Title/Name/Summary
Albertsons/Jewel Osco - 9350 159th Street - Rooftop Solar Panel Installation
History
QUICKFACTS
Project
Albertsons/Jewel Osco - 9350 159th Street - Rooftop Solar Panel Installation
Legistar ID: 2025-0568
Project ID: PPA-25-0013
Petitioner
Cathy Ikeuchi, Energy Procurement & Strategic Sourcing for Albertsons
John Tomaselli, Project Manager for Dynamic Energy
Purpose
The petitioner is proposing to install a 645.28kW DC fixed-mount photovoltaic solar array with a total of 1,184 modules on the roof of the existing building at 9350 159th Street.
Requested Actions: Appearance Review
Project Attributes
Address: 9350 159th Street
P.I.N.(s): 27-15-301-033-0000
Comprehensive Plan Planning District: 159th and Harlem
Comprehensive Land Designation: Community Commercial
Existing Zoning: BIZ, General Business District
Existing Land Use: Commercial Retail
Proposed Land Use: Commercial Retail
Surrounding Land Use:
North: BIZ, General Business District,Multi-Tenant Commercial Center (Sunrize Plaza)
R-3, Residential District, Single-Family Attached (Village Square of Orland)
South: BIZ, General Business District, Multi-Tenant Commercial Center
BIZ, General Business District, Motor Vehicle Services (Shell)
East: R-3, Residential District, Single-Family Attached (Village Square of Orland)
West: COR, Mixed Use District, Vacant Land
BIZ, General Business District, Multi-Tenant Commercial Center
DETAILED PLANNING DISCUSSION
The petitioner proposes to install a 645.28kW DC fixed-mount photovoltaic solar array with a total of 1,184 modules on the roof of the existing building at 9350 159th Street.
Per Section 6-314.C.2.a.4. of the Land Development Code (LDC), solar energy systems on flat roofs must be completely screened from view from public right-of-ways, and neighboring properties in accordance with Section 6-308.J (Screening). Solar energy systems may be angled to achieve maximum sun exposure but shall not exceed 8’ in overall height or extend above the building parapet, whichever results in less height. In no instance shall any part of the system extend beyond the edge of the roof or the highest point of the parapet or screening wall. Additionally, all associated cables and wiring must be underground, routed through the building or contained within conduit which complements the colors and materials of the principal structure.
The submitted plans propose panels with a maximum height of 1’. The existing parapet wall on the building is 1’-6” tall, which should provide enough screening for the proposed solar panels. The submitted plans depict the panels placed throughout the entire roof, clustered into ten arrays. There is a consistent 6’ setback from all roof edges depicted on the plans, as required by the fire code. There is a 4’ wide pathway in between the arrays of solar panels as well to allow for easy access for repair and general maintenance.
The Petitioner also proposes support equipment to wall-mounted on the exterior north facing wall, which is the rear (north) façade of the property. The proposed equipment includes a revenue meter enclosure, a solar load center, a transformer, and an AC disconnect switch. The connections between the utilities are enclosed by conduit.
Overall, the project conforms to the Village’s comprehensive Plan, Land Development Codes and policies for this area.
Recommended Action/Motion
The Appearance Review for the Albertsons / Jewel Osco Rooftop Solar Panel Installation, case number 2025-0568, received July 9, 2025, was administratively approved on August 1, 2025, subject to the following conditions:
1. Obtain building permits prior to starting work.
2. All roof-mounted mechanical equipment shall be fully screened from view and shall meet the requirements listed in Section 6-314 of the Land Development Code.
3. Meet all Land Development Code and Building Code requirements.