Wind Turbine Assessment

Preliminary Survey of Potential Wind
Project Sites in the Town of Duxbury,

Massachusetts
FSRP0074-A
October 27, 2009
Prepared for:
Massachusetts Technology Collaborative

75 North Drive
Westborough, MA 01581
DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc.

1809 7th Avenue, Suite 900
Seattle, Washington 98101 USA
Phone: (206) 387-4200
Fax: (206) 387-4201
www.globalenergyconcepts.com
www.dnv.com
Preliminary Survey of Potential Wind Project Sites in the Town of Duxbury, Massachusetts FSRP0074-A
Approvals
October 27, 2009

Prepared by Chad Nancarrow Date
October 27, 2009

Review by Michael Drunsic Date
Version Block
Version Release Date Summary of Changes
A October 27, 2009 Original
DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. i October 27, 2009

Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 1
AREA DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................ 2
WIND RESOURCE POTENTIAL AND CLIMATE................................................................ 9
SITING CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................................................... 14
POTENTIAL OFFSET OF ELECTRICAL LOADS AND ELECTRICAL GRID ACCESS ............................ 14
TRANSPORTATION AND SITE ACCESS ......................................................................................... 16
AVIATION CONFLICTS ................................................................................................................ 16
Aviation Systems Report ...................................................................................................... 17
VOR ...................................................................................................................................... 17
Radar ..................................................................................................................................... 18
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND PERMITTING ............................................................................... 20
TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONFLICTS .......................................................................................... 25
COMMUNITY IMPACTS ............................................................................................................... 26
FOUNDATION CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................................................ 26
SETBACK REQUIREMENTS AND PROJECT SCALE ........................................................................ 27
Site 1 - Duxbury High School, Duxbury Middle School, and Alden Elementary School.... 29
Site 2 - Chandler Elementary School.................................................................................... 29
Site 3 - Duxbury Transfer Station, North Hill Golf Course, and Duxbury Town Hall/DPW
Facility .................................................................................................................................. 30
ESTIMATED CAPACITY FACTORS ............................................................................................... 31
CONCLUSIONS ......................................................................................................................... 35
SITE 1 - DUXBURY HIGH SCHOOL, DUXBURY MIDDLE SCHOOL, AND ALDEN ELEMENTARY
SCHOOL ..................................................................................................................................... 35
SITE 2 – CHANDLER ELEMENTARY ............................................................................................ 35
SITE 3 - DUXBURY TRANSFER STATION, NORTH HILL GOLF COURSE, AND DUXBURY TOWN
HALL/DPW FACILITY ................................................................................................................ 36
MET TOWER RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................................. 37
ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................................. 38
DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. ii October 27, 2009

List of Figures
Figure 1. Location of Duxbury, Massachusetts .............................................................................. 4
Figure 2. Topographic Map of the Duxbury Area Showing Potential Development Sites ............ 5
Figure 3. Aerial Image of Site 1 (Duxbury High School, Duxbury Middle School, and Alden
Elementary School)................................................................................................................. 6
Figure 4. Aerial Image of Site 2 (Chandler Elementary School).................................................... 7
Figure 5. Aerial Image of Site 3 (Duxbury Transfer Station, North Hill Golf Course, and
Duxbury Town Hall/DPW Facility)........................................................................................ 8
Figure 6. 70-m New England Wind Map and Proposed Project Locations.................................... 9
Figure 7. 70-m New England Wind Map and Weather Stations .................................................. 11
Figure 8. Wind Rose for Duxbury Area........................................................................................ 13
Figure 9. Location of Transmission Lines .................................................................................... 16
Figure 10. Results of FAA Long-Range Radar Screening Tool................................................... 18
Figure 11. Results of FAA NEXRAD Screening Tool................................................................. 19
Figure 12. Areas of Environmental and Cultural Significance in the Vicinity of
Duxbury High School, Duxbury Middle School, and Alden Elementary School ................ 20
Chandler Elementary ............................................................................................................ 21
Figure 14. Areas of Environmental and Cultural Significance in the Vicinity of Duxbury Transfer
Station, North Hill Golf Course, and Duxbury Town Hall/DPW Facility............................ 21
Figure 15. Important Bird Areas................................................................................................... 24
Figure 16. Location of Microwave Towers in the Area of the Potential Wind Turbine Sites...... 25
Figure 17. Site 2 - Potential Turbine Location ............................................................................. 29
Figure 18. Site 3 – Potential Turbine Locations ........................................................................... 31
Figure 19. Example of Vegetation at Location 1.......................................................................... 37
Figure 20. View of Location 2 from the Northeast....................................................................... 38
List of Tables
Table 1. Wind Speed Estimates Based on New England Wind Map ........................................... 10
Table 2. Summary of Available Wind Data.................................................................................. 12
Table 3. Annual Energy Consumption at the Duxbury Project Sites ........................................... 15
Table 4. Distance of Project Sites to Nearest Microwave Tower ................................................. 25
Table 5. Subsurface Conditions of the Proposed Sites ................................................................. 27
Table 6. Potential Turbine Models................................................................................................ 28
Table 7. Potential Site 3 Turbine Location Coordinates and Elevation........................................ 30
Table 8. New England Wind Map Weibull Shape Factor and Wind Shear Exponent ................. 32
Table 9. Estimated Energy Losses – Single Turbine .................................................................... 33
Table 10. Estimated Net Energy Production at Site 2 – Chandler Elementary ............................ 33
Table 11. Estimated Net Energy Production at Site 3 – Duxbury Transfer Station, North Hill
Golf Course, and Duxbury Town Hall/DPW Facility .......................................................... 34
DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. iii October 27, 2009

