EIR 01-15; Windhub Solar Project by Windhub Solar A, LLC and Windhub Solar B, LLC

The Windhub Solar Project, managed by Windhub Solar A, LLC and Windhub Solar B, LLC, involves the construction and operation of a 20-megawatt photovoltaic solar energy-generating facility on approximately 75.59 acres of California State Lands Commission property in eastern Kern County, near Mojave. The scope of work encompasses site preparation, road construction, the installation of an electrical collection system and solar array infrastructure, the construction of a project substation within the SEPV Mojave West area, perimeter fencing, and ongoing operations and maintenance. A critical component of the project is compliance with the California Endangered Species Act and the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act. Under Amendment No. 1, the project is authorized for the incidental take of 20,083 western Joshua trees, which includes the removal of 14,489 trees and encroachment upon 5,594 trees, while 2,249 trees must be fully avoided. Additionally, the project has received a Notice of Determination from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife regarding impacts to western burrowing owl habitats. The project is overseen by the CDFW Central Region and the Kern County Natural Resources Department.