Wind ProjectsLocal Zoning Approval

Presented by Robert Burgdorf

Nixon Peabody LLP

Typical Siting Issues• Aesthetics

• Avian Collision

• Ice Shedding

• Noise

• Shadow Flicker

• Aviation Safety

• Telecom Interference

• Property Values

Case Study

• Background

• Moratorium

• Opposition

• Federal Court

• New Online Ordinance

• Substation

http://www.batr.net/cohoctonwindwatch/

Aesthetics

How big is a 2-MW wind turbine?

This picture shows one compared to a Boeing 747 jumbo jet.

http://www.batr.net/cohoctonwindwatch/

Case Study

• Background

• Moratorium

• Opposition

• Federal Court

• New Online Ordinance

• Substation

Public Utility• Essential Service

• Location sensitive (“need” to be there)– Power Lines– Water Tank– Substation– Cell Tower– Turbine

• Town can reasonably regulate, but not prohibit