Feasibility Study Underway For Wind Farm Near Decatur

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

— Research is underway to determine if a wind farm project is feasible in an area between Decatur and Gentry.

Nathan Wilson, founder and manager of "Winds of Change" explained recently that a wind profiler located at the site will measure wind direction and speed to determine if construction of a wind farm is feasible.

If readings at the site are favorable construction of eight to 12 wind turbines capable of supplying more than 8,000 megawatt hours per turbine each year can begin.

SWEPCO, Empire Electric and Carroll Electric have expressed interest in the project, Wilson said, according to a report in "The Decatur Herald" and "Gentry Courier-Journal".

Wilson said he would like to see local residents and businesses become investors rather than obtain funding from foreign investors.

Concerning the project, the Decatur City Council voted to hand over planning authority or the project south of Decatur to Benton County. Location of the proposed wind farm is within Decatur's planning jurisdiction.

News, Pages 5 on 09/09/2009