Michigan-Tribal Energy Program-Keweenaw Bay Indian CommunityCX(s) Applied: A9, A11, B3.1Date: 04/04/2011Location(s): MichiganOffice(s): Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Office of NEPA Policy and Compliance
April 4, 2011
minute read time
CX(s) Applied: A9, A11, B3.1
Date: 04/04/2011
Location(s): Michigan
Office(s): Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) proposes to study the feasibility of wind power at two locations for the purpose of reducing the Tribe?s reliance upon fossil fuels, and this proposed project would also create business opportunities, jobs, and revenue for the community. A consulting firm would be hired to monitor wind capacity and determine the optimal size and design of wind turbines. Another firm would analyze the amount of energy being consumed, how best to covert to renewable energy, and project the cost savings and reductions in emissions and fossil fuel consumption. One wind monitoring tower would be located at the KBIC Industrial Park, and this tower would assess wind for a cluster of buildings. The Baraga Maximum Security Prison, a facility owned by the state of Michigan, and they may wish to pursue a purchase power agreement with Keweenaw Bay. The second wind monitoring tower (located at the Zeba Buffalo Fields site) would be used to assess wind for the fish hatchery and Natural Resources Department offices. This feasibility study would include preliminary engineering, cost evaluations, financing options, and necessary agreement procedures in a comprehensive project plan allowing the tribe to move to the next phase of the project after completion of the study. Training would be provided to tribal members for developing long-term operation and maintenance of the turbines. Met towers (approximately 60 meters) would be purchased and installed at the identified locations. The project has been determined by the Tribal Historic Preservation Office to have a very low potential for the presence of cultural resources. Consultation was initiated with the Fisheries and Wildlife Biologist on endangered species in the area, and it was determined that the project would not jeopardize ?protected resources.? Prior to erecting the met towers, the applicant would prepare a bird impact monitoring plan, as recommended by the Natural Resources Department.