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Small-Scale Wind Turbines: Policy Perspectives and Recommendations For The Municipality of The County of Kings
Small-Scale Wind Turbines: Policy Perspectives and Recommendations For The Municipality of The County of Kings
kite
Dalhousie University School of Planning
Marta Downarowicz, Rachel Harrison, Robert Kostiuk, Jeff Wilson
March 19, 2006
Table of Contents
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Wind Density and Speed by Height .................................................................. 17
Table 2: Other Small-Scale Wind Turbine Policies and their Land Use Applications ..... 22
Table 3: Zoning Suitability for Small-Scale Wind Turbines ............................................. 32
Table 4: Small-Scale Wind Turbine Manufacturers......................................................... 57
Table 5: Small-Scale Wind Turbine Category ................................................................. 59
Table 6: Small-Scale Wind Turbines Produced/Distributed by Atlantic Orient Canada Inc.
and Second Source Power Company. ............................................................. 63
A definition of small-scale wind turbines evolved from the research and findings:
A small-scale wind turbine converts the wind’s kinetic energy into either electrical power
or mechanical energy. The turbine comprises the tower, rotor blades and nacelle. It shall
have a maximum rated output capacity of no greater than 100 kilowatts, a maximum total
height no higher than 170 feet, and a minimum rotor clearance no less than 15 feet from
grade. Power-generating small-scale wind turbines primarily provide power for on-site
usage; at minimum, 50 percent of generated power must be consumed on-site.
Two key land use considerations arise for small-scale wind turbines:
Where are small-scale wind turbines appropriate in the County?
How should small-scale wind turbines be sited on individual lots?
As an accessory use, the report finds that small-scale wind turbines provide benefit to
farms, industries, forestry, and homes in identified residential areas, especially when
confronted with rising rates for traditional sources of power. Zones with particular growth
goals, heritage characteristics, and environmental sensitivities are identified as
inappropriate for turbines. Additionally, small-scale wind turbines are not suitable for
placement on public land. Instead, turbines are permitted on private land where it is the
landowner’s responsibility to be accountable for safety, liability and maintenance issues.
The report recommends small-scale wind turbine sites in clearly suitable zones. Once
the County gains experience with this new land use, Council may revisit the bylaw to
reconsider adding new zones.
Blade Length: The length of the turbine blade measured from the blade
tip to the centre of the rotor.
Blade Diameter: The length of the turbine blade diameter measuring the
longest distance from the tip of one blade to the tip of the
opposite blade.
Hub Height: The height of the centre of the wind turbine rotor above the
ground.
Kilowatt Hour (kWh): A measure of energy equal to the use of one kilowatt in
one hour.
Large-Scale Wind Turbine: Turbines with rated output capacities of greater than 300
kW.1 Large-scale wind turbines contribute electricity to the
grid for resale and profit.
Mean Wind Speed: The statistical mean of the instantaneous value of the wind
speed average over a given time period which can vary
from a few seconds to many years.
Rated Wind Speed: The specific wind speed at which a wind turbine’s rated
output capacity is achieved.
Rotor Speed: The revolutions per minute of the wind turbine rotor.
Solid Mono-tower: A solid tower that does not use external supports such as
guy wires.
Small-Scale Wind Turbine: A small-scale wind turbine converts the wind’s kinetic
energy into either electrical power or mechanical energy.
The turbine comprises the tower, rotor blades and nacelle.
It has a maximum rated output capacity of no greater than
100 kilowatts, a maximum total height no higher than 170
feet, and a minimum rotor clearance no less than 15 feet
from grade. Power-generating small-scale wind turbines
primarily provide power for on-site usage; at minimum, 50
percent of generated power must be consumed on-site.
Total Height: The height of a wind turbine measured from the base of
the tower to the tip of a blade at its highest point.
Wind Electric Water A 1 to 10 kW wind turbines used for pumping water. Wind
Pumping System: electric pumping systems can be placed anywhere on a
site where the wind resource is best.
Wind Energy: Energy obtained from a wind turbine that is powered by the
wind.
Wind Power Class: A method for classifying different categories of wind power
(measured in both wind density and speed). There are
seven classifications ranging from Class 1(very light winds)
to Class 7 (very strong winds). Class 2 or 3 winds are
usually suitable for small-scale wind energy production.
Wind Power Density: An indication of how much energy is available on a site for
conversion by a wind turbine (measured in Watts per
square meter).
