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4 Environmental Analysis 4.1 Aesthetics 4.1.1.3 Key Observation Points Based on the ZVI and the identification of publicly accessible routes and viewpoints, potential KOPs were identified and further assessed during the field assessment. KOPs were identified based on locations from which the Project infrastructure would potentially be visible and noticeable to the casual observer. The "casual observer" is considered an observer who is not actively looking or searching for the Project, but who is engaged in activities at locations with potential views of the Project,such as hiking or driving along a scenic road. If the Project infrastructure is not noticeable to the casual observer,visual impacts can be considered minor to negligible. Six KOPs were selected as representative vantage points in the landscape that offer motorists traveling on area roadways and local residents views of the proposed Project site (Figure 4.1-2). These KOPs provide views from the closest roadways to the Project site from publicly accessible areas. Factors considered in the selection of KOPs included locations with sensitive viewers (e.g., local residences and motorists on nearby roadways)and potential for the Project site to be visible (e.g., distance and view angle). The KOPs were selected to capture representative vantages from 1-580, local roadways, and residences. Digital photographs were taken from the selected KOP locations to support the discussion on existing visual setting and the analysis of potential visual impacts associated with the proposed Project site (Figures 4.1-3 through 4.1-8). Photographs of existing conditions were taken on May 24, 2022, using a digital single-lens reflex Canon 5D Mark III camera. 4.1.1.4 Visual Simulations Three-dimensional (3D) visual simulations from representative KOP photographs were rendered to approximate the visual conditions caused by Project implementation. Using the photographs acquired at each KOP, a 3D physical massing model was created that incorporated the photovoltaic (PV) scale model, placed in array configurations as shown in Figure 2-2. The model was then georeferenced and placed on global positioning system (GPS)-controlled, site-specific photographs to create simulations that demonstrate visual changes from the Project. Figures 4.1-3 through 4.1-8 present simulated views of Project features. 4.1.1.5 Viewer Types and Characteristics The term "sensitive viewers" refers to specific user groups associated with various land uses that have a sensitivity to landscape change and, therefore, could be adversely affected by the construction and operation of a project. In this regard, potentially sensitive viewing locations are typically associated with key travel routes, recreation areas, and residential areas. Viewpoints represent critical or typical viewpoints within or along an identified viewing location and are used to assess visual impacts of a proposed project. The sensitivity of viewers at each viewpoint is based on the type of use, expected concern for aesthetics, and special status or designation. Identifying groups of individuals who would likely be sensitive to visual changes is an important part of the visual assessment process and helps to define specific locations from which to assess changes to the visual character of the landscape. An inventory of sensitive viewers considers 1) the most critical viewpoints (i.e., views from communities, residential areas, or recreational areas); 2)views from scenic areas specifically identified in local planning documents; and 3)views that represent the general area or landscape setting. Griffith Energy Storage Project 4.1-7 Tetra Tech/SCH 2022120675 Draft Environmental Impact Report August 2023