TODAY’S DATE:12/26/13
STORY SLUG: evtx1228sandhill
STORY SUMMARY/BUDGET LINE:
LIVERMORE–An East Coast wind turbine company plans on using the Altamont Pass as a test site for a new type of windmill design that could prove safer for birds. Ogin Inc. is proposing a first-of-its kind project involving the installation of 40 “shrouded turbines” that the company says are more efficient than conventional and could reduce mortality rates for birds and bats. If the test is successful in reducing rates, a second phase of 300 windmills would be built, replacing the 330 1980s-90s era windmills in the Altamont which are being phased out. A three-year avian mortality study is ongoing; the company hopes to install the new shrouded turbines by mid-2014. The project would be the largest re-powering of windmills on the Altamont Pass in years, and county planners say the test could set a precedent for future wind power development in the area.
REPORTER: Jeremy Thomas
PHONE: 925-847-2184
EDITOR: Kelly Gust
DEADLINE DATE & TIME: 12/27 3 p.m.
PUBLICATION DATE:12/28
DETAILS: County documents show schematics of new design, map of test area and comparisons with other types of windmills. Would like a graphic of what the new turbines look like with an inset map. I have asked company for photos of new turbines but they are not sure whether they want to make them available to us.
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