Introduction
In May 2009 the Town of Duxbury (the Town) submitted a Municipal Wind Turbine Site Survey
Application to the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC) to request assistance in
evaluating municipally owned property for community-scale wind development potential. MTC
retained DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. (DNV-GEC) to conduct a preliminary feasibility
study on behalf of the Town. On October 8, 2009, DNV-GEC visited properties in Duxbury and
met with members of the Town Energy Committee and members of the Town Administration.
This report summarizes DNV-GEC’s review, identifies potential barriers to development, and
estimates wind resource potential. During this review, DNV-GEC utilized maps, aerial photos,
available wind data, information gathered during the site visit, and DNV-GEC’s in-house
experience and expertise to determine whether sufficient wind development potential exists at
any of the proposed project sites. This high-level report is not intended as a detailed feasibility
study suitable for project financing.
DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 1 October 27, 2009

Area Description
The Town of Duxbury is located in eastern Massachusetts, approximately 30 miles southeast of

Boston off of Highway 3, as shown in Figure 1. According to the Municipal Wind Turbine Site
Survey Application submitted to MTC, the Town identified the following six sites to consider for
potential municipal wind projects:
• Duxbury High School
• Duxbury Middle School and Alden Elementary School
• Chandler Elementary School
• Duxbury Transfer Station
• North Hill Golf Course
• Duxbury Town Hall and Department of Public Works (DPW) Facility
A topographic map of these potential wind turbine sites is shown in Figure 2. As seen on this
figure, the Duxbury High School site and the Duxbury Middle School and Alden Elementary
School site are situated adjacent to each other. Due to their close proximity, the wind resource
and other wind turbine siting considerations at these two sites are expected to be similar. As
such, these sites were grouped together as a single site for further evaluation in this report.
Similarly, the Duxbury Transfer Station site, North Hill Golf Course site, and the Duxbury Town
Hall and DPW site are also situated adjacent to each other. These three sites were also grouped
into a single site for further evaluation. Using these groupings, the following three sites were
considered:
Site 1: Duxbury High School, Duxbury Middle School, and Alden Elementary School.
The combined Duxbury-owned parcel acreage of these properties is approximately 116 acres
(37 acres for the high school and 79 acres for the middle/elementary school parcels). The site
primarily consists of school buildings, parking lots, and sports/recreation fields. Wooded
areas and wetlands are situated near the northern end of the high school parcel. Wooded
areas, a pond, and wetlands (draining to the Bluefish River) are also located near the southern
portion of the middle/elementary school property. The surrounding properties to the west are
primarily residential; the Bluefish River and residences are situated to the east; wetlands are
to the north; and a golf course is adjacent to the south. Elevations within the site range from
approximately 1 m to 15 m above sea level. An aerial image of the site is shown in Figure 3.
Site 2: Chandler Elementary School. This site consists of a parcel totaling approximately
62 acres. The western portion of the parcel contains school buildings, parking lots, and
sports/recreation fields. The eastern portion of this parcel is heavily wooded. The adjacent
parcel to the north-northeast is also owned by Duxbury; however, this parcel is designated as
conservation lands (consisting of wooded areas and wetlands) and is excluded from
development. Properties to the northwest, west, east, and south are primarily residential. The
elevation of this property ranges from approximately 26 m to 36 m above sea level. An aerial
image of the area is shown in Figure 4.

Site 3: Duxbury Transfer Station, North Hill Golf Course, and Duxbury Town
Hall/DPW Facility. This site consists of several adjacent parcels owned by the Town of
Duxbury totaling approximately 386 acres. The parcels which include the golf course and
town hall/DPW facility are mainly contiguous, with the exception of two parcels located
within the interior which are designated as conservation lands (also owned by Duxbury) and
are excluded from development. The transfer station facility is situated across Mayflower
Street from these contiguous parcels, and includes a recycling area, composting area, and a
capped landfill. Aside from the golf course, the site is mostly forested with 15- to 20-m trees,
predominantly conifers. Additionally, there is a hay field in the northeast section of the site,
east of the golf course.
During the site visit, only Site 3 was evaluated for the possible placement of a wind turbine. As
discussed below, Site 1 was eliminated from consideration due to insufficient area for a wind
project of the scale considered in this analysis; and Site 2 was eliminated due to height
restrictions, proximity to an elementary school, and the relative attractiveness of Site 3 compared
to Site 2.

