to those
					 identified by the CNDDB, or where applicable, in Local Coastal Programs or in
					 relevant decisions of the California Coastal Commission or other responsible
					 agency;
(v) Locally significant species that are rare or uncommon
					 in a local context such as county or region or is so designated in local or
					 regional plans, policies, or ordinances;
(vi) Plant species listed as rare under the California
					 Native Plant Protection Act; and
(vii) Established native resident or migratory wildlife
					 corridors or wildlife nursery sites.
(B) Include a list of the species and habitat(s) actually
					 observed and those with a potential to occur within 1 mile of the project
					 site.
(C) Maps or aerial photographs shall include the
					 following:
(i) Detailed maps at a scale of 1:6,000 or color aerial
					 photographs taken at a recommended scale of 1-inch equals 500 feet (1:6,000)
					 with a 30 percent overlap (provided under confidential cover) that show the
					 proposed project site and related facilities, biological resources including,
					 but not limited to, those found during project-related field surveys and in
					 records from the CNDDB, and the associated areas where biological surveys were
					 conducted. Label the biological resources and survey areas as well as the
					 project facilities;
(ii) Provide an aerial map of the isopleth graphic
					 depicting modeled nitrogen deposition rates. The geographical extent of the
					 nitrogen deposition map(s) should include the entire plume and a radius of 6
					 (six) miles from the source, specifically identifying acres of sensitive
					 habitat(s) within each isopleth. Modeling parameters and files shall be
					 provided;
(iii) An aerial photo map depicting state and federal
					 jurisdictional aquatic features including waters of the United States and
					 waters of the state, delineated on maps at a scale of (1:2,400). Maps must
					 depict any potential jurisdictional features delineated out to 250 feet past
					 the edge of disturbance if jurisdictional features occur within 250 feet of the
					 project site. Maps shall also depict any related features that would be subject
					 to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction pursuant to Section
					 404 of the Clean Water Act, state
					 Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) jurisdiction, or Fish and Game
					 Code section
					 1600 et
					 seq. (Lake and Streambed Alteration) permit requirements. For projects proposed
					 to be located within the coastal zone, also provide aerial photographs and maps
					 as described above that identify wetlands as defined by the Coastal Zone
					 Management Act and under the jurisdiction of the California Coastal Commission;
					 and
(iv) Provide Geographic Information System (GIS) data
					 (shape and/or geodatabase files) for all data mapped for biological
					 resources.
(D) A discussion of the biological resources at the
					 proposed project site and related facilities. Related facilities include, but
					 are not limited to, laydown and parking areas, gas and water supply pipelines,
					 transmission lines, and roads. The discussion shall address the distribution of
					 vegetation community types, denning or nesting sites, population
					 concentrations, migration corridors, breeding habitats, and other appropriate
					 biological resources including the following:
(i) A list of sensitive species and habitats with a
					 potential to occur (as defined in (A) above), including status (e.g., state,
					 federal, California Native Plant Society, global rank, state rank); and
(ii) Nitrogen deposition modeling including the complete
					 citation for references used in determining deposition rates and location.
					 Specify the amount of total annual nitrogen deposition in kilograms of nitrogen
					 per hectare per year (kg N/ha/yr) in special status species, habitats, and
					 vegetation types for wet and dry deposition. Describe habitat and species
					 potentially affected.
(E) A description and results of all field studies and
					 specialized surveys (e.g., focused and protocol) used to provide biological
					 baseline information about the project site and associated facilities. Include
					 copies of the CNDDB records and field survey forms completed by the applicant's
					 biologist(s). Identify the date(s) the surveys were completed, methods used to
					 complete the surveys, and the name(s) and qualifications of the biologists
					 conducting the surveys. Include:
(i) Current biological resources surveys conducted using
					 appropriate field survey protocols (include references) during the appropriate
					 season(s). State and federal agencies with jurisdiction shall be consulted for
					 field survey protocol guidance prior to surveys, if a protocol exists;
(ii) If the project or any related facilities could impact
					 federal or state jurisdictional-wetland, provide completed U.S. Army Corps of
					 Engineers wetland delineation forms and/or determination of wetland status
					 pursuant to Coastal Act or California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
					 requirements, as applicable to the location, name(s) and qualifications of
					 biologist(s) completing the delineation, the results of the delineation, and a
					 table showing jurisdictional features including state waters and wetland
					 acreage amounts to be impacted.
