Salt River Project (SRP) was adding 825 MW of gas-fueled generation to the current Santan Power Plant site located in Gilbert, Arizona. EPG was retained to assist early in the planning process and prepare the application for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility (CEC) issued by the State Siting Committee and Corporation Commission.

The planning process for the Santan Generating Station project focused on selecting the optimum on-site location for the proposed 825 MW power plant facilities, as well as enhancements for the existing plant site and adjacent areas. Studies included the evaluation of land use, recreation, visual, and biological resources. In addition, EPG developed and facilitated a community working group composed of representatives from the town of Gilbert, school districts, economic development organizations, businesses, and local residents. In response to issues raised by the community working group and other residents, a variety of mitigation alternatives and design concepts were developed for enhancing the area adjacent to the plant site. EPG also prepared visual simulations illustrating views of the facility, as well as various architectural treatments.

EPG provided expert testimony before the State Siting Committee regarding the environmental studies we conducted, proposed mitigation and enhancement treatments, and the community working group process. Based on the request of the committee, we also developed a follow-up process for working with the local community to further develop mitigation concepts involving local residents, the town, and SRP.