OAR 330-070-0089: Wind Alternative Energy Devices

(1) A qualifying wind energy conversion system is a device that uses wind to produce mechanical or electrical power or energy, and includes turbines, towers and their associated components needed to form a complete system. (2) To qualify for a tax credit: (a) A minimum annual average wind speed of 10 miles per hour at hub height or lower must be demonstrated at the wind AED site. (b) A wind AED system manufacturer must make available estimated monthly or annual energy production data (kWh) at various annual average wind speeds for each model or system they produce. (c) The wind AED system model must meet industry standards as approved by the department. (d) A wind AED system application must include the nominal rated electric capacity, the power curve and energy production data as a function of the average annual wind speed. (e) A wind system must have a minimum five-year manufacturer’s warranty. (3) The department reserves the right to deny eligibility for any wind AED for reasons including, but not limited to, poor generator performance, concerns about wind generation system design, the quality of data presented, lack of manufacturing support for maintenance or warranties. (4) Systems must be designed and located to reduce the potential for hazards and unpleasant living conditions. Systems must be designed and located taking into account: (a) The proximity of the system to buildings, power lines, antennae or other similar hazards; (b) The effect of high winds on the system and on any building connected to the system by guy wires; (c) Whether the system blocks fire lanes, obstructs dwelling access, or otherwise increases fire danger; (d) Whether the operation of the system significantly increases background noise; and (e) Whether connecting the system to other buildings by guy wires creates vibration and tension in other buildings. (5) Materials used will assure that the wind AED has adequate: (a) Strength; (b) Resistance to ice, moisture, corrosion and fire; (c) Durability; and (d) Low maintenance cost. (6) No part of a wind AED project may result in toxic substances entering into the environment in amounts that will cause disease or harmful physical effects to humans, animals or plants. (7) Maximum Design Wind Speed: All parts of a Wind AED project must withstand the highest wind speed expected at its location. All parts must withstand this wind without damage. To meet this requirement, wind AEDs may be shut down during highest expected winds. (8) Shutdown: All wind AEDs must have a way to stop the rotor from turning. This method must work safely during high winds and routine service. (9) Overspeed Control: Rotor overspeeds must be prevented by the wind AED’s design. (10) Tower Safety: All parts of a wind AED project must meet accepted engineering standards. Tower design must include consideration of: (a) Gravity load; and (b) Peak thrust on the rotor, nacelle, tail and tower over the full wind speed operating range. (11) Tower Height: A minimum tower height of 70 feet is required. All portions of the rotor disc of the wind AED must be at least 30 feet above any object within a 400 foot radius of the wind AED’s base. Future growth of trees for the next 20 years must be taken into consideration. (12) Electric: All wind AED electrical parts must adhere to all standards and codes in force at the time they are installed.