(F) A discussion of all impacts (direct, indirect, and
					 cumulative) to biological resources from project site preparation, construction
					 activities, plant operation, maintenance, closure, and decommissioning.
					 Discussion shall also address sensitive species habitat impacts from air
					 emissions (e.g., nitrogen deposition).
(G) A discussion of all feasible mitigation measures and an
					 evaluation of their anticipated efficacy in reducing the level of impacts,
					 including, but not limited to the following:
(i) All measures proposed to avoid and/or reduce adverse
					 impacts to biological resources; and
(ii) Educational programs to enhance employee awareness
					 during construction and operation to protect biological resources.
(H) A discussion of compliance and monitoring programs to
					 ensure the effectiveness of impact avoidance and mitigation measures
					 incorporated into the project.
(I) Submit copies of any preliminary correspondence between
					 the project applicant and state and federal resource agencies regarding whether
					 federal or state permits from other agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
					 Service, the National Marine Fisheries Service, the U.S. Army Corps of
					 Engineers, the CDFW, and the RWQCB will be required, or would be required but
					 for the exclusive jurisdiction of the commission, for the proposed
					 project.
(12) Water Resources
(A) All the information required to apply for the following
					 permits, if applicable, including:
(i) Waste Discharge Requirements; National Pollutant
					 Discharge Elimination System Permit(s); and/or a Section
					 401 Certification or Waiver from
					 the appropriate RWQCB;
(ii) Construction and Industrial Waste Discharge and/or
					 Industrial Pretreatment permits from wastewater treatment agencies;
(iii) Nationwide Permits and/or Section
					 404 Permits from the U.S. Army
					 Corps of Engineers, if applicable; and
(iv) Underground Injection Control Permit(s) from the U.S.
					 Environmental Protection Agency, California Geologic Energy Management Division
					 (CalGEM), and RWQCB.
(B) A detailed description of the hydrologic setting of the
					 project. The information shall include a narrative discussion and on maps at a
					 scale of 1:24,000 (or appropriate scale approved by staff), describing the
					 chemical and physical characteristics of the following nearby water bodies that
					 may be affected by the proposed project:
(i) Ground water bodies and related geologic
					 structures;
(ii) Surface water bodies;
(iii) Water inundation zones, such as the 100-year flood
					 plain and tsunami run-up zones;
(iv) Flood control facilities (existing and proposed);
					 and
(v) Groundwater wells within 1/2 mile if the project will
					 include groundwater pumping.
