LADWP just released an EIR to install 200MW of solar PV panels 10 miles north of Lone Pine on 1,200 acres. The project is called Southern Owens Valley Solar Ranch and of course there is local opposition. I think it's a great start and there's room for a lot more of these installations.
Battle for Solar Power in Owens Valley The Draft EIR is
here. Am quite sure this is the project DWP wants to build across from Manzanar.
I've hiked extensively in that area of the Sierra and Inyos, and what has always struck me is the number of valleys and areas quite out of sight of US395 and public view. Aside from being a few miles away from major transmission lines, they seem like ideal sites for such projects. This isn't just my opinion, but also those of my hiking companions, often retired scientists & engineers from China Lakes NWS.
Sometimes I wonder if DWP's proposals are designed to inflame public opinion, and thereby divert attention away from their pumping and water projects!