PART I: INTRODUCTION
The Canadian Wind Energy Atlas identifies the Municipality of the County of Kings, Nova
Scotia (hereafter referred to as the County) as having potential for wind energy
production (Figure 1). Small-scale wind turbines present an opportunity for residents and
the County’s main industries (manufacturing and farming).3 The prospect of saving
money on power (and the potential for pumping water in agricultural applications),
motivates individuals and industry to pursue small-scale wind turbines. To optimise this
potential while minimising conflict with existing uses, the County is pursuing
amendments to its Municipal Planning Strategy (MPS) and Land Use Bylaws (LUBs) to
permit small-scale wind turbines.
Wind energy is the fastest growing source of electricity in the world – becoming cheaper
to produce as its popularity grows. In Nova Scotia energy rates are on the rise with Nova
Scotia Power attaining permission for another increase in power rates. The County
primarily relies on burning fossil fuels (coal and oil) for power generation; these energy
sources are environmentally unsustainable. Maximising the potential of its wind
resources for energy generation proactively responds to meeting the green energy
targets of Nova Scotia Power and the Kyoto Protocol, reducing the County’s contribution
to global climate change.
The County’s most favourable area is the valley floor between the North and South
Mountains, and along the Minas Basin. Currently, no detailed wind analysis data exists
for the County, as a result recommended policy will not be site specific.
Prior to January 2006, the County treated small-scale turbines as an accessory use,
restricting heights to levels that prevent them from clearing ground turbulence and
accessing adequate wind speeds for energy production.
In January 2006, the County adopted an interim bylaw to permit small-scale wind
turbines subject to height restriction and lot size (Appendix 1), with the intent of
introducing permanent amendments. This report provides further examination into small-
scale wind turbines and recommends amendments to the MPS and LUBs for their siting.
1.0 APPROACH
Part III reviews the Municipal Planning Strategy, suggesting requisite changes to
permit small-scale wind turbines.
Continuing on from Parts III and IV, Part V reviews the County’s application
process and recommends a specific process for dealing with small-scale wind
turbine applications.
Part VI proposes draft policy for small-scale wind turbines in the County.
Part VII recommends follow-up work to monitor the policy after implementation.
The County is home to 58,866 residents.4 Its twelve Growth Centres (Figure 2) have
experienced a population growth of more than 14 percent since 1991;5 however, more
than 80 percent of the County’s population still resides in rural areas.
The Municipal Planning Strategy (MPS) provides policy guidance for the County while
Land Use Bylaws (LUB) implement the land use regulations. Separate MPSs and LUBs
govern the towns of Wolfville, Berwick and Kentville. Special consideration is given to
preserve the character of the County by regulating land uses in zones and districts
(Figure 3).
Tower height is measured from the base of the wind turbine tower to the
bottom of the nacelle. Tower height dramatically influences wind turbine
output because height allows rotors to clear turbulence. Higher towers
facilitate access to increased wind power (Figure 5); maximising tower
height provides higher returns on investment. For instance, a 10 kW wind
turbine with a 90-foot tower costs 10 percent more in capital costs, but
can result in 30 percent more power produced than the same turbine on a
54-foot tower.9
Figure 5: Wind Speed and Wind Power Increase
with Tower Height
Turbines operate most efficiently when clear of structures, trees and land forms which
potentially cause wind turbulence. Elevation, topography, surface roughness, and
location, affect the quality and quantity of wind. Both the American Wind Energy
Association (AWEA) and the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) (profiles in
Appendix 4) recommend small-scale turbines be elevated at least 25 to 30 feet above
any obstacle within a 250 to 500-foot radius of the tower (Figure 6). In most areas, the
highest point on the site, or the area with the least obstruction, provides the premier
location for the turbine.
Stakeholders provide insight and different perspectives for siting small-scale wind
turbines. Stakeholders represented a wide variety of interests, from potential users and
turbine manufacturers to regulators.
Stakeholders
• Nova Scotia Power Incorporated;
• Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Fisheries;
• Second Source Power Company (local small-scale wind turbine distributor);
• Atlantic Orient Canada Inc. (local small-scale wind turbine manufacturer);
• The Kings Federation of Agriculture; and,
• Nova Scotia Department of Energy.
2.4.1 Opportunities
Stakeholders identified that small-scale wind turbines:
• Provide potential long-term cost savings to consumers;
• Present an option for an independent, sustainable energy source;
• Provide a supplementary power source during power failures (in off-
grid applications or where batteries store excess energy);
• Offer unique agricultural advantages including business opportunities
for entrepreneurial farmers and a practical means to pump water; and,
• Add potential value to the resale of properties.
2.4.2 Challenges
Stakeholders suggested that small-scale wind turbines:
• Require high initial installation costs and long cost recovery periods
(may not be feasible for transient residents);
• Lack financial incentives to encourage residential or farm use;
• Could increase farmers’ taxable land base;
• Are perceived to be noisy and aesthetically unattractive;
• Demand additional time and financial investment in maintenance;
• Consume valuable agricultural land; and,
• Can become an obstacle when ploughing.
