HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-08-12 Planning & Zoning Packet - Work SessionCITY OF KENAI
PLANNING et ZONING
COMMISSION
Work Session Reminder
Immediately Following The
MEETING
August 12, 2009
Amendment to Kenai Municipal Code
Wind Energy Systems Proposed Ordinance
the a7y of
KENA SKA
Planning Zoning Commission
Ordinance Recommendations
July 22, 2009
CITY OF KENAI
ORDINANCE NO. -2008
Suggested by: Administration
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KENAI ENACTING KMC 14.20.235 ESTABLISHING
A PROCESS, RULES AND STANDARDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION
OF ACCESSORY WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS
WHEREAS, the City of Kenai has enacted the Kenai Zoning Code in KMC 14.20; and,
WHEREAS, the use of accessory wind energy systems is increasing; and,
WHEREAS, the use of accessory wind energy systems is not sufficiently addressed in
the Kenai Zoning Code; and,
WHEREAS, the intent of this ordinance is to establish a process, rules and standards
for the construction and operation of accessory wind energy systems used primarily
for on -site power consumption
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the citizens of the City of Kenai to enact an
ordinance regulation the installation, use and operation of accessory wind energy
systems (wind turbines).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF KENAI,
ALASKA, that the City of Kenai Code of Ordinances is hereby amended by adding a
new section to be numbered KMC 14.20.235 which shall read as follows:
14.20.235 Wind Turbines
(a) Definitions:
(1) Accessory Wind Energy System: A system designed as a secondary use to
existing buildings or facilities, wherein the power generated is used
primarily for on -site consumption. The system consists of a wind turbine
and associated controls and may include a tower.
(2) Hub Height: The distance measured from ground level to the center of the
turbine hub.
(3) Total Height: The distance measured from ground level to the blade
Extended at its highest point.
(4) Wind Turbine: a device which converts the kinetic energy of the wind
into a useable form of energy.
(b) Where allowed:
(1) Accessory wind energy systems shall be considered an allowed secondary
use.
(2) Any deviation from the required standards of this ordinance may be
approved through the issuance of a conditional use permit.
(c) Performance Standards and Design Requirements.
(1) The requirements of this ordinance shall apply to all accessory wind energy
systems proposed after the effective date of this ordinance.
(2) All accessory wind energy systems shall conform to the applicable uniform
codes contained in Title 4 of the Kenai Municipal Code and the industry
standards adopted by the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA).
(3) In the RR, RR -1, RS, RS1, RS2, RU, CC, LC, CMU, and TSH Districts no
more than one system is permitted per parcel.
(4) In the CG, ED, R, IL, and C Districts no more than two systems are
permitted per parcel.
(5) The permitted height shall be that measured from preexisting natural grade
to the center of the turbine hub for horizontal and vertical systems. The
hub height limitation for accessory wind energy systems for secondary use
or allowed by conditional use are as follows:
(A) In the RR, RR -1, RS, RS1, RS2, RU, CC, LC, CMU, and TSH Districts
hub height is limited to 35 feet.
(B) In the RR, RR -1, RS, RS I, RS2, RU, CC, LC, CMU, and TSH Districts
hub heights may extend above the roof a maximum of twenty (20) feet
but total height of the structure and system cannot exceed forty -seven
(47) feet.
(C) In the CG, ED, R, IL and C Districts accessory wind energy systems
with total height not exceeding 150 feet may be permitted; total height
exceeding 150 feet requires a conditional use permit.
(D) In the IH District accessory wind energy system with total height not
exceeding 300 feet may be permitted; total height exceeding 300 feet
requires a conditional use permit.
(E) Total height limitation near the Kenai Municipal Airport. Regardless of
zone, accessory wind energy systems in aircraft- approach zones and
within eight thousand feet (8,000) feet of the main runway shall be
subject to height limitation on the basis of obstruction criteria as
shown on the current FAA- approved Kenai Airport Master Plan
drawings which are on file at Kenai City Hall. No conditional use may
be granted that deviates from this requirement.
(6) Minimum blade ground clearance in all zones is ten feet (10').
(7) Setback requirements shall be 100% of the total height of the accessory
wind energy system from all property lines. No part of the wind system
structure, including guy wire anchors, may extend into the minimum
setback area of the underlying zoning district or into any access or utility
easements.