(C) A description of the water to be used and discharged by
					 the project. This information shall include:
(i) Source(s) of the primary and back-up water supplies and
					 the rationale for their selection;
(ii) The expected physical and chemical characteristics of
					 the source and discharge water(s) including identification of both organic and
					 inorganic constituents before and after any project-related treatment. For
					 source waters with seasonal variation, provide seasonal ranges of the expected
					 physical and chemical characteristics. Provide copies of background material
					 used to create this description (e.g., laboratory analysis);
(iii) Average and maximum daily and annual water demand and
					 wastewater discharge for both the construction and operation phases of the
					 project;
(iv) A detailed description of all facilities to be used in
					 water conveyance (from primary source to the site), water treatment, and
					 wastewater discharge;
(v) For all water supplies intended for industrial uses to
					 be provided from public or private water purveyors, a letter of intent or
					 will-serve letter indicating that the purveyor is willing to serve the project,
					 has adequate supplies available for the life of the project, and any conditions
					 or restrictions under which water will be provided. In the event that a
					 will-serve letter or letter of intent cannot be provided, identify the most
					 likely water purveyor and discuss the necessary assurances from the water
					 purveyor to serve the project;
(vi) For all water supplied that necessitates transfers
					 and/or exchanges at any point, identify all parties and contracts/agreements
					 involved, and provide the status of all appropriate agencies' approvals for the
					 proposed use, environmental impact analysis on the specific transfers and/or
					 exchanges required to obtain the proposed supplies, a copy of any agency
					 regulations that govern the use of the water, and an explanation of how the
					 project complies with the agency regulation(s);
(vii) Provide water mass balance and heat balance diagrams
					 for both average and maximum flows that include all process and/or ancillary
					 water supplies and wastewater streams. Highlight any water conservation
					 measures on the diagram and the amount that they reduce water demand;
					 and
(viii) For all projects that have a discharge, provide a
					 copy of a will-serve letter, permit, or contract with the public or private
					 entity that will be accepting the wastewater and contact (oil-contaminated)
					 storm water from the project. The letter, permit, or contract, if possible,
					 shall identify the discharge volumes and the chemical or physical
					 characteristics under which the wastewater and contact storm water will be
					 accepted.
In the event that a will-serve letter, permit, or contract
					 cannot be provided, identify the most likely wastewater/storm water entity and
					 discuss why the applicant was unable to secure the necessary assurances to
					 serve the project's wastewater/storm water needs. Also, discuss the term of the
					 wastewater service to the project, whether the wastewater entity has adequate
					 permit capacity for the volume of wastewater from the project and has adequate
					 permit levels for the chemical/physical characteristics of the project's
					 wastewater and storm water for the life of the project, and any issues or
					 conditions/restrictions the wastewater entity may impose on the project.
(D) Identify all project elements associated with
					 stormwater drainage, including a description of the following:
(i) Monthly and/or seasonal precipitation and stormwater
					 runoff and drainage patterns for the proposed site and surrounding area that
					 may be affected by the project's construction and operation;
(ii) Drainage facilities and the design criteria used for
					 the project site and ancillary facilities, including, but not limited to,
					 capacity of designed system, design storm, and estimated runoff;
(iii) All assumptions and calculations used to calculate
					 runoff and to estimate changes in flow rates between pre- and
					 post-construction; and
(iv) A copy of applicable regional and local requirements
					 regulating the drainage systems, and a discussion of how the project's drainage
					 design complies with these requirements.
(E) An impacts analysis of the proposed project on water
					 resources and a discussion of conformance with water-related laws, ordinances,
					 regulations, standards, and policies. This discussion shall include:
(i) The effects of project demand on the water supply and
					 other users of this source, including, but not limited to, water availability
					 for other uses during construction or after the facility begins operation,
					 which includes preparation of a water supply assessment by the water supplier
					 if the project meets any of the criteria described in California Water Code,
					 sections
					 10910-
					 10915;
					 consistency of the water use with applicable RWQCB basin plans or other
					 applicable resource management plans, and any changes in the physical or
					 chemical conditions of existing water supplies as a result of water use by the
					 facility;
(ii) If the project will pump groundwater, an estimation of
					 aquifer drawdown, including the estimated drawdown at neighboring wells within
					 0.5 mile of the proposed well(s), based on mathematical or numerical modeling
					 analysis conducted by a professional geologist, and an assessment of any
					 effects on the migration of groundwater contaminants, and the likelihood of any
					 changes in existing physical or chemical conditions of groundwater resources
					 shall be provided;
(iii) The effects of construction activities and facility
					 operation on water quality and to what extent these effects could be mitigated
					 by implementation of best management practices;
(iv) Unless the facility will use a zero liquid discharge
					 system for cooling and process waters, include an assessment of the effects of
					 the proposed wastewater disposal method on receiving waters, the feasibility of
					 using pre-treatment techniques to reduce impacts, and beneficial uses of the
					 receiving waters. Include an explanation why a zero liquid discharge process is
					 environmentally undesirable or economically unsound;
(v) If using fresh water, include a discussion of the
					 cumulative impacts, alternative water supply sources and alternative cooling
					 technologies considered as part of the project design. Include an explanation
					 of why alternative water supplies and alternative cooling methods are
					 environmentally undesirable, or economically unsound;
(vi) The effects of the project on the 100-year flood
					 plain, flooding potential of adjacent lands or water bodies, or other water
					 inundation zones; and
(vii) All assumptions, evidence, references, and
					 calculations used in the analysis to assess these effects.
