Zoning Administrator Steve Tilley said they have been recently approached by homeowners and business owners who want to install wind energy systems in order to reduce their power bills.
“The board understands that wind energy systems can provide lower-cost power for homeowners, small businesses and for commercial power production,” he said.
“The board wants to provide basic guidance to ensure that small and large wind energy systems are safe and compatible with the neighborhoods where they are installed,” Tilley added.
The zoning board is now collecting information about the types of wind energy systems that may be marketed on islands.
Prior to submitting the proposed regulations, the zoning board looked into the areas in California and Massachusetts that use wind energy.
The public has 30 days to comment on the proposed wind energy zoning regulations published in the Commonwealth Register. The zoning board will also conduct public hearings.
Under the proposed regulations, a small wind energy system must have small turbine design approved by the American Wind Energy Association and must comply with the Federal Aviation Agency’s standards, including any necessary approvals for installations close to airports.
Requirements on installing a large wind energy system are also indicated in the proposed regulations for Saipan.