Figure 1. Location of Duxbury, Massachusetts

Duxbury
High School
North Hill
Golf Course
Duxbury Middle School

& Alden Elementary
Town Hall &

Chandler DPW Facility
Elementary Transfer
Station
29 October 2008 Property Boundary

Projection: Massachusetts Mainland State Plane, Meters, NAD83
Digital Elevation Model: United States National Elevation Data database, 30 m resolution
Figure 2. Topographic Map of the Duxbury Area Showing Potential Development Sites

Duxbury
High School
Duxbury Middle School

&
Alden Elementary
Projection: Massachusetts Mainland State Plane, Meters, NAD83 Site Boundaries

Aerial Imagery: Office of Geographic and Environmental Information (MassGIS) Parcel Boundaries
Property Boundary: Environmental Partners Group Inc.
Figure 3. Aerial Image of Site 1 (Duxbury High School, Duxbury Middle School, and Alden
Elementary School)

Conservation Lands
Chandler
Elementary
Projection: Massachusetts Mainland State Plane, Meters, NAD83 Site Boundary

Figure 4. Aerial Image of Site 2 (Chandler Elementary School)

North Hill
Golf Course
Conservation Lands
Town Hall &

DPW Facility
Conservation Lands
Transfer
Station
Projection: Massachusetts Mainland State Plane, Meters, NAD83 Site Boundaries

Figure 5. Aerial Image of Site 3 (Duxbury Transfer Station, North Hill Golf Course, and
Duxbury Town Hall/DPW Facility)

Wind Resource Potential and Climate
Wind resource information is available from the New England Wind Map and a number of
weather stations and meteorological (met) towers in the area. This information has been used to
estimate the range of possible wind speeds in the area; however, the actual wind resource at a
particular location is highly site-specific. In general, to reduce uncertainty in subsequent energy
estimates, DNV-GEC commonly suggests collection of on-site wind resource measurements
prior to installation of wind turbines at a particular location.
The portion of the New England Wind Map that encompasses the sites under evaluation is shown
in Figure 6.
70-m Wind Resource
Duxbury
High School
North Hill
Golf Course
Duxbury Middle School &
Alden Elementary
Town Hall &

Chandler DPW Facility
Elementary Transfer
Station
Site Boundaries
The New England Wind Map was developed by AWS TrueWind and was sponsored by
the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund, Northeast Utilities Systems, and the Projection: UTM, Meters, WGS84
Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. Data Layers: AWS TrueWind, USGS Terraserver
The wind resource estimates were created using TrueWind’s MesoMap®, a mesoscale
atmospheric simulation system, at a spatial grid resolution of 200 meters. Estimates
should be confirmed by direct measurement according to wind industry standards.
Figure 6. 70-m New England Wind Map and Proposed Project Locations
The estimated wind resource range at each site, based on the New England Wind Map, including
AWS Truewind’s estimated error of ±0.6 m/s, is provided in Table 1.

Table 1. Wind Speed Estimates Based on New England Wind Map
Coordinates1 Estimated Annual

Wind Speed Range
(MA State Plane Meters, NAD83) at 70 m above
Site Easting Northing ground level (m/s) Class2 Rating
1. High School,
Middle School, and 267885 866722 5.7 to 7.3 2 Marginal
Alden Elementary
2. Chandler
263381 865298 5.7 to 7.1 2 Marginal
Elementary
3. Transfer Station,
Golf Course, Town 266381 865742 5.7 to 7.2 2 Marginal
Hall/DPW
[1] Coordinates at approximately the center of the site
[2] Based on the U.S. Department of Energy National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Wind Power Classification
System for wind power densities at 50 m
The locations of weather stations and meteorological towers in close proximity to the proposed
project sites are shown in Figure 7. Data from the Marshfield, Plymouth, Taunton, and Milton
airport weather stations are maintained by the National Climatic Data Center. Data loggers at
these stations record hourly wind speed and direction data at a height of 10 m (33 ft) above
ground level. Since airports are typically placed in relatively sheltered locations in an area, wind
data from these stations are likely to represent the lower end of the potential wind resource range
in the area. Data from Plymouth and Kingston were obtained from met towers installed and
maintained by the University of Massachusetts at Amherst Renewable Energy Research Lab
(RERL). Data loggers at these towers recorded 10-minute wind speed and direction data at
various heights above ground level. Met towers are installed for the purpose of determining the
feasibility of a wind energy project; therefore, the towers are typically placed in well-exposed
locations and are likely to represent the high end of the potential wind resource range in the area.
Although the data from the RERL met tower sites have not been adjusted to account for long-
term variations in the wind resource, data from the airport weather stations indicate that the
standard deviation of the annual average wind speeds in the Duxbury area is typically about 4%.
Therefore, the long-term average wind speed at these locations may be up to 4% higher or lower
than the average wind speed from the measurement period. Wind data for each area weather
station are summarized in Table 2.

70-m Wind Resource
ASOS & RERL Stations
Site Boundaries
The New England Wind Map was

developed by AWS TrueWind and was
sponsored by the Connecticut Clean
Energy Fund, Northeast Utilities
Systems, and the Massachusetts
Technology Collaborative.
The wind resource estimates were
created using TrueWind’s MesoMap®,
a mesoscale atmospheric simulation
system, at a spatial grid resolution of
200 meters. Estimates should be
confirmed by direct measurement
according to wind industry standards.
Projection: UTM, meters, WGS84

Data Layers: AWS TrueWind, USGS Terraserver
Figure 7. 70-m New England Wind Map and Weather Stations

