Transmission projects
Truescape continues to set the industry standard for the communication of proposed transmission line and substation projects.
Explaining transmission proposals to any audience is a difficult and time-consuming process. Truescape visualizations accelerate decision-making by simplifying the way proposals are communicated. We remove the necessity to interpret and visualize complex datasets by presenting the material in a simple, visual way that can be easily understood by any non-technical audience.
Our survey-accurate photo and video 3D simulations remove doubt and conjecture - enabling all stakeholders to properly understand the proposal from the start. Constructive discussions start sooner and consensus is faster. The result is a smoother passage through siting, consultation and permitting, and faster approvals.
- To assist with site acquisition and route selection
- To ensure that the entire project team understands the siting of substations and transmission lines in the context of the existing environment
- To inform and engage with external stakeholders during public outreach
- As a trusted platform for discussions with local and federal regulators
- To provide expert testimony at permitting hearings
- To explain the construction timelines and effects to local communities
Siting
At the very start of a transmission project, Truescape visualizations clarify route selection and land acquisition. A Truescape 3D video flyover is a convenient way for project teams to understand alternative routes, and to discuss and modify the transmission proposal.
Alternate substation or line designs can be accurately simulated and viewed from a variety of locations. Our 3D flyovers and ZVI images (Zone of Visual Influence) focus on areas of potential concern.
A transmission proposal may involve hundreds of land owners, and many different land uses. Truescape photo and video 3D simulations are the ideal way to demonstrate the whole proposal to internal project teams.
- Where is the transmission corridor in the context of the surrounding district?
- How many landowners will be affected by transmission towers and ROW corridors?
- Are there areas of special environmental interest or vulnerability which need to be avoided in planning the corridor layout?
- What are the important issues for landowners and other affected parties, and how might public outreach be organised?
We can deliver accurate project simulations very quickly. Please contact us to discuss our data requirements.
Public outreach
Public awareness and concern for the environment and for the visual
landscape is increasing. Truescape images are very powerful tools that
enable the public to understand a proposed project; they enable the
developer to create a trusting relationship with all stakeholders during
this critical phase.
A non-emotive, factual representation of the transmission project is the first step to informing others about the proposal. The sooner that stakeholders can see what is proposed, the easier it is to resolve misunderstandings.
In a recent example, residents wanted transmission lines under-grounded, at ten times the cost of above-ground lines. Truescape’s factual, survey-accurate simulations reassured stakeholders that there was very little difference in visual impact between the existing alignment and the proposed new (above-ground) alignment.
Our standard photo simulation offering is the TrueView™ human-field-of-view image. It is the most accurate on the market as it represents proposals in the way we actually see them, rather than how a camera lens sees.
TrueViewTM images are used to show stakeholders what the transmission corridor will look like from key viewpoints. Many TrueViewTM images are used on client web sites, or as the main focus at public outreach meetings. These images can be re-used during other phases of the project, delivering an excellent return on investment.
We can also combine various visualization techniques into a standalone communication video. These professional public outreach productions, with voice-over, deliver key information very effectively. The video may include animated maps combined with other techniques, such as time lapse, that address specific issues.
Truescape can work with you to provide suitable materials for public outreach. All images are of ‘testimony’ quality, should they be needed at subsequent legal hearings.
Regulatory review
For politicians and others who may not understand the scope of a transmission
proposal or upgrade, a video presentation is a professional and sophisticated
way of presenting the proposal; it enables key external stakeholders to immediately
understand the true impact and benefits of the project.
Dropping transmission towers into their correct location can demonstrate the screening characteristics of existing vegetation, and can allay fears about the extent of corridor required.
If there are concerns that static images convey just one set of conditions, Truescape time lapse simulations provide compelling evidence under a variety of different light and climatic conditions.
This level of detail reassures interested parties that there is a responsible and transparent approach to communicating the environmental effects of the transmission proposal. Ask us how we can help you to communicate the true impact of other effects of interest to stakeholders in your project.
Permitting
Truescape visualizations are produced to survey accuracy. Our production process has been tested many times in courts of law and planning hearings, where Truescape expert witnesses have provided testimony in support of the accuracy of our images and animations. This service has evolved into one of the most respected and experienced in the visualization sector worldwide.
In recent times, our expert witnesses have also been called upon to communicate the methodology and accuracy of our simulations at key public meetings, as part of public outreach programs. Stakeholders leave with the clear understanding that the project simulations are a reliable and factual aid to decision-making.
Truescape simulations build trust in the project because they have been generated by an independent and professional consultant, rather than an affiliate of the developer.
Construction
Truescape visualizations are useful during the tendering and construction
process. Our simulations assist contractors to de-risk their tendering process,
enable financiers to understand the project, and assist with marketing to
prospective investors or customers.
Public outreach is an ongoing engagement, and the photo and video images which you have used at earlier stages of the project can now be used to provide additional marketing and PR collateral on your web site; and on signage, as construction begins.
Our photo and video 3D simulations can be used to show communities how the transmission project will look at each stage of the construction timeline. Some of our clients also use visualizations to illustrate their different construction methodologies.