PZC Making Big Move On Small Wind Energy

Julia Roberts would likely rather been known for helping to bring small wind energy systems to Stonington than for her well-known celebrity name.

Roberts, who sits on the Stonington Borough Planning and Zoning Commission, brought the application for an amendment to the town zoning regulations to include rules for renewable energy, namely small wind systems.

Roberts proposal has been the subject of a public hearing and been discussed by the town Planning and Zoning Commission at two meetings.

According to the American Small Wind Energy Association, small wind turbines are “electric generators that utilize wind energy to produce clean, emissions-free power.”  The small wind systems are used primarily by homeowners, farms, and small businesses.

And with the regulations that are expected to be adopted by the PZC Tuesday night, about 25 percent of the community would be permitted to install a small wind system, albeit one to a customer in approved residential zones and two per lot in permitted commercial zones.

“I think it’s understood we’re taking baby steps here,” said PZC acting chair Ben Tamsky.

Roberts begged to differ: “I think it’s more than that, more meaningful than that. They realize small wind is up and coming. It’s time.”

The new regulations would require the small energy systems have a fixed tower height not to exceed 40-feet, be in neutral shades, emit as much noise as a quiet refrigerator, produce no discernible vibration or shadow, and otherwise unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing.

The one requirement that has caused at least a few commissioners, as well as the applicant some concern is the restriction that the small wind systems would only be permitted on lots at  least 40,000 square feet, meaning more than three-fourths of the residents of the town would not be allowed to install a small wind energy systems.

And more than one commissioner called that move discriminatory, but would be re-visited in a year or two.

“It is discriminatory," said member John Prue. "It’s not going to be in any of our population centers. I’m guessing 20 percent of the population is not going to be able to avail themselves of this energy [system]. For now, anyway."

If and when a resident or business moves to install a small wind energy system, the town will require a site plan be filed with the PZC including specific details on the system. They will not be permitted in non-infringement or buffer areas or inland or tidal wetlands.

“This is a very good outcome,” Roberts said last week. “The Commission has been careful with this to make sure it didn’t go down the tubes. I give them a lot of credit…they’re community volunteers and this is all very new. They wanted to make sure they got it right so there wouldn’t be any backlash.”

PZC alternate member Frances Hoffman called the adoption of small wind energy, “An important step for the Town of Stonington.”