Energy District bylaw introduced in Wheatland County

By Sharon McLeay Times Contributor

On May 7, Wheatland County council reviewed the first draft of a new bylaw (2019-04) to set up an Energy District designation that would deal with large-scale solar and wind energy projects.
“As the province has provided funding and support to developers to build the renewable sector, it is important that Wheatland County is prepared for these projects through detailed site regulation and continued consistency with our MDP (municipal development plan) and RGMS (regional growth management strategy) regulatory sections that pertain to renewables,” said Odessa Cohen, junior planner for the county.
Cohen stated it was the first draft of the bylaw and it may need guidance and amendments from council to enhance and improve it.
The Energy District designation limits the building coverage and impervious surfaces up to 85 per cent of lot sizes, sets height guidelines for turbines and setbacks to roads, buildings and adjacent residences for wind and energy developments. Detailed drawings are required that include distances to adjacent landowners and hamlets. The county has designated preferred locations for these types of facilities and encourages developers to consider the least conflict areas designated by the county.
The regular environmental, storm water and impact studies, such as noise and traffic assessment reports, will be required.
There is a requirement to present community engagement efforts, but it is up to the development authority to consider whether further public consultation is necessary. Adequate signage is to be placed on the facilities for public safety and all electrical lines are to be placed underground.
The guidelines for decommissioning the sites required that abandoned projects restore the soil conditions to pre-development status. A plan for these may be asked for by the development officer on application. Safety provisions include fall protection and high angle rescue certification for wind facilities, as well as emergency response plans for both solar and wind. Recommendations are to use flat black non-reflective surfaces for installation exteriors. Adequate spacing of units, greens maintenance and weed containment are also defined. Fencing, ladders and locking provisions are defined in the bylaw.