Key concerns arise from the introduction of small-scale wind turbines. Legacy problems
associated with older wind systems, such as electromagnetic interference, are
addressed by the industry as it develops new generations of turbines. While many of the
issues have been resolved, quite often there remains a perception that these problems
still exist. The following is a summary of the major concerns identified from the literature
and stakeholder meetings.
2.5.1 Acoustics
Most small-scale wind turbines produce between 40 and 60 decibels of
noise (Figure 8). Within several hundred feet of the turbine, turbine noise
may not be distinguishable from general background noise (such as local
traffic or the wind blowing through trees). Actual noise levels depend on
the type of turbine and site terrain. CanWEA recommends that small-
scale wind turbines be placed at least 600 feet (200 meters) away from
occupied dwellings on neighbouring properties to avoid noise issues.13
2.5.2 Aesthetics
The aesthetic impacts of small-scale wind turbines are subject to
perception. Neighbours may be concerned about turbines obstructing
their views, while tourists may enjoy the nostalgic aspect of turbines on
farms. Land use bylaws mitigate and minimise aesthetic concerns.
2.5.5 Decommissioning
Neglecting to maintain turbines or complete abandonment can pose a
safety hazard to the public and leave a blight on the landscape. Imposing
policy regulations ensures that wind turbines are decommissioned in a
timely manor.
2.5.7 Icing
Accumulation of ice on rotor blades makes the blades less aerodynamic
so they turn more slowly. When melting occurs, ice typically drops to the
base of the turbine tower rather than being thrown.16 Precautions should
be taken to ensure that the public is not at risk from falling ice.
This study reviewed Canadian and American policies, model policies, and the
recommendations of national wind energy associations addressing small-scale wind
turbine applications. Table 2 displays specific small-scale wind turbine applications
related to each reviewed document.
Table 2: Other Small-Scale Wind Turbine Policies and their Land Use Applications
Policies, Models, Associations Application
Canada
Pincher Creek, AB Primarily rural setting
Windsor, ON policy Accessory use in all zoning district subject to
conditions
Bruce Co., ON Accessory use, primarily rural
Cape Breton Regional All zones, but primarily rural
Municipality, NS
Municipality of the County of All rural zones
Kings
United States
Huron Co., MI Primarily agricultural
Benton Co., WA Agricultural Protection Zone only
Kittitas Co., WA All zoning districts
California State Residential, farm, and small commercial uses
Monterey Co., CA Specified zones only
New York State: Model N/A
Ordinance
Washington State: House Bill All zones
1021
Clean Energy Resource Team Permitted in Agricultural and Industrial Zones;
(Minnesota) conditionally permitted in rural (large lot)
residential, highway commercial, urban
expansion, shoreland, wild and scenic river; not
permitted in rural town site or general business
areas
National Associations
American Wind Energy Permitted in all zoning classifications
Association
Canadian Wind Association of Grid-connected or off-grid
Canada
The future development of small-scale wind turbines is in the best interest of the County
for a number of reasons. Wind energy is a clean and abundant continuous supply
renewable resource, unlike other renewable resources such as wood, which require
replacement involving extra costs and time. Considering the County’s potential for wind
energy production, and the current reliance on fossils fuels for power generation by
NSPI, the development of a small-scale wind turbine policy helps the County create a
proactive response to the Kyoto Protocol’s emission reduction targets.
The MPS establishes the strategic land use goals of the County. The introduction of a
new use, such as small-scale wind turbines, necessitates a review of these goals to
determine a context for the new use.
Although the development of small-scale wind turbines can reduce the total amount
agricultural land, their use complements the agricultural industry, potentially increasing
its economic viability. The small footprint of turbines minimises the impact on prime
agricultural soils while increasing the economic viability of the agricultural industry,
furthering the goals of the MPS.
To enable the County to develop Land Use Bylaws for small-scale wind turbines, specific
policy must be created in the MPS. The following recommended policy allows for the
future development of small-scale wind turbines to be defined in greater detail in the
County’s Land Use Bylaws.
Small-scale wind turbines allow residents to develop and consume on-site energy
in an environmentally sustainable fashion. Within Nova Scotia, the County has
excellent wind power producing capability. Small-scale wind turbines vary in size,
use and rated output capacity, offering the opportunity for on-site energy
production and potential energy cost savings. Turbines are compatible with a
number of land uses in different zones. Given the potential of small-scale wind
turbines in the County, a comprehensive set of guidelines is required.