(13) Soils
(A) A map at a scale of 1:24,000 and written description of
					 soil types and all agricultural land uses that will be affected by the proposed
					 project. The description shall include:
(i) The depth, texture, permeability, drainage, erosion
					 hazard rating, and land capability class of the soil;
(ii) An identification of other physical and chemical
					 characteristics of the soil necessary to allow an evaluation of soil
					 erodibility, permeability, re-vegetation potential, and cycling of pollutants
					 in the soil-vegetation system;
(iii) The location of any proposed fill disposal or fill
					 procurement (borrow) sites; and
(iv) The location of any contaminated soils that could be
					 disturbed by project construction.
(B) An assessment of the effects of the proposed project on
					 soil resources and agricultural land uses. This discussion shall
					 include:
(i) The quantification of accelerated soil loss due to wind
					 and water erosion; and
(ii) The effect of facility emissions on surrounding
					 soil-vegetation systems.
(14) Paleontologic Resources
(A) Identification of the Geomorphic Province, as defined
					 by the California Department of Conservation, California Geological Survey Note
					 36, dated December 2002, hereby incorporated by eference, and a brief summary
					 of the geologic setting, formations, and stratigraphy of the project area. The
					 size of the paleonotological study area may vary depending on the depositional
					 history of the region.
(B) A discussion of the sensitivity of the project area
					 described in subdivision (e)(14)(A) and the presence and significance of any
					 known paleontologic localities or other paleontologic resources within or
					 adjacent to the project. Include a discussion of sensitivity for each geologic
					 unit identified on the most recent geologic map at a scale of 1:24,000. Provide
					 rationale as to why the sensitivity was assigned.
(C) A summary of all local museums, literature searches and
					 field surveys used to provide information about paleontologic resources in the
					 project area described in subdivision (e)(14)(A). Identify the dates of the
					 surveys, methods used in completing the surveys, and the names and
					 qualifications of the individuals conducting the surveys.
(D) Information on the specific location of known
					 paleontologic resources, survey reports, locality records, and maps at a scale
					 of 1:24,000, showing occurrences of fossil finds, if known, within a one-mile
					 radius of the project and related facilities shall be included in a separate
					 appendix to the Application and submitted to the Commission under a request for
					 confidentiality, pursuant to Title 20, California Code of Regulations, section
					 2501 et seq.
(E) A discussion of any educational programs proposed to
					 enhance employees' awareness of potential impacts to paleontological resources,
					 measures proposed for mitigation of impacts to known paleontologic resources,
					 and a set of contingency measures for mitigation of potential impacts to
					 currently unknown paleontologic resources.
(15) Geological Hazards and Resources
(A) A summary of the geology, seismicity, and geologic
					 resources of the project site and related facilities, including linear
					 facilities.
(B) A map at a scale of 1:24,000 and description of all
					 recognized stratigraphic units, geologic structures, and geomorphic features
					 within two (2) miles of the project site and along proposed linear facilities.
					 Include an analysis of the likelihood of ground rupture, seismic shaking, mass
					 wasting and slope stability, liquefaction, subsidence, tsunami runup, and
					 expansion or collapse of soil structures at the facility site. Describe known
					 geologic hazards along or crossing linear facilities.
