Wind turbines up for debate across the state
Wind energy seems quite popular right now. Maryland officials are moving ahead on planning for offshore wind turbines, and the Maryland Energy Administration offers tax credits for installing wind systems at home.
But some local counties are moving a little more slowly in figuring out how to allow the eco-friendly energy producers while not infringing on the rights of neighbors. At least two Maryland counties are trying to figure out what, if any, wind turbines are acceptable on people's residential property.
Baltimore County has proposed allowing wind turbines under certain conditions, like the lot has to be an acre and the turbine can't be taller than 150 feet. A meeting is planned at 5 p.m. tonight to get citizen input. The meeting will be held in the Planning Board Hearing Room, Room 104 of the Jefferson Building, 105 W. Chesapeake Ave., in Towson.
Click here for more information and a staff report on the subject.
Anne Arundel County is also trying to decide what to do with its one applicant. Baltimore City recently rejected the first person to seek a residental turbine (on the roof of a rowhouse) because zoning law didn't allow for it. The city is currently updating its zoning law.
So, are we moving too slow? Too fast?
Associated Press photo of an offshore wind farm in Denmark
Comments
We have to move within the parameters our homes and neighborhoods allow. There's no question that wind power should and will ultimately be allowed, but it's different than solar panels which don't rotate, vibrate or create any sound. They also don't murder birds. Wind turbines are actual machines that have to be adjusted if incorporated into urban as well as suburban living areas.
Posted by: Patrice C. Davidson | September 22, 2009 4:43 PM
There is a new style of wind turbine which rotates like a carousel, not a ferris wheel. It's super-quiet, vibration free and sits on 18 foot poles.It's even safe for the birds. My friends run the company. I don't work for them (yet). Check out: www.wepower.usa for more info.
Posted by: Penny | September 25, 2009 4:31 PM