5.4.1.1 To maintain consistency with and support the urban and rural
goals of the Strategy.
5.4.2.1 Council shall include provisions in the Land Use Bylaw to regulate
the use of small-scale wind turbines. Small-scale wind turbine
regulations, including limits on the number, type, size, rated output
capacity and location, are intended to ensure safety and mitigate
conflict with neighbouring uses.
Policy drafted to permit small-scale wind turbines should be consistent with existing
policy and bylaws, reflecting current land use patterns in the County. The MPS and
LUBs are intended to ensure that the public’s safety is not compromised. Land use tools,
such as setbacks and height restrictions protect both private land owners and the public
from physical harm and nuisance. Owners can benefit from the economic and
environmental opportunities of small-scale wind turbines, satisfying their own energy
needs from a sustainable source and potentially saving money through reduced power
bills.
4.0.1 Potential Issue: Impacts related to the size of the small-scale wind
turbine
The size of the small-scale wind turbine includes height of the turbine tower,
rotor blade diameter, and rated output capacity. Longer rotor blades produce
less sound than small blades, but generally require a higher tower. Although
higher turbine towers increase the potential to optimise wind, visual impacts
are also affected.
A small-scale wind turbine converts the wind’s kinetic energy into either
electrical power or mechanical energy. The turbine comprises the tower, rotor
blades and nacelle. It shall have a maximum rated output capacity of no
greater than 100 kilowatts, a maximum total height no higher than 170 feet,
and a minimum rotor clearance no less than 15 feet from grade. Power-
generating small-scale wind turbines primarily provide power for on-site
usage; at minimum, 50 percent of generated power must be consumed on-
site.
Agricultural Commercial C8 No
Rural Commercial C9 No
Hamlet Commercial C10 No
Agricultural Industrial M3 Yes add to13.1.2
Institutional I1 No
Community Facilities CF No
Parkland P1 No
Recreational Open Space P2 No
Environmental Open Space O1 No
Water Supply O2 Yes Permitted use with
conditions. Add the
following 18.4.3 “Uses
Subject to Conditions”
Airport T1 No
i) Setbacks
Safety evolves as a major issue when permitting small-scale turbines.
Adequate setbacks address safety issues by requiring minimum
acceptable distances between the turbine (as the potential source of
conflict) and neighbouring uses. While incidences are minimal,
setbacks protect dwellings and neighbouring lots from damage
caused by turbine failure including tower collapse and falling ice.
Appropriate setbacks ensure maximum turbine performance by
reducing the potential for wind turbulence caused by buildings.
Eight policies and model ordinances have setbacks ranging from the
total turbine height to 125 percent of the total height from lot lines,
rights-of-way, dwellings, and/or dwellings on adjacent properties.
Three ordinances contain minimum distances from dwellings on
neighbouring properties: Benton Co., WA requires 1,000 feet,
Rockingham Co., VA requires 150 per cent of total height, and
Pincher Creek demands four times total turbine height. There is no
conclusive argument for determining the appropriate distance from a
neighbouring occupied dwelling.
4.3.1 Decommissioning
Decommissioning regulations prevent abandoned or disused turbines from
becoming a blight on the landscape or a safety hazard. Four policies enact
removal enforcement powers after one year of disuse. Pincher Creek, AB
allows for two years of discontinued use. Following the issuance of a letter of
notification to owner, the local authority grants a period of 30, 45, 90 or 120
days to remove the turbine. The County’s policy regarding decommissioning
of signs requires removal within 60 days of discontinuance of activity (LUB
3.7.4).
4.3.1.1 Recommendation
The owner of a turbine deemed by the County to be abandoned
following a one year period of inactivity shall be given notice to
remove the turbine and all supporting structures within 60 days from
the date of notification.
4.3.2 Signage
Minimising the visual impact of wind turbines contributes to community
support. Policies restrict the colour and siting of turbines to best blend with
the natural surroundings. Two policies specifically prohibit advertising.
4.3.2.1 Recommendations
In following current policy regarding signs (LUB 3.7.5.13), no sign,
advertisement or object not required for the functioning or safety of
the turbine shall be painted on or attached to a turbine.
Colours are subjective and may either enhance or detract from the
character of the surroundings depending on personal perspective.
Colour should not be regulated.
Requiring specific information prior to the development of a small-scale wind turbine can:
mitigate future issues (namely aesthetic and acoustic), eliminate inconsistencies with
other regulations and help the municipality ensure that the type of wind turbine falls
within the municipality’s definition of small-scale wind turbine.
The following process is a general guide for all zones, additional requirements for
specific zones are included in the Land Use Bylaws.
1.130.2 Decommissioning
The removal of a small-scale wind turbine within one year of inactivity.