Table 2. Summary of Available Wind Data
Coordinates
(MA State Plane Meters, Average
NAD83) Elevation Measurement Wind Speed Wind
Location Easting Northing (m) Height (m) (m/s) Class3
Plymouth1 270434 854345 41 50 5.6 2
1
Kingston 265023 858966 N/A 49 5.8 2
Marshfield
268492 872287 3 10 2.9 2
(GHG)2
Plymouth
263966 851362 45 10 3.4 2
(PYM)2
Taunton
239761 847408 13 10 2.7 1
(TAN)2
Milton
231790 884688 194 10 5.7 3
(MQE)2
[1] Source: University of Massachusetts Amherst Renewable Energy Research Laboratory, based on a 1-year period
of measurement. DNV-GEC has not independently verified the values.
[2] Source: National Climatic Data Center, based on a period of measurement of 7 to 11 years, except for the
Marshfield station (based on 2 years of data only)
[3] Based on the U.S. Department of Energy National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Wind Power Classification
System for wind power densities at 50 m
Based on the available wind data, DNV-GEC believes that the New England Wind Map provides
a reasonable range of average wind speeds at each of the sites under evaluation (see Table 1).
The wind rose for Duxbury according to the New England Wind Map is shown in Figure 8. The
wind rose indicates that the prevailing winds are from the south-southwest. The wind rose at the
Plymouth RERL station also indicates a south-southwest prevailing wind direction, and the wind
rose at the Kingston RERL station indicates prevailing winds from the southwest. Thus, there is
acceptable agreement between the wind map and local observations confirming a general south-
southwest prevailing wind direction.

N
NNW 20%
NNE
NW 15% NE
10%
WNW ENE
5%
W 0% E
WSW ESE
SW SE
SSW SSE
S
Time Pow er
Figure 8. Wind Rose for Duxbury Area

(Source: New England Wind Map)

Siting Considerations
Potential Offset of Electrical Loads and Electrical Grid Access

Typically, the most cost-effective development scenario for municipally owned wind projects is
net metering. Based on new net metering provisions outlined in the Green Communities Act,
signed into law on July 2, 2008, and detailed in final regulations issued by the Massachusetts
Department of Public Utilities (DPU) on June 26, 2009, net excess electricity generated during a
given month by a municipally, governmentally, or privately owned wind power project rated at
2 MW or less can be credited to the customer’s next monthly utility bill at the retail rate, inclusive
of the applicable default service kWh charge, transmission kWh charge, and transition kWh
charge. Municipally and governmentally owned or operated wind projects receive two additional
provisions: a credit for the distribution kWh component of the retail rate and the ability to net
meter on a per unit basis, rather than per facility.
Net metering allows credits to be carried forward from month to month. Net metering in
Massachusetts also allows the energy output from a qualifying wind power project to be credited
towards several different loads with multiple utility meters, as long as the meters are under the
same distribution company and located in the same ISO-NE load zone. Additionally, the net
metering facility must be installed on the host customer’s side of the meter.
On August 20, 2009, DPU issued an order approving a model net metering tariff to guide the
distribution companies’ implementation of the net metering regulations. Conforming net
metering tariffs have been filed by the distribution companies and are expected to go into effect
on December 1, 2009, pending review and approval by DPU. Certain aspects of the net metering
tariffs are still undefined. Of particular importance is the rate at which net metering facilities are
credited for net excess generation as the applicable rate can have a dramatic impact on the
financial viability of a project. It is likely that this issue will be resolved within the next few
months but, until then, this remains an area of uncertainty for net metering projects. The
applicable tariff should be reviewed upon approval.
As an alternative to net metering, wind-generated electricity could be sold directly to the

wholesale market through a power purchase agreement. However, the wholesale market rate is
likely to be significantly less than the retail rate and will lead to a longer payback period than if
the wind-generated electricity were to be used on site to displace retail electric rates. The sale of
renewable energy credits (REC), available for either a net metering or wholesale market
purchase scenario, may help to improve project economics; however, the long-term market for
RECs is highly uncertain. Therefore, net metering is likely to be the preferred approach for
community-scale projects less than 2 MW.
Each of the sites under consideration in this report has on-site load that could provide a host
meter for a net metering facility. According to the Municipal Site Survey Application, Duxbury
Middle School/Alden Elementary consumes the greatest amount of energy, while the Duxbury
Transfer Station consumes the least (see Table 3). Consumption data were not submitted for the
North Hill Golf Course.

Table 3. Annual Energy Consumption at the Duxbury Project Sites

Annual Energy
Consumption
Site (MWh)
Duxbury High School 1,431
Duxbury Middle School & Alden Elementary 1,860
Chandler Elementary 664
Duxbury Transfer Station 98
1
North Hill Golf Course N/A
Duxbury Town Hall/DPW Facility 235
2
Total 4,288
[1] Energy consumption not provided as part of the Municipal Wind
Turbine Site Survey Application.
[2] Does not include North Hill Golf Course.
In addition to net metering, other state or federal incentives may be available for a municipally
owned project, which should be evaluated to determine the economic feasibility of development.
Access to high-voltage transmission lines is a critical component of wind project development.

Publicly available data regarding transmission lines indicate the nearest lines (115 kV) are
located approximately 1.5 kilometers northwest of the project sites, as shown in Figure 9.
However, a community scale project would likely interconnect to the local distribution grid,
which is at a lower voltage. Interconnection to a three-phase power line would be required for a
wind project of the scale being considered in this report. If any of the projects move forward,
DNV-GEC recommends that the interconnection and transmission systems be analyzed to
determine where power could be delivered into the grid and what constraints, if any, might exist.
The net metering tariff for the local utility will likely include provisions regarding
interconnection requirements.

