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Wind-turbine potential to get trial in Solon
(by Sue Reid - January 20, 2011)
Wind-turbine potential to get trial in Solon
By SUE REID
Solon's planning commission approved a structure height variance last week to allow for a temporary meteorology tower at the Swagelok Co. to determine whether a wind turbine is feasible.
"The whole purpose of this study is to see if wind energy has any potential in the city of Solon," Ed Bayer, director of sustainability for Swagelok, said. "This is a very worthwhile exercise."
The tower will measure the wind speed, how often it blows at that speed and be able to generate the data, Solon Public Works Director James S. Stanek said.
He said he has been working with Green Energy Ohio and Swagelok on the proposal for about three years. The city is receiving a grant through Green Energy Ohio for the rental of the tower, and only three of the grants are available each year, Mr. Stanek said. The study would cost in the range of $40,000 to $50,000, he said.
"They'll have some historical data as to what the wind conditions are for quite a long period," Mr. Stanek said.
The commission agreed to allow the structure to be in place for 24 months. The variance was for 197 feet, 8.25 inches. The proposed tower would be located at the rear, southwest corner of the Swagelok property at 29495 FA Lennon Drive, directly adjacent to a landfill.
Solon Planning Director Robert S. Frankland said that, as a use, a wind turbine is permitted. It's only the height that needs a variance, he said. Solon's code limits the height of free-standing structures within the I-2 zoning district to not more then 50 feet. "Any turbine in the city would need a variance," he said.
"As of right now, effectively our ordinances prohibit them because of the height restrictions," Mr. Frankland said. "The city does not directly, but effectively, prohibit them."
There is nothing like this being proposed elsewhere in Solon, he said.
"Swagelok is very interested in alternative energy sources," Mr. Frankland said. "They seem to be very conscientious in that area.
"It is not surprising that they would be the first business to look into a wind turbine," he said.
"It's an ideal location for us," Mr. Bayer said. It also results in limited liability associated with it.
"We are very fortunate that Swagelok is providing this property," Mr. Stanek said. The property provides the perfect setting to do this. It is nowhere near residential property."
Swagelok was to go before City Council Tuesday with the proposal.
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