All supporting structures shall be removed within 60 days of the date of
notification by the County.
d. The setback shall be, at minimum, equal to the turbine’s total height from
adjacent lot lines, dwellings, public parking lots and public right-of-ways.
i. The owner shall remove the small-scale wind turbine from the lot
following one year of inactivity. A new application shall be submitted and
approved before a new turbine is installed.
7.1 Revisit the policy in two years. The County may consider examining the potential
for permitting small-scale wind turbines in more zones, or limiting potential in
permitted zones, based on its experience. By evaluating the small-scale wind
turbine policy after two years of implementation, the County can also identify and
mitigate arising issues specific to the local context. For example, Council may
further review the potential for two turbines with separate uses (power-generating
and water pumping) in A1 zones as accessory to agricultural uses.
7.3 Conduct a wind analysis to examine the potential for wind energy production
in the County. The County may benefit from recognising which areas in the
municipality are more favourable for wind energy production at the small-scale
level. This information may be useful to support policy permitting or not permitting
small-scale wind turbines to further support the general goals of MPS 1.3.1.1 to
facilitate a broad economic base by establishing a data base upon which to
evaluate locations opportunities for industry within the County.
7.4 Gather local data on the implications of small-scale wind turbines on bird
mortalities. The County could benefit from doing its own data collection and
analysis of the impacts on bird mortality. The County contains significant bird
migration routes along its coast which should be protected. Knowing the local
impact on bird mortalities provides valuable information to the future siting of
turbines in the County.
7.5 Research insurance policies to address public safety and liability issues.
Ensuring appropriate insurance and liability measures would enable the future
siting of small-scale wind turbines on public lands.
7.7 Add sustainability goals to the Municipal Planning Strategy’s general goals.
Small-scale wind turbines fit into a larger goal of sustainability for the County.
Council may consider reviewing and revising the general goals of the MPS, in
particular 1.3.1.2, to include provisions for sustainable development in the County
encouraging and permitting renewable energy sources in addition to other specific
sustainability targets.
Citizens and stakeholders in the County recognise the future potential of small-scale
wind turbines. Pairing the benefits of small-scale wind turbines with the goals of the
County’s MPS, the recommendations included in this report open the County to the
introduction of small-scale wind turbines.
American Wind Energy Association. (2003). “How Much Noise Do Small Wind Turbines
Make?” Retrieved March 6, 2006 from:
http://www.awea.org/smallwind/toolbox/TOOLS/fs_noise.asp
American Wind Energy Association. (2003). “Small Wind Systems and Public Safety.”
(2003). Retrieved March 6, 2006 from:
www.awea.org/smallwind/toolbox/TOOLS/fs_safety.asp
Atlantic Orient Canada Inc. (2005). “Company Profile.” Retrieved March 7, 2006 from:
http://www.atlanticorientcanada.ca/company.htm
Canadian Wind Energy Association. (2005). “About Us.” Retrieved March 7, 2006 from:
http://www.canwea.ca/en/AboutUs.html
Canadian Wind Energy Association. (2005). ”Benefits and Issues with Small Wind:
Issues to be Aware of.” Retrieved March 7, 2006 from:
www.smallwindenergy.ca/en/Overview/BenefitsIssues/Issues.html
Canadian Wind Energy Association. (2005). “Electrical Grid Connection and Net
Metering.” Retrieved January 23, 2006 from:
http://www.smallwindenergy.ca/en/SmallWindAndYou/ConnectingToTheGrid/NetMeterin
g.html
Canadian Wind Energy Association. (2005). “Small Wind Energy: Frequently Asked
Questions.” Retrieved March 7, 2006 from:
www.smallwindenergy.ca/en/FAQ.html#What%20about%20towers?
Canadian Wind Energy Association. (2005). “Small Wind Energy Systems.” Retrieved
March 7, 2006 from: www.smallwindenergy.ca/en/FAQ.html#What%20about%20towers?
Canadian Wind Energy Association. (2005). “Where to Put the Turbine: Location on
Your Property.” Retrieved March 6, 2006 from:
www.smallwindenergy.ca/en/SmallWindAndYou/YourTurbineSite/MoreLocation.html
Centre for Energy. (2003). “How is Wind Power Produced?” Retrieved January 16, 2006
from: http://www.centreforenergy.com/silos/wind/windOverview02.asp
Iron Man Wind Mill Co Ltd. (2005). Retrieved on March 1, 2006 from:
http://www.internationalwindmill.com/
Krec, Gerry. Technical Review Officer for Rural Utilities, Government of Alberta.
Personal Communication. March 13, 2006.