Potential Wind
Project Site
Transmission
Line (115 kV)

Data Layer Source: Ventyx (transmission lines); Office of Geographic and Environmental Information (MassGIS)
Figure 9. Location of Transmission Lines
Transportation and Site Access

Reasonable access to a potential development area is necessary in order to receive turbine and
tower components and for the mobilization of cranes and other construction equipment.
From Boston, the Town of Duxbury can be reached by Interstate Highway 93 to State Highway
3. All sites under consideration are 4 miles or less from the State Route 3 and can be reached via
a combination of State Route 14 or State Route 3A, and local roads. If the sites are accessed from
the north via Route 14, there is a rotary at the intersection of Route 14 and Lincoln Road just east
of the Route 3 Exit 11 interchange that may pose challenges for delivering large turbine
components or construction equipment. Delivery of components or equipment may be less
challenging from the south via Route 3A.
The accessibility of each site for the delivery and construction of a wind turbine should be
evaluated further if economic analysis indicates benefits of turbine development.
Aviation Conflicts
Wind project sites located close to airports must be installed in a manner that meets federal air
space regulations. The actual effect of a project on air navigation is evaluated on a case-by-case
basis and in consultation with local regulators. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) requires that a Notice of Proposed Construction (Form 7460-1) be filed for the
construction of any object that would extend more than 200 ft above ground level. For each filed
project, the FAA undertakes an initial aeronautical study and issues either a Determination of No
Hazard to Air Navigation (DNH) or a Notice of Presumed Hazard (NPH). If an NPH is issued,

the FAA will conduct a more extensive analysis to evaluate impacts on air operations. Other
local air space regulations may also apply.
Aviation Systems Report

As an initial step in identifying potential airspace and navigation conflicts, MTC contracted
Aviations Systems, Inc. (ASI) to complete an airspace obstruction evaluation. According to the
ASI report dated July 6, 2009, the nearest air facility of concern is Marshfield Municipal Harlow
Field; its Runway 06 is located approximately 3.43 nautical miles (NM) from the centerpoint of
ASI’s 2NM search area. (Note, ASI’s search area centerpoint is located at Lat+42°02'33.36"/
Lon-70°42'21.12" NAD83, near the North Hill Golf Course.) The report also contains a
“Maximum Height” plot which divided the search area into sectors showing the maximum above
mean sea level (AMSL) height limitations imposed by aircraft and instrument procedures,
enroute airways, and radar vectoring altitudes affecting the sector. Based on coordinates
provided in the Municipal Site Survey Application, ASI determined the following maximum
height limitations for turbines that could be erected without incurring a “Hazard Determination”
from the FAA (calculated in accordance with FAR Part 77 and FAA Orders 7400.2 and
8260.3B):
• Duxbury High School: limited to 324 ft (98.8 m) above ground level (AGL) by the traffic
pattern
• Duxbury Middle School and Alden Elementary School: limited to 349 ft (106.3 m) AGL
by the traffic pattern
• Chandler Elementary School: limited to 170 ft (51.8 m) AGL by the non-directional
beacon (NDB) primary area
• Duxbury Transfer Station: should be approved at 397 ft (121 m) AGL
• North Hill Golf Course: limited to 202 ft (61.6 m) AGL by the NDB primary area
• Duxbury Town Hall/DPW Facility: should be approved at 397 ft (121 m) AGL
The ASI report also indicates that the North Truro Long Range Radar Site is within 60 NM
(29.19 NM east) of the search area centerpoint and that impact to Air Defense and Homeland
Security radars is likely. Furthermore, the report concludes that impact is likely to WSR-88D
weather radar operations as the turbines will likely be in the radar’s line of sight. As such, the
report recommends that further radar impact study may be advisable.
VOR
FAA rules prevent a structure the size of a typical utility-scale wind turbine from being erected
within at least 0.62 mi (1 km) of a VHF Omni-directional Radio Range (VOR) station.1 In DNV-
GEC’s experience, these FAA-operated radio navigation systems have proven to be a fatal flaw
when in close proximity to a proposed wind development site. Due to the omni-directional nature
of the signals transmitted by these navigation aids, tall structures, such as the turbine towers, in
the vicinity of the VOR may interfere with signal transmittal. DNV-GEC has identified VOR
1
Aviation Systems Inc. “Airspace Obstruction and Electromagnetic Interference Considerations for Wind Power
Projects.” January 2007. Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.
<http://www.mtpc.org/renewableenergy/Community_Wind/FAA/AirspaceJan2007.pdf>

stations located approximately 25 mi north and 36 mi east of Duxbury. Since these VOR
facilities are located a sufficient distance from the sites, DNV-GEC does not anticipate that these
facilities will impact turbine development at any of the sites under consideration.
Radar
To supplement the evaluation completed by ASI, DNV-GEC also assessed the potential
interferences with radar systems. DNV-GEC utilized the FAA online Long-Range Radar Tool
which provides a preliminary estimate of the effect of a wind power project on Air Defense and
Homeland Security radar. As shown in Figure 10, the area including and surrounding the Town
are flagged as “yellow” and “red,” which are defined as likely (“yellow”) and highly likely
(“red”) to impact Air Defense and Homeland Security radars. Although these designations do not
necessarily prohibit wind power development at the sites under consideration, a more detailed
aeronautical study, including potential impacts on other types of radar, is required to determine
the extent of the impact and possible mitigation strategies.
Figure 10. Results of FAA Long-Range Radar Screening Tool

