The OSB Environmental and Natural Resources Section

The Promise of Development: Natural Resource Issues in a New Economy

May 7-8, 2009

Environmental Permitting and Impacts of Renewable Energy

Projects – Focus on WindBy Jeff Miller and Hong Huynh, Miller Nash LLP

Energy Siting Authority

• Energy Facility Siting Council (EFSC) Jurisdiction An electric power generating plant with an average electric generating capacity of 35 megawatts or more if the power is produced from geothermal, solar or wind energy at a single energy facility or within a single energy generation area

• Optional EFSC Jurisdiction and Local Permit Authority

Energy Siting Authority (Cont.)

• Environmental Permitting -- EFSC does not have jurisdiction over environmental permits. Siting process, whether through EFSC or the local agency, will require compliance with environmental permitting regulations.

• Stormwater - NPDES Construction Stormwater Control Permit (1200-C)

• Wetlands/Streams - Removal/Fill Permit from Division of State Lands

• Water Resources

• Wastewater

• Onsite Sewage Treatment

• Air Contaminant Discharge Permits

A Focus on Environmental Permits for Small Wind Projects

A Focus on Environmental Permits for Small Wind Projects (Cont.)

• Noise Aviation

• Rare Plants

• Wildlife

• Cultural Resources

• Mineral Resources