Wind generation projects must evaluate any proposed site for compliance with federal regulations. Federal regulations governing development are site specific requiring an analysis of the surrounding area for conflict.
The height of wind towers may require lighting to comply with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. The FAA requires sites near airports to mark structure to avoid aircraft collisions. Current regulations focus on generic structures however, proposed regulations address wind generators directly.[1]
Any federal agencies may require Environmental Impact Statement or Environmental Assessments for proposed wind power development in environmentally protected areas such as historic sites, national parks, and other areas designated by agencies for protection.[2] Assessments and Impact Reports are triggered by danger to the protected locale.
The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 established the National Registry of sites of national historic interests.[3] The act requires all federal, state, and municipal agencies to consider the impact to sites on the National Registry. Proposed wind power generator developments near historic sites must file an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and an Environmental Assessment (EA) on the impact of development to nearby protected sites.
[1] Development of Obstruction Lighting Standards for Wind Turbine Farms,
DOT/FAA/AR-TN05/50 Federal Aviation Administration,
[2] The National Environmental Policy Act, 42 U.S.C. §§4371 (1969), see also; The Endangered Species Act 16 U.S.C. §§1531-1544 (1973), and The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act 16 U.S.C. §§668dd
[3] The National Historic Preservation Act, 16 U.S.C. §§470-470b, 470c-470n (1966)
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