The FAA online NEXRAD (Next Generation Weather Service Radars) tool provides a
preliminary estimate of the effect of a wind power project on weather radar. As shown in
Figure 11, the area in and surrounding the Town is flagged as “yellow,” which is defined as
likely to impact weather radar operations and wind turbine electronics. The NEXRAD Program
guideline advises that the best mitigation technique is to avoid locating wind turbines in the
radar-line-of-sight of a NEXRAD unit. This mitigation strategy may be achieved by distance,
terrain masking, or terrain relief and requires case-by-case analysis. The NEXRAD Program
administrators would prefer the wind energy industry provide information on planned projects,
new or expansions, to NEXRAD Program in advance. Due to the potential small-scale nature of
projects in Duxbury, DNV-GEC does not anticipate that the “yellow” designation will prohibit
development; however, DNV-GEC recommends consultation with NEXRAD personnel prior to
development.
Figure 11. Results of FAA NEXRAD Screening Tool

Environmental Issues and Permitting

DNV-GEC completed a geographic information system (GIS) analysis to determine the location
of sensitive habitat relative to the proposed wind project sites. Results of the GIS analysis are
shown in Figure 12 through Figure 14.
Protected & Recreational

Open Space
National Wetlands
Inventory
Priority Habitat for Rare
Species
Core Habitat
Scenic Landscape
State Register of Historic

Places
Site Boundaries

Data Layer Source: Office of Geographic and Environmental Information (MassGIS)

Duxbury High School, Duxbury Middle School, and Alden Elementary School


Open Space
National Wetlands
Inventory
Species
Core Habitat
Scenic Landscape

Places
Site Boundaries


Chandler Elementary

Open Space
National Wetlands
Inventory
Species
Core Habitat
Scenic Landscape

Places
Site Boundaries

Figure 14. Areas of Environmental and Cultural Significance in the Vicinity of Duxbury
Transfer Station, North Hill Golf Course, and Duxbury Town Hall/DPW Facility

Each environmental and cultural data layer described below was obtained from the
Massachusetts Office of Geographic and Environmental Information (MassGIS). These data
layers are made available to the public for planning purposes only. More detailed site-specific
analyses should be completed to verify the accuracy of these data layers.
• Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC), layer last updated March 2007 –
ACEC are designated by the Secretary of Environmental Affairs as “places that receive
special recognition because of the quality, uniqueness and significance of their natural
and cultural resources.” The Hockomock Swamp and the Canoe River Aquifer,
designated as ACEC, are located approximately 25 km west of the properties of interest.
• NHESP BioMap Core Habitat, layer last updated June 2002 – Core Habitat areas are
identified by the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) of the
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife as areas that provide “the most viable
habitat for rare species and natural communities in Massachusetts.” As shown in
Figure 12 through Figure 14, the northern tip of Site 1 (High School, Middle School, and
Alden Elementary) and approximately the southern two-thirds of Site 3 (Transfer Station,
Golf Course, and Town Hall) are designated as Core Habitat. Large areas north and east
of Site 1 and west of Site 3 also have this designation. Although this designation may not
necessarily prohibit wind development, a proposed project may require an increased level
of environmental review. Consultation with NHESP is recommended to verify this
designation and to determine potential impacts and mitigation strategies.
• NHESP Priority Habitats for Rare Species, layer last updated September 2006 –
Priority Habitats are identified based on observations documented within the last 25 years
in the database of the NHESP, as published in the 12th Edition of the Massachusetts
Natural Heritage Atlas. The northern and southern ends of Site 1 and approximately the
western half and the southeastern edge of Site 3 are designated as Priority Habitats.
Significant amounts of land surrounding the project sites also have this designation.
Although this designation may not necessarily prohibit wind development, a proposed
project may require an increased level of environmental review. Consultation with
NHESP is recommended to verify this designation and to determine potential impacts and
mitigation strategies.
• National Wetlands Inventory (NWI), layer last updated October 2007 – The NWI data
set was created by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to identify the approximate location
and characteristics of wetlands and deepwater habitats. All of the properties of interest
contain areas designated as wetlands within the property boundaries, including the
northern and southern ends of Site 1, a portion within Site 2 near the northeastern end,
and numerous areas within the boundaries of Site 3. Several wetlands areas are also
present adjacent to the subject properties. Although this designation may not necessarily
prohibit wind development, a proposed project may require an increased level of
environmental review.
• Protected and Recreational Open Space, layer last updated January 2007 – This data
layer includes conservation land and outdoor recreation facilities, including parkways,
town parks, playing fields, and walking trails owned by federal, state, county, municipal,
and nonprofit enterprises. As shown in Figure 12 through Figure 14, nearly all of the land
within the boundaries of each site is designated as Protected and Recreational Open