(8) The following types of accessory wind energy systems are allowed as a
secondary use or by conditional use are as follows:
(A) In the RR, RR -1, RS, RS1, RS2, RU, CC, LC, CMU, and TSH Districts
monopole and vertical access systems are allowed.
(B) In the RR, RR -1, RS, RS1, RS2, RU, CC, LC, CMU, and TSH Districts
roof mounted systems are allowed with certification from an engineer
licensed in the State of Alaska that the roof is built to accommodate the
system.
(C) In the CG, ED, R, IL, IH, and C Districts monopole, guyed, lattice,
vertical access, and roof systems are allowed.
a. Guyed and lattice towers must be secured in a fenced area with a
minimum of a 6 -foot high fence to prevent unauthorized access.
(9) All portions of the energy system shall be a non reflective, non obtrusive
color, subject to the approval of the City Planner. The appearance of the
turbines, towers and any other related components shall be maintained
throughout the life of the accessory wind energy system pursuant to AWEA
standards.
(10) Systems shall not be used for displaying of advertising.
(11) Systems shall not be illuminated unless required by a state or federal
agency.
(12) The electrical collection system shall be placed underground with the
interior of each parcel. The connection system may be placed overhead
near substations or points of interconnection to the electric grid. All grid
connected systems shall have a completed contractual agreement with the
local utility prior to the issuance of a building permit.
(13) Accessory wind energy systems shall be designed, installed, and operated
so that noise generated by the system shall not exceed fifty decibels (50
dB), as measured from the nearest property line, except during short
term events including utility outages and severe wind storms.
(14) Building permits shall be obtained for any accessory wind energy system
prior to installation. Building permit applications must include foundation
plans designed by an engineer licensed in the State of Alaska for the
installation location of the wind energy system.
(d) Maintenance. Accessory wind energy systems shall be erected and maintained
plumb, level, and true and kept repaired, painted, and maintained in
accordance with manufacturers recommendation and any other applicable
publications.
(e) Obsolescence and Removal. If the accessory wind energy system remains
nonfunctional or inoperative for a continuous period of 180 days, the system
shall be deemed to be abandoned and shall constitute a public nuisance. The
owner shall remove the abandoned system at the owner's expense after a
demolition permit has been obtained. Removal applies to the entire system
including foundations to below natural grade, and transmission equipment.
Center for Sustainable Systems
2,5MW Clipper,
Complete it of FacIshests atdtp :!lcss.snro.umich.eduffects>
The Wind Resource and its Potential
Approximately 2% of the solar energy striking the Earth's surface is
converted to kinetic energy in wind.' The distribution of wind energy is
heterogeneous, both across the surface of the Earth (see the map at
righta) and vertically through the atmosphere. Wind turbines convert
the wind's kinetic energy to electricity without emissions. Although
only 0,77% of U.S. electricity was derived from wind energy in 2006,
over 1% will be generated in 2008 wind capacity is increasing rapidly,
Class 3 winds annual average speed of 11.5 12.5 mph at 10m) are
generally the minimum needed for a commercially viable project.
Wind power is proportional to the cube of wind speed.
The global average wind power at typical commercial turbine hub
heights could be as much as 72 TW, while total global electricity
capacity from all sources in 2005 was 3.87 TW.
Because wind speeds are lower close to the earth's surface a
phenomenon called "wind shear" there is more wind power
available higher off the surface. The hubs of most modern wind turbines are 70 -100 meters above the ground.
Since wind is a variable energy resource, other electricity generators need to be ramped up when winds abate.
In a recent study in Minnesota, wind variability increased the cost to operate the grid by less than a 0.45¢ /kWh of electricity produced,
for up to 25% of annual electricity derived from wind.?
Detailed state wind maps can be found under the `Wind Maps' link at: http /www.windpoweringamerica,gov/
Installation, Manufacturing and Cost
Global annual installations of wind systems grew at an average
of 27% per year (27% in the U.S., see figure) since 2000.
The average turbine size installed in 2007 was 1.65 MW, up
from 0.71MW in 1998 -99.
Average capacity factor has increased from 0.225 for projects
installed before 1998 to roughly 0.33 for projects in 2006
higher capacity factors tend to lead to lower power prices.
Installed wind project costs declined by roughly $2,700 /kW
between the early 1980's and 2001, but have gradually increased
since then. The national average in 2007 was $1,710/kW.