Municipality of the County of Kings. (1992 with amendments). “Bylaw #56 County of
Kings Municipal Planning Strategy.”
Municipality of the County of Kings. (amended to 2005). “Land Use Map.” Retrieved
March 7, 2006 from:
http://www.county.kings.ns.ca/comdev/lub/maps/CountyLUB_map.pdf
Municipality of the County of Kings. (2001). “Generalized Soil Capability Map for Kings
County.” January 17, 2006. Planning Department.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory. (2005). “Zoning for Distributed Wind Power –
Breaking Down Barriers.” Retrieved March 7, 2006 from:
www.renewwisconsin.org/wind/Toolbox-
Homeowners/Zoning%20for%20Distributed%20Wind-JGreen%20and%20MSagrillo.pdf
National Wind Technology Centre. (1993). “Wind Energy Potential in the United States.”
Retrieved March 1, 2006 from: http://www.nrel.gov/wind/wind_potential.html
Nova Scotia Power Incorporated. (2005). “Customer Energy Forum 2005.” Retrieved
March 7, 2006 from:
www.nspower.ca/CustomerEnergyForum/DOCS/2005EnergyForumBooklet.pdf
Nova Scotia Power Incorporated. (2005). “About Us.” Retrieved March 7, 2006 from:
http://www.nspower.ca/AboutUs/index.html
Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. (2005). “About Our Department.”
Retrieved March 1, 2006 from: http://www.gov.ns.ca/nsaf/department/
Second Source Power Company. (2005). “About Us.” Retrieved March 7, 2006 from:
http://www.secondsourcepower.ca/about.html
Pynn, Paul (P.Eng.). (2005). Atlantic Orient Canada Inc. Personal Communication.
February 1, 2006
STAKEHOLDERS
Atlantic Orient Canada Inc. (2005). Interview with Paul Pynn, P.Eng. on January 25,
2006. http://www.atlanticorientcanada.ca/
Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. (2005). Interview with Michael
Langman, Director on January 24, 2006. http://www.gov.ns.ca/nsaf/department/
Nova Scotia Power Incorporated. (2005). Interview with Robert Johnsonon, XXX
January 23, 2006. http://www.nspower.ca
Second Source Power Company. (2005) Interview with Hubert Legge, Sales Manager
on January 25, 2006. http://www.secondsourcepower.ca/
Canadian
Bruce County. (1997) “Bruce County Official Plan - Chapter 4.14.1 Small Scale
Generating Systems.”
Pincher Creek. (2002) “Municipal District of Pincher Creek no. 9 - Land Use By-law
1050-02.” Retrieved March 1, 2006 from: http://www.mdpinchercreek.ab.ca/.
Municipality of the County of Kings. (1992 with amendments). “County of Kings Land
Use Bylaw #75.”
Cape Breton Regional Municipality. (2004). “Municipal Planning Strategy of Cape Breton
Regional Municipality.”
American
Benton County. (2003). “Draft Zoning Ordinance - Chapter 11A.34 Agriculture Protection
Zone District (APZ).” Retrieved January 20, 2006 from
http://www.co.benton.wa.us/zoning_ord.htm.
California State. (2001) “Assembly Bill 1207 - Streamlining the Permitting of Small Wind
Turbines in California.” Retrieved January 20, 2006 from http://info.sen.ca.gov/pub/01-
02/bill/asm/ab_1201-1250/ab_1207_bill_20011007_chaptered.html.
Huron County. (2005). “Huron County Zoning Ordinances, Article X - Huron County
Wind Energy Facility Overlay Zoning Ordinance.”
Monterey County. (2004). “Monterey County Code - Chapter 21.64 Special Regulations.”
Retrieved January 20, 2006 from:
http://municipalcodes.lexisnexis.com/codes/montereyco/.
Rhodes-Weaver, Heather. (2006). “New York State Model Ordinance – Final Draft.”
Personal Communication January 27, 2006.
Representative Morris. (2005) “Washington State: House Bill 1021 - 59th Legislature.”
National Associations
AMENDMENTS TO BYLAW 75
1.21 Blade Clearance means the minimum distance from grade to the
bottom of the rotor’s arc.
1.120 Rotor’s Arc means the total path travels by the turbine’s blade.
1.122 School
Koenders Koenders 12 - 20
Windmills Inc.
(Canada)
Water Pumping
wind turbine
Profile
Nova Scotia Power (NSPI) is the primary provider of electricity to Nova Scotians.29 NSPI
promotes renewable energy options; they own and operate 396 megawatts or 18% of
the company's generating capacity in wind, hydro and tidal power generation.
Currently, NSPI offers a small-scale net metering program to consumers who choose to
develop small-scale wind turbines or other types of renewable energy. To qualify for the
program the consumer’s energy output must not exceed 100 kW.