Space. Although this designation may not necessarily prohibit wind development, a
proposed project may require an increased level of community review. Areas within Site
3 have an active trail system that is used for hiking and biking. Impacts of a wind project
on this recreational resource may pose a significant risk to development. It should be
noted that an error in the MassGIS Protected and Recreational Open Space data file
causes the layer to appear misaligned in some areas. This issue has been taken into
account in DNV-GEC’s setback analysis.
• Scenic Landscapes, layer last updated July 1999 – Scenic landscapes are identified by
the Massachusetts Landscape Inventory Project in the Department of Conservation and
Recreation. Portions of Site 1 near the northern and southeastern ends are designated as
Scenic Landscapes. Sites 2 and 3 do not contain areas with this designation. Although
this designation may not necessarily prohibit wind development, a proposed project may
require an increased level of environmental review.
• State Register of Historic Places, layer last updated January 2000 – This data layer,
maintained by the Massachusetts Historical Commission, denotes locations or boundaries
of significant historic properties and sites with legal designations under several specific
local, state, and federal statutes. The closest Historic Place is the Old Shipbuilder’s
Historic District, located approximately 0.3 km from Site 1, 1.3 km from Site 3, and over
4 km from Site 2.
A map of Important Bird Areas on the south shore of Massachusetts was obtained from the
Massachusetts Audubon Society as shown in Figure 15. An Important Bird Area is a site that
provides essential habitat to one or more species of breeding, wintering, or migrating birds.
These sites typically support high-priority species, large concentrations of birds, exceptional bird
habitat or have substantial research or educational value. The potential project sites are located
near the Plymouth and Duxbury Bays which are each designated as an Important Bird Area for
various species of migratory land birds, water fowl, and seabirds. Consultation with the
Massachusetts Audubon Society is recommended to determine impacts and mitigation strategies
related to a potential wind project in the area.

Figure 15. Important Bird Areas
Wind power projects on public land, such as at the Duxbury sites, might also be affected by
Article 97. This amendment to the Massachusetts’ Constitution, passed by voters in 1972, grants
its citizens specific environmental rights on publicly owned land equivalent to those of speech
and worship. The law requires that any land or easements taken or acquired by the state for
natural resource purposes shall not be used for other purposes unless the Massachusetts
legislature approves the change by a two-thirds vote. The extent to which this law would affect
development at the Duxbury sites is not clear at this time. DNV-GEC recommends further
investigation into the Town’s articles of acquisition for the properties under consideration to
determine whether the properties were acquired for natural resource purposes.
Additionally, the Site Assessment Application identified other potential land use restrictions at
each site. Site 1 is within two watersheds: the Black River Watershed (Duxbury High School)
and the Bluefish River Watershed (Duxbury Middle School and Alden Elementary School). Site
2 is designated as a Zone 2 aquifer protection area2. Although this may not prohibit wind
development, a proposed project may require an increased level of environmental review.
The permitting process and implications of each of these environmental designations is not
clearly defined and can vary from site to site. A site-specific environmental survey is
recommended in order to address potential conflicts.
2
A Zone 2 aquifer protection area is defined as the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
approved area of an aquifer which contributes water to a well under the most severe pumping and recharge
conditions that can be realistically anticipated as defined in 310 CMR 22.00.

Telecommunications Conflicts
Wind turbines, like all tall structures, can create interference or degradation of certain
communication signals if they are located in the line-of-sight of any communications equipment
such as microwave, radio, or satellite dishes. A number of microwave communication stations
are located around the potential development areas, as seen in Figure 16. Table 4 provides the
approximate distance from the project site boundary to the nearest microwave communication
station. Analysis of microwave line-of-sight is beyond the scope of this review. Further analysis
is required, which would take into account the proposed turbine dimensions, turbine location,
and transmittal paths of various types of communication signals in the area.
Potential Wind
Project Site
Microwave
Tower

Data Layer Source: Federal Communications Commission, July 2007; Office of Geographic and Environmental
Information (MassGIS)
Figure 16. Location of Microwave Towers in the Area of the Potential Wind Turbine Sites
Table 4. Distance of Project Sites to Nearest Microwave Tower

Distance to Nearest
Microwave Tower
Site (km)
High School, Middle School, and Alden Elementary 6.8
Chandler Elementary 5.2
Transfer Station, Golf Course, Town Hall/DPW 5.8