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University of Michigan
440 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 -1041
phone: 734-764-1412 fax: 734-647-5841
email: css.info@umich.edu
http :ikss.snre.umich.edu
Annual Average Wind Power Classes
speed
(mph M 1Am}
716,7
14.3-16.7
114- 14.3
12.6- 134
114- 12.6
14- 11.6
U.S. Wind Capacity (MW)
Annual US Capacity (left scale)
e ®o Cumulative U5 Capacity (right scare)
Since 2003, commercial wind energy cost has been 3 -4¢ /kWh. Retail electricity averages 9.10 /kWh for all users,t
Wind Energy Technology and Impacts
Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines
This factsheet focuses on horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWT, picture at left) because they are predominant.
The HAWT rotor comprises blades (usually three) symmetrically mounted to a hub.
The rotor is connected via a shaft to a gearbox, and the generator is housed within the turbine's nacelle.
The nacelle is mounted atop a tower that is connected to the ground with a concrete foundation.
HAWT come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 2.5 meters in diameter and 1 kW for residential applications up to
100+ meters in diameter and over 3.5 MW for offshore applications (see figures on left and page 2
The capacity factor- of a wind turbine is its average power output divided by its maximum power capability. Capacity
factor depends on the quality of the wind at the turbine. Higher capacity factors imply more energy generation.
Most HAWT extract 40% or more of the energy from the wind that passes through the rotor area. The theoretical
maximum efficiency of a HAWT is under 50
On land, capacity factors in the range of 0.25 to 0.30 are considered reasonable; over 0.40 is considered excellent,"
Offshore winds are generally stronger than on land, and capacity factors can exceed 0.50, but offshore wind farms
Medicine Bow, WY are more expensive to develop and maintain. Most offshore turbines are currently placed in depths of 30m or less.
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The leading wind states are Texas and California, with 4,450 MW and 2,440 MW,
respectively, followed by Minnesota and Iowa with about 1,300 MW of capacity each.
The figure shows the leading countries and their 2007 additions
In agricultural areas, annual lease payments provide a stable income to farmers of
between $2,000 and $5,000/MW of installed wind turbine capacity (depending on the
number of turbines on the farmer's property, the value of the power generated, and
lease terms),
In a multi- turbine wind farm, z60 acres of land are needed per MW of installed
capacity, but 5% or Less of this total area is actually occupied by roads, turbine
foundations, or other equipment 95% of this area is available for other uses,
A small (3 -10 kW) turbine on an 80 ft. tower with an inverter and batteries would cost
$15,000450,000 installed.
Gustayson, M.R. (1979) "Limits to Wind Power Utilization," Science 204 (4388): 13 -17.
2 National Renewable Energy Lab (1986) Wind Resource Atlas alarm United States.
U.S. DOE, Energy Information Administration (ETA) (2007) Annual Energy Review 2006
U.S DOE (2008) 20% 1Vlnd Energy by 2030: Increasing IVind Energy's Contribution to U.S. Electricity SrryP!y.
5 Archer, C.Land M. Z. Jacobson (2005) "Evacuation of global wind power." Journal of Geophysical Research.
Atmospheres, Vol. 110, pp. 20.
6 MA 2006) hntenuaio of Energy Amami 2005
Enemex Corporation (2006) Final Report 2006 Minnesota Wind Integration Study. Volume 1.
linage courtesy of DOE/ NREL Credit Clipper Liberty.
Image courtesy of GE Arklow 003.
1° 19au, E. (2006) Wind Turbines Fundamentals, Technologies, Application, Economics, 2nd ed.
u American Wind Energy Association (1998) "How does a Wind Turbine's Energy Production Differ from Its Power
Production?"
12 EERE (2007)rfniniai Report on U.S. Wind Power Installat ion, Cost, and Performance Trends: 2006.
11 ETA (2008) Short -Term Energy Outlook May 2008.
U.S. Government Accountability Office (2004) Renewable Energy, 1Vhed Power's Contribution to
Electric Power Generation and Impact on Fauns rind Rural Communities. Report #GAO -04 -756.