(C) A map and description of geologic resources of
					 recreational, commercial, or scientific value that may be affected by the
					 project. Include a discussion of the techniques used to identify and evaluate
					 these resources.
(16) Transmission System Safety and
					 Nuisance
(A) The locations and a description of the existing
					 switchyards and overhead and underground transmission lines that would be
					 affected by the proposed project.
(B) An estimate of the existing electric and magnetic
					 fields from the facilities listed in subdivision (e)(16)(A) above and the
					 future electric and magnetic fields that would be created by the proposed
					 project, calculated at the property boundary of the site and at the edge of the
					 rights of way for any transmission line. Also provide an estimate of the radio
					 and television interference that could result from the project.
(C) Specific measures proposed to mitigate identified
					 impacts, including a description of measures proposed to eliminate or reduce
					 radio and television interference, and all measures taken to reduce electric
					 and magnetic field levels.
(f) Engineering
(1) Transmission System Design
(A) A discussion of the need for any additional electric
					 transmission lines, substations, or other equipment, the basis for selecting
					 principal points of junction with the existing electric transmission system,
					 and the capability and voltage levels of the proposed lines, along with the
					 basis for selection of the capacity and voltage levels.
(B) A discussion of the extent to which the proposed
					 electric transmission facilities have been designed, planned, and routed to
					 meet the transmission requirements created by additional generating facilities
					 planned by the applicant or any other entity.
(2) Reliability
(A) A discussion of the sources and availability of the
					 fuel or fuels to be used over the estimated service life of the
					 facilities.
(B) A discussion of the anticipated service life and degree
					 of reliability expected to be achieved by the proposed facilities based on a
					 consideration of:
(i) Expected overall availability factor, and annual and
					 lifetime capacity factors;
(ii) The demonstrated or anticipated feasibility of the
					 technologies, systems, components, and measures proposed to be employed in the
					 facilities, including the power generation system, the energy storage system,
					 and the heat dissipation system;
(iii) Geologic and flood hazards, meteorologic conditions
					 and climatic extremes, and cooling water availability;
(iv) Special design features adopted by the applicant or
					 resource supplier to ensure facility reliability including equipment
					 redundancy; and
(v) For technologies not previously installed and operated
					 in California, the expected facility maturation period.
(3) Efficiency
(A) Heat and mass balance diagrams for design conditions
					 for each mode of operation.
(B) Annual fuel consumption in BTUs for each mode of
					 operation, including hot restarts and cold starts.
(C) Annual net electrical energy produced in MWh for each
					 mode of operation, including starts and shutdowns.
(D) Number of hours the plant will be operated in each
					 design condition in each year.
(E) If the project will be a cogeneration facility,
					 calculations showing compliance with applicable efficiency and operating
					 standards.
(F) A discussion of alternative generating technologies
					 available for the project, including the projected efficiency of each, and an
					 explanation why the chosen equipment was selected over these
					 alternatives.
(g) Compliance with Laws, Ordinances, Regulations,
					 and Standards
(1) Provide tables that identify:
(A) Laws, regulations, ordinances, standards, adopted
					 local, regional, state, and federal land use plans, leases, and permits
					 applicable to the proposed project, and a discussion of the applicability of,
					 and conformance with each. The table or matrix shall explicitly reference pages
					 in the application wherein conformance, with each law or standard during both
					 construction and operation of the facility is discussed; and
(B) Each agency with jurisdiction to issue applicable
					 permits, leases, and approvals or to enforce identified laws, regulations,
					 standards, and adopted local, regional, state, and federal land use plans, and
					 agencies that would have permit approval or enforcement authority, but for the
					 exclusive jurisdiction of the commission to certify sites and related
					 facilities.
(2) The name, title, phone number, address, and email
					 address (if known), of an official who was contacted within each agency, and
					 also provide the name of the official who will serve as a contact person for
					 Commission staff.