Opportunities
From NSPI’s perspective, three main opportunities motivate customers to pursue wind
power:
• cost savings;
• options for energy production; and,
• supplementary power source during outages (only if the customer has power
storage).
Challenges
NSPI identifies several challenges consumers pursuing small-scale wind energy
generation which include:
• high installation costs and long cost recovery (approximately 10-15 years at
$0.10/kwh for their wind turbine investment);
• the possible depreciation of property values;
• the lack of small-scale wind turbine incentives; and,
• technical expertise versus financial ability to pay for maintenance.
Considerations
NSPI suggests the following considerations in developing a land use policy:
• mandate professional testing of wind resources on individual parcels in
application process;
• require regular maintenance of small-scale wind turbines; and,
• provide setback regulations addressing issues regarding public liability for ice
throw, falling turbines, noise and encroachment.
Profile
The Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Fisheries provides services and
programs to the agriculture and fishing sectors, the two biggest economies in the
province's coastal and rural regions.30 The department is interested in small-scale wind
turbines because they are one initiative that could help support and sustain the
agricultural industry.
Opportunities
From the perspective of the NS Agriculture and Fisheries, the opportunities of small-
scale wind turbines for farmers include the following:
• cost efficient energy production;
• contribution to the community’s overall energy needs; and,
• innovative business opportunities for entrepreneurial farmers.
Challenges
The major challenge facing farming communities is the competition for agricultural land
and the rising costs of farming. From NSDAF’s perspective, introducing wind turbines to
rural land:
• can create a conflicting land use - wind turbines are not an agricultural use;
• increases taxable land base because once land is cleared to site the turbine, the
land becomes taxable; and,
• requires high initial cost input.
Considerations
NSDAF suggests considering the following when siting small-scale wind turbines on
rural land:
• exclude high soil classifications (Classes 2 and 3) as suitable sites;
• reduce potential nuisances such as noise and aesthetics;
• recognise each farm’s unique size, use and arrangement (e.g. any farmers may
own disconnected parcels of farm land);
• write bylaws in terms of parcels not acreage (1 parcel = 20-40 acres);
• pay special attention to Country Residential (R6) zones;
• include a review process for the siting of wind turbines on individual sites;
• create set back/separation distances; and,
• maximise the potential of net-metering for farming.
Profiles
Second Source Power is a privately owned and operated company based in Windsor,
Nova Scotia. The company sells; installs, and services permanent and portable
generators and wind turbines.31 Last year, Second Source approached council asking
them to develop a policy to allow for small-scale wind turbines to be erected in the
County.
Atlantic Orient Canada Inc (AOCI), based in Dartmouth NS, is a member of CanWEA.
The company manufactures, markets, and installs 50 kW wind turbines called AOC
15/50.
Both manufacturers facilitate public meetings for communities prior to the approval of the
wind turbine on the property of the consumer. The public meeting focuses on providing
information about wind turbines and addressing concerns.
Opportunities
The two manufacturers identify opportunities associated with wind turbines for
consumers in Kings County:
• consumer independence in energy production;
• cost of fluctuating oil prices and uncertainties in future oil supply;
• desire for sustainable energy source; and,
• properties with a wind turbine which could potentially have a market advantage.
Challenges
The manufacturers identify several challenges presented by small-scale wind turbines:
• small-scale wind turbines can be noisy;
• aesthetics concerns may be voiced within the community; and,
• cost recovery may take a long time.
Considerations
The considerations to make when locating small-scale wind turbines include the
following points:
• allow for the unique qualities of each site;
• create height restrictions while recognising that taller wind turbines generally
produce greater energy and are less prone to turbulence;
• restrict rooftop installation to very specific situations;
Profile
The Kings Federation of Agriculture acts as the local voice for the agriculture community
and is a member of the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture. The goal of the
Federation is to ensure financial viability, ecological integrity, and social responsibility of
agricultural in Nova Scotia. The main tasks of the Federation include: reviewing
legislation affecting farmers, lobbying government for policy change and developing and
33
delivering supporting services and programs for the farming community.
Opportunities
The Kings Federation of Agriculture acknowledges one main opportunity of small-scale
wind turbines for the agricultural community, which is:
• wind power could be cost effective for farmers.
Challenge
The Federation recognises that the greatest challenge limiting farmer’s interests in
small-scale turbines is that the cost for installation is very high and requires large initial
input.
