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Committee discusses RWE wind repower inquiry and ADLS lighting limits tied to FAA approval
Summary
An RWE wind project raised the possibility of a repower (upgrades) potentially beginning in 2028; planners said the original 2010–2011 ordinance and attached conditions will determine whether repowering requires a new special-use review. Consultants also explained aircraft detection lighting systems and FAA authority above certain heights.
Unidentified Speaker 1 told the committee a wind developer (RWE) asked whether the county would allow repowering of an existing wind project, likely beginning around 2028. The project area was described as the Sheldon/Old Settlers area near Milford and possibly extending toward Vermillion.
Unidentified Speaker 4 said a repower often is treated through a special-use-permit process but that the county must review the ordinance and any conditions attached to the 2010–2011 approvals to see which elements remain in effect or whether a new special-use review is required. Planning staff will ask Julie to locate the original ordinance and determining document.
On lighting, Unidentified Speaker 4 described aircraft detection lighting systems (ADLS) that turn lights on only when aircraft are detected and said the FAA controls lighting above roughly 200 feet; the county can require operational and compliance protections (including potential fines) but cannot require FAA approval.
Committee members asked staff to search for the original ordinance, consider road-use and decommissioning implications, and return with guidance on how repowers are handled under existing local rules.