(3) A schedule indicating when permits outside the
					 jurisdiction of the commission will be obtained and the steps the applicant has
					 taken or plans to take to obtain such permits.
(4) Compliance with visual standards
(A) Explain the project's conformance with the city/county
					 General Plan, and city municipal code or county government code (e.g., zoning)
					 governing scenic quality.
(B) If any aspect of the facility is not in conformance
					 with subdivision (g)(4)(A), provide the following:
(i) Show on a map the pinpoint location of the key
					 observation point(s) (KOP) for the project. A KOP is a fixed position in a
					 publicly accessible location where a public view of the project is analyzed
					 and/or evaluated in the landscape. Objects of aesthetic significance are the
					 primary focus in the KOP selection. You may look to local government planning
					 thresholds for guidance when defining the visual standard (e.g., city/county
					 General Plan, zoning);
(ii) If an object of aesthetic significance is not in the
					 vicinity of the project, a KOP is to be selected based on importance to
					 stakeholders, visibility, direct public selection, worst-case scenario, or
					 other reason. Explain the reason the KOP was chosen. At a minimum, two KOPs are
					 to be selected; and
(iii) Provide a color photograph(s) showing an actual line
					 of sight at eye level during daytime and clear weather from the KOP to the
					 project site prior to any alteration (existing condition). The photographer at
					 the KOP is to use a standard lens. For each photograph, provide the following
					 information: camera type, lens focal length, viewing angle, date and time the
					 photograph was taken, and the distance from the KOP to the project site.
(C) Show and describe the project in the landscape.
(i) Provide dimensioned elevation(s) of project buildings,
					 structures, and major equipment; and a table listing their dimensions (height,
					 length, width, diameter);
(ii) Provide manufacturer brochure or cut sheets that
					 include unit description, specifications, and renderings for major
					 equipment;
(iii) Provide a table and description of the exterior
					 surface treatments and finishes for the buildings, structures, major equipment
					 (e.g., colors, flat and/or textured finishes), and structural materials;
(iv) Describe project specific architectural treatment or
					 design technique mitigation unique to the project's siting at the location
					 (e.g., camouflage, disguise, screen), if any;
(v) Provide a project specific conceptual landscape design
					 plan that conforms with the city municipal code or county government code;
					 and
(vi) Provide a project specific conceptual outdoor lighting
					 control and management plan (lighting plan) and explain the control of
					 reflectance from exterior surfaces offsite that conform with the city municipal
					 code or county government code.
(D) If the project is to use a cooling tower emitting a
					 publicly visible water vapor plume (visible plume) in the atmosphere, provide
					 the following information:
(i) The cooling tower's number of fan cells, the fan cell
					 stack height and diameter, the exhaust mass flow rate, heat rejection rate, and
					 exhaust temperature;
(ii) A description of the fogging curves specific to the
					 cooling tower's exhaust discharge for at least three ambient air temperature
					 conditions (a low, average, and high temperature condition); and
(iii) An explanation if the project's forecasted visible
					 plume emitted in the atmosphere by the cooling tower would eliminate or
					 obstruct an existing public view of a designated or recognized scenic vista, or
					 scenic resource, and the existing visual character or quality of public views
					 of the site and its surroundings.
1. New
					 Appendix SRR filed 10-24-2022 as an emergency; operative 10-24-2022 (Register
					 2022, No. 43). Pursuant to Public Resources Code section
					 25793(e),
					 this action is a deemed emergency and shall remain in effect for three years or
					 until replaced by nonemergency regulations, whichever is sooner. A Certificate
					 of Compliance must be transmitted to OAL by 10-24-2025 or emergency language
					 will be repealed by operation of law on the following day.
Note: Authority cited: Sections
						25213,
						25216.5(a),
						25218(e)
						and
						25793(e),
						Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections
						21080.5
						and
						25794.2,
						Public Resources Code.