Considerations
Kings Federation of Agriculture suggests attention be made to the following factors when
locating small-scale wind turbines on farming land:
• avoid setting an acreage restriction for installing a wind turbine because that
limits and excludes people’s opportunity;
• allow turbines to be located close to barns to make maintenance easier;
• siting turbines in the centre of land could be problem for ploughing;
• provide setbacks for noise;
• treat wind turbines as a farm use, not separate;
• consider financial aid for increasing farmers interests in wind turbines; and,
• consider the selling of energy for profit which could make small-scale wind
turbines more attractive for farmers.
Profile
The Nova Scotia Department of Energy uses the federal Energy Strategy to develop the
province’s energy resources. The department is made up of the Nova Scotia Petroleum
Directorate and the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources’ energy-related
activities.
Opportunities
The Department of Energy recognises the following opportunities for small-scale wind
turbines:
• independence from NSPI;
• access to free and readily available energy; and,
• agricultural opportunities for pumping water.
Challenges
The department acknowledges several challenges for small-scale wind turbines
including:
• the aesthetics of turbines;
• noise concerns;
• substantial financial investment;
• limited economic profit of small-scale turbines compared to large-scale turbines;
and,
• turbines require competency and/or capital to perform regular maintenance.
Considerations
The Department of Energy has several insights to consider when locating small-scale
wind turbines:
• require an environmental assessments before erecting a turbine;
• minimise the distance between the wind turbine and the grid; and,
• require regular maintenance.
1. Bruce County, ON
2. Cape Breton Regional Municipality, NS
3. Pincher Creek, AB
4. Municipality of the County of Kings
5. Windsor, ON
6. Huron County, MI
7. Benton County, WA
8. California Assembly Bill 1607
9. California Government Code Section 65892.13
10. Kittitas County, WA
11. Monterey County, CA
12. New York State: Model Ordinance
13. Rockingham County, VA
14. Washington State, House Bill 1021
15. American Wind Energy Association: Model Ordinance
16. Clean Energy Resource Team (Minnesota)
17. Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA)
General Information:
Proponent Name: Contact Person:
Address: City: Prov
Postal Code: Tel: Fax: Email:
Consultant or Contractor: Contact Person:
Address: City: Prov
Postal Code: Tel: Fax: Email:
Land Use Authority : Contact Person:
Address: City: Prov
Postal Code: Tel: Fax: Email:
Details of Proposal:
Project/Site Name/Number: Nearest town:
New Structure? Yes Height added: m Total Height: ft
No ft m
Coordinates of Site: ° ‘ “ N ° ‘ “
(Lat) W (Long)
For Linear Group of From: ° “ N ‘
Structures ‘ (Lat) ° “W
(include start/end To: ° ‘ (Long
coordinates) “ N )
‘ (Lat) °
Geodetic Datum: NAD27 NAD83 Ground Elevation (above mean ft
WGS84 sea level)
Type of Structure: ft
Structure Height (above ground
Dimensions: level) ft
Electronic / Telecommunication Interference - Check the following items which may cause
High voltage equipment Details
Other Details
A: Proposals for structures not adjacent to an airport ( more than 6 km from centre-point of airport)
Drawings (Where applicable include lot lines and North arrow )
• 4 copies of a 1:50,000 topographical map section with the location of the proposed structure clearly marked
• 4 copies of legal survey (if available)
Details of Trenching/Excavation :
Generation of Details
Smoke/Vapour
Reflectivity Details
Aircraft Parking Details
Exterior Lighting Details
Drawings:( in addition to drawings specified in Section B above)
b) for all other proposals, which may have an impact on the provision of NAV CANADA Air Navigation
System, facilities and services located off-airport (e.g. towers affecting Instrument Approach
Procedures, land use adjacent to a navigation aid, etc.)
2. NAV CANADA non-objection of land use proposals and construction proposals neither constitutes nor replaces
any approvals or permits required by Transport Canada, other Federal Government Departments, Provincial or
Municipal land use authorities, or any agency from which any approval is required.
3. Completed applications and supporting documents should be mailed to the appropriate NAV CANADA regional office below:
(The demarcation line between Eastern and Western regions of NAV CANADA runs north from the US border along 88°
West Longitude to 60° North Latitude, then east to 80° West Longitude and then north to 74° North Latitude.)
Western General Manager Airport Operations (GMAO), NAV CANADA, 1601 Tom
Region: Roberts, P.O. Box 9824, Station T, Ottawa, ON
K1G 6R2, Attention: Land Use Office – West
Tel: (613) 248-4074 Fax: (613) 248-4094
Eastern General Manager Airport Operations (GMAO), NAV CANADA, 1601 Tom
Region: Roberts, P.O. Box 9824, Station T, Ottawa, ON
K1G 6R2, Attention: Land Use Office - East
Tel: (613) 248-4121 Fax: (613) 248-4094