Fond fie Facts htip :Ilcss.snre,umlch.odulfaats>
Cumulative Wind Capacity (GW)
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Energy Performance and Environmental Impacts
Wind turbines can dramatically reduce environmental impacts associated with fossil- fueled electricity generation 470 gal fresh
water /MWh of electricity are evaporated by thermoelectric plants. U.S. air pollutant emissions were 847 kg CO2 /MWh, 3.3 kg
S02 /MWh, and 1.3 kg NO /MWh, for the 2.88 x10 MWh of electricity generated from fossil fuels in 2006.
s According to a 2008 study, if 20% of U.S. electricity was wind generated by 2030, annual CO2 emissions would decrease by 825 billion
kg, 7.6 trillion kg of CO would be cumulatively avoided by 2030, and electricity generation -based water usage would decrease by 17
A 2005 study of two U.S. wind farms found net energy ratios (energy generated /energy invested) of 47 and 65.
Avian mortality due to collisions with wind turbines is much lower than for other human structures e.g., buildings, communication
towers or from domestic cats, but the best way to minimize mortality is careful siting picking sites with low bird use,
Bat mortality due to wind turbines is less well studied and research is ongoing (as it is with avian issues), but in one survey bat mortality
was lower than avian mortality in all regions except the east. A large percentage of bat collisions occur during the fall migratory period.
Noise, in dB(A), from a typical wind farm at 350m is 35 -45. For comparison, a quiet bedroom is 35 and a 40 mph car 100 m away is 55.
Solutions and Sustainable Actions
Policies Promoting Renewablos
The price consumers pay for electricity generated with conventional fuels does not include externalities, such as the cost of health effects
from air pollution, environmental damage from resource extraction, or long -term nuclear waste storage. Policies that support wind and
other renewables can address these externalities. The following are examples of wind policy incentives.
A renewable pottfolio standard (RPS) schedules electricity providers to obtain a minimum fraction of their energy from renewable resources.
Capacity Debates are one -time up -front payments for building renewable energy projects, based on the capacity (in watts) installed.
Feed -in tams set a minimum per kWh price paid to renewable electricity generators by retail electricity distributors.
The federal production tax credit (PTC) reduces the owner's corporate tax liability by 1.9¢ /kWh produced from wind.
Clean renewable energy bonds are interest -free financing, for municipal and co -op utilities, that have no tax liability,
Section 9006 of the Falyn Bill is the renewable energy and energy efficiency program that funds grants and loan guarantees
for agricultural producers and rural small businesses.
System benefits charges are paid by all utility customers and create a fund for low income support, renewables, efficiency,
and R &D projects that are unlikely to be provided by a competitive market.
Net metering requires retail utilities to credit customers who generate more electricity than they consume,
For a listing of current U.S. policies by state, see the DSIRE database at http: /www.dsireusa,org/
What Can You Do?
Make your lifestyle more energy efficient this will reduce the total amount of energy you use in the first place.
Invest in non fossil electricity generation infrastructure by purchasing "green power" from your utility.
Get involved with your local renewable energy association.
Buy Green Tags also known as carbon offsets or Renewable Energy" Certificates (RECs). A REC represents the environmental
attributes separate from the actual electrons associated with a unit of renewably- generated electricity.
Consider installing your own wind system, especially if you live in a state that provides financial incentives or has a net metering policy.
Visit the U.S. Department of Energy's website at http: /www.eere. energy. gov/ windandhydro/ windpoweringamerica /small_wind.asp/
3.6MW GE
Arklow Bank, 1R1
rs American Wind Energy Association (2007) "How much land is needed for a utility -scale wind plant?"
16 EERE (2005) Small wind electric systems: A US. consumer's guide. DOE1G0- 102005 -2095
17 Torcellini, P., et al. (2003) Consumptive IVater Use for U,5 Power Production. NREIJ!'P•550•33905
t5 Spitzley, D.V. and G.A. Keoteian (2005) Life cycle environmental and economic assessment of
willow biomass electricity. Center for Sustainable Systems Report 1/CS5124.05R
19 Erickson, W.P., et al. (2001)Avlmr collisions with wind turbines: A summary of existing studies and
comparisons 10 other sources of avian collision mortality in the United Stoles.
20 National Wind Coordinating Committee (2004) 1Vind turbine interaction with birds and buts: a
srmmraay of research results and remaining questions.
21 British Wind Energy Association (2000) Nalse from wind turbines. The facts.
22 U.S. Department of Agriculture (2007) 2002 Farm Bill Initiative: The Renewable Energy and Energy
Efficiency Program. USDA Puna Bill Section 9006.
EERE (2007) REC's Available to Retail Customers.
http:l /www.sere. energy. govlgreenpowerimarketsltertifrcates .slrtml ?page. I
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