(a) The Wind Energy Turbine’s owner(s) or operator(s) shall complete decommissioning within sixty (60) days after the end of the Wind Energy Turbine’s useful life. Upon request of the owner(s) or assigns of the wind energy turbine, and for a good cause, the Zoning Inspector may grant a reasonable extension of time to complete decommissioning. A Wind Energy Turbine is presumed to be at the end of its useful life if no electricity is generated for a continuous period of twelve (12) months. All decommissioning expenses are the responsibility of the owner(s) or operator(s).
(b) If the Wind Energy Turbine’s owner(s) or operator(s) fails to complete decommissioning within the period prescribed above, the Zoning Inspector may designate a contractor to complete decommissioning with the expense thereof to be charged to the violator or to become a lien against the premises. If the Wind Energy Turbine is not owned by the property owner(s), a bond must be provided to the Village by the turbine operator(s) for the cost of decommissioning each Wind Energy Turbine.
(c) Decommissioning shall include:
(1) The removal of each Wind Energy Turbine, buildings, electrical components, and any other associated facilities. Any foundation shall be removed to a minimum depth of sixty (60) inches below grade, or to the level of the bedrock if less than sixty (60) inches below grade.
(2) The site and any disturbed earth shall be stabilized, graded, and cleared of any debris by the owner(s) of the facility or it assigns. If the site is not to be used for agricultural practices following removal, the site shall be seeded to prevent soil erosion, unless the property owner(s) requests in writing that the land surface areas not be restored.
(Ord. 734. Passed 8-3-11.)