As outlined by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, some of the challenges with
increasing wind energy capacity in southern Arizona include:
Insufficient transmission capacity (see compatibility assessment for Issue ED‐2);
Lack of local wind siting ordinances or ordinances utilizing best practices;
Varying wind technology costs and outputs;
Permitting processes resulting from the presence of wildlife species; and
Declining cost of solar energy.
The wind potential in the JLUS Project Area, according to the National Renewable Energy
Laboratory information is mostly on the lower end of the scale due to lower average wind
speeds and a reduced capacity factor when compared to areas in central Arizona.
Potential impacts from future wind energy development in the JLUS Project Area are
primarily related to AZARNG helicopter operations at and around SBAH, Picacho Peak
Stagefield, Rittenhouse Training Site and the TFTA. Of particular concern are low level
flying and nighttime training across the 3,600 square mile TFTA that would be impacted if
large wind turbines were built. Low level helicopter training flights can operate down to
just above the ground. Wind turbine heights have increased in recent years in an effort
to leverage powerful winds at higher elevations, with some models of turbines ranging
from 400 to 600 feet tall. Wind turbines located under the TFTA or other helicopter flight
routes would pose hazards to safe flight operations due to the potential of collisions.
The Pinal County 2015 Comprehensive Plan includes provisions to develop future
renewable energy resources although wind energy is not a primary focus. The Plan does
not identify compatibility planning with the military for future wind energy development.
The Pinal County Zoning Ordinance establishes requirements that limit building and
communication tower heights, but does not include regulations related to wind turbine
energy installation heights. The Town of Florence’s General Plan and zoning ordinance
do not address wind energy generation facilities including height restrictions. The Town
of Marana’s General Plan and zoning ordinance do not provide requirements related to
renewable wind energy turbines and their height. The City of Eloy’s General Plan and
zoning ordinance do not address wind energy generation facilities including height
restrictions. The City’s zoning ordinance does limit solar thermal towers to 200 feet. The
Town of Queen Creek’s zoning ordinance does prohibit any tower or similar facility from
creating a hazard or obstruction to air navigation. The General Plan and zoning
ordinance do not provide any additional requirements related to wind energy generation
facilities.
Background Report
Dry Lake Wind Power Project
Wind Turbines in Navajo
County
Source: Arizona Capital Gazette,
2010
5-37