Community Impacts
Primary social impacts of a wind turbine project on a community include noise from the wind
turbine blades and generator and the visual impact of the wind turbine on the landscape.
Negative social impacts have the potential to inhibit or terminate wind project development, and
the costs and time required for development may increase significantly.
When operating, wind turbines produce a “swishing” or “whooshing” sound as their rotating
blades encounter turbulence in the passing air, as well as some sounds from the mechanical parts
such as the gearbox, generator, and cooling fans. Wind turbines are typically quiet enough for
people to hold a normal conversation while standing at the base of the tower. If mechanical
sounds are significant, it usually means something in the nacelle needs maintenance or repair. At
a distance, the sounds generated by a wind turbine are typically masked by the “background
noise” of winds blowing through trees or moving around obstacles.
Massachusetts state regulations allow for an increase in noise levels of up to 10 dB over normal
background levels at the property boundary. To minimize the noise impact of a project, a wind
turbine should be placed at a distance from the property boundary of approximately 1.5 to
4 times the hub height of the turbine, depending on the background noise levels at the site,
terrain, and the turbine size and type. Due to this variability in sound impact setbacks, DNV-
GEC recommends a sound impact study be performed prior to development. For the purposes of
this study, DNV-GEC has taken a minimum noise setback of 1.5 times the turbine tip height
from residences and other occupied structures into account when evaluating the potential project
scale at each site. There are several residences located on Hounds Ditch Lane and along Tremont
Street that may potentially be impacted by noise from a wind project at Site 3.
The proposed Cape Wind project in Nantucket Sound, approximately 45 miles southeast of the
potential Duxbury project sites, has received significant public opposition due to concerns about
the aesthetic impact on the landscape. Although a wind project at the Duxbury project sites
would be much smaller in scale, a wind turbine may be highly visible and visual concerns might
cause opposition to the project. Photo simulations of a potential wind project, as well as
informational community meetings, may help to allay these concerns.
Another potential community impact is shadow flicker that can be generated by the rotating
blades of a wind turbine during certain ambient lighting conditions. The shadow of the rotating
blades can cause an annoyance until the sun changes position in the sky. Due to the presence of
residential parcels adjacent to the each of the sites, DNV-GEC recommends a shadow flicker
analysis be completed once turbine dimensions and locations are specified.
Foundation Considerations
The subsurface conditions of the proposed Duxbury sites as described in the Municipal Wind
Turbine Site Survey Application to MTC are summarized in Table 5.

Table 5. Subsurface Conditions of the Proposed Sites

Site Subsurface Conditions
Duxbury High School sandy
Duxbury Middle School & Alden
sand and clay
Elementary
Chandler Elementary sandy
Duxbury Transfer Station soil/sandy
North Hill Golf Course soil/sandy
Duxbury Town Hall/DPW Facility soil/sandy
Of the sites under consideration, the Transfer Station is the only site with known subsurface
conditions that could significantly impact the design and cost of a wind turbine foundation.
According to the Municipal Wind Turbine Site Survey Application, a portion of the Transfer
Station is a capped landfill upon which no construction shall be done.
Setback Requirements and Project Scale

The Town of Duxbury currently has draft bylaws specifically addressing construction and
setback restrictions for wind facilities. The bylaws state that utility-scale, community-scale,
residential, private and small scale wind facilities shall not be constructed in the following
zoning districts: Flood Hazard Overlay District; Dunes Protection District; and Wetlands
Protection Overlay District. The bylaws also state that community-scale and utility-scale wind
facilities shall be no higher than 250 ft (76.2 m) above the current grade of the land. The bylaws
define the height of a wind turbine as the distance measured from natural grade to the tip of the
rotor blade at its highest point. Regarding setbacks, the draft bylaws state the following:
“Utility Scale and Community Scale Wind Turbines shall be set back a minimum
distance equal to 1.1 times the overall height of the wind turbine from the nearest
property line and private or public way and a minimum distance equal to 2 times
the overall height of the wind turbine from the nearest existing residential or
commercial structure. Residential, Private & Small Scale Wind Turbines shall be
set back a minimum distance equal to 1.1 times the overall height of the wind
turbine from the nearest property line and private or public way, but can be
within the minimum distance of 2 times the overall height of the wind turbine from
the nearest existing residential or commercial structure, provided that the nearest
existing residential or commercial structure is owned by the resident or private
property owner seeking to permit the Wind Turbine. The setback zone for Utility
Scale, Community Scale, and Residential, Private & Small Scale Wind Turbines
can fall within the limits of Wetlands Protection Overlay and the Flood Hazard
Overlay Districts.”
DNV-GEC has performed a preliminary analysis of available developable land and project scale
at the potential project sites. For this analysis, DNV-GEC generated a list of utility-sized turbines
that might be used at these sites. Table 6 presents a range of potential turbine models, with
corresponding dimensions, used in our evaluation of potential project sizes. In accordance with
the draft bylaws, only models with maximum tip heights (MTH) less than 250 ft (76.2 m) are

listed. The availability of these turbine models in small quantity orders would need to be
evaluated, should a detailed feasibility study be performed.
Table 6. Potential Turbine Models

Rated Rotor Hub Maximum
Capacity Diameter Height Tip Height
Turbine Model (kW) (m) (m) (m)
Americas Wind Energy AWE 52-900 900 52 50 76
Elecon Turbowinds T-600-48DS 600 48 50 74
Enertech E-48 600 48 50 74
Vestas RRB PS600 600 47 50 73.5
Aeronautica Norwin 29-225 225 29 40 54.5
Aeronautica Norwin 47-750 750 47 50 73.5
Northern Power Systems NW100/21 100 21 30/37 40.5/48.5
In addition to the setbacks specified in the draft bylaws described above, DNV-GEC
recommends other safety setbacks be applied. Wind turbines, like other forms of energy
generating equipment, are operating pieces of machinery that can experience catastrophic
failures. Although very rare, the potential for fire, structural failure, or control system failure
must be considered in evaluating potential project risks. DNV-GEC considers elementary,
middle, and high school campuses, like other areas highly frequented by the public (sports fields
and recreation areas), to be particularly sensitive locations for potential wind turbine