July 12, 2011
Minnesota

Couple wants to build bigger turbine

Elizabeth Mohr, Pioneer Press, www.twincities.com 12 July 2011

Washington County commissioners Tuesday denied a Denmark Township couple’s request to amend the development code so they can build a wind turbine larger than rules allow.

Commissioners said they were supportive of David and Cynthia Krueger’s proposal for their farm but would prefer to change the ordinance on a broader scale.

The board sent the issue back to the planning commission, asking for a review of the ordinance and a possible revised version with stricter language regarding land size requirements.

The county allows turbine towers a maximum of 100 feet. Lots must be a minimum of 10 acres, but only one turbine per property is acceptable.

The Kruegers have 233 acres and would like to build a 200-foot turbine tower.

Representatives from Renewable Energy SD, which would build the Kruegers’ turbine, said the structure would be one-fiftieth the size of those seen on wind farms and would generate far less noise, something neighbors are concerned about.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/07/12/couple-wants-to-build-bigger-turbine/