Renewable Projects in Local Governments' Hands

Washington talks big about renewable energy, as they should.  But when it comes to the permitting of wind and solar, renewable projects are in local governments’ hands.  The truth is that the Obama Administration can implement taxes, offer green incentives and regulate through cap and trade.  However, neither the President nor your Congressperson can approve the proposed wind farm in your community.

What does it take before a renewable energy project can be built?

The answer varies from city to city, and county to county.  Some jurisdictions have adopted ordinances that specifically set forth standards for alternative energy approval.  Others simply rely on the conditional use permit (CUP) process, which is designed so that a project can be approved only if its impact on surrounding areas and the environment is minimal, and it is otherwise consistent with the uses allowed by underlying zoning (for example, agriculture or forestry).

My bet is that more municipalities will enact specific regulations directed toward wind or solar projects, much like the cell tower ordinances adopted about a decade ago.  If you are a renewable energy developer or concerned citizen, you should definitely participate in the legislative process to develop the regulation(s).  There are a number of biases against alternative energy projects, many of which are not based on sound evidence.  At the recent hearing for the West Butte Wind Farm project in Oregon, the planning commission indicated that they would like the Council to adopt regulations for future wind farms in the County.  It remains to be seen whether the proposal will be approved through the CUP process.

Consider the power in the hands of your locally-elected councilpersons or commissioners.  These are the people that will be deciding whether a wind farm goes up in your community, or solar panels may be erected on building tops.  Keep that in mind during the next election cycle, too.

Build, Baby Build recognizes that renewable projects are permitted by the same communities in which they are built.  That’s why we’ve established forums for communities across the country, and why we’re encouraging grassroots efforts to help alternative energy developments succeed.

In short, you can make a difference right in your hometown.  That’s where it happens.

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