Checklist: 8 factors to evaluate when deciding the location of renewable energy projects

Choosing the right location for a renewable energy project can be a complex puzzle. Environmental risks, construction logistics, permitting hurdles, and long-term performance—all of it hinges on how well the site fits your project goals.

That’s why we’ve created this easy-to-use checklist with 8 key factors to help you evaluate potential sites with confidence.

What will you find in this checklist?

The site you choose impacts every aspect of your project—costs, permits, timelines, maintenance, and long-term ROI.

With this checklist, you’ll have a clear structure to evaluate and compare sites objectively, saving time, reducing risk, and making smarter investment decisions.

Here are the key aspects covered in the checklist:

Topographic considerations

Evaluate slopes, elevation, and soil type to plan layout efficiently and avoid costly earthworks or structural issues.

Environmental regulations

Identify legal constraints, permit timelines, and mandatory environmental studies to prevent delays and ensure compliance from day one.

Proximity to electrical infrastructure and grid capacity

Check the distance to transmission lines and grid saturation levels to assess interconnection feasibility and avoid excessive connection costs.

Vegetation, water resources and land use analysis

Understand how existing vegetation, flood zones, or nearby water sources could impact construction, maintenance, and system performance.

Logistical and access issues

Review access roads, terrain conditions, and equipment transport routes to reduce construction risks and improve on-site efficiency.

Surrounding renewable projects and potential synergies

Identify neighboring facilities that might cause interference—or provide opportunities to share infrastructure and optimize costs.

Each section includes real-world criteria, technical tips, and red flags to help you avoid costly mistakes.

From unstable slopes to shadow-casting vegetation or outdated permits, this checklist helps you catch early-stage issues before they escalate.

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Why Imageryst Technology Optimizes the ROI of Energy Projects

360° Platform

From site selection to construction monitoring and asset maintenance.

High-precision satellite data

Updated imagery that optimizes decision-making.

Remote monitoring

Detect delays, infrastructure issues, and risk areas without the need for constant site visits.

Environmental compliance

Avoid penalties and streamline audits with automated reports on environmental impact and deforestation.

Seamless integration

Compatible with GIS systems and easy to use without the need for technical specialists.

Who is this checklist for?

This resource is designed for professionals involved in planning, developing, or executing renewable energy projects—particularly those working with solar and wind technologies.

Whether you’re assessing new locations or comparing alternatives, this checklist will help you make smarter, faster decisions based on reliable criteria.

It’s especially useful for:

Renewable energy developers looking to identify optimal sites and avoid early-stage pitfalls.
Independent Power Producers (IPPs) aiming to ensure the financial and technical viability of their projects.
EPC contractors who need to plan construction with terrain, logistics, and permitting in mind.
Site assessment and GIS teams in charge of collecting and validating technical data on potential locations.
Project managers and technical advisors who need a practical framework to evaluate, prioritize, and defend location choices to stakeholders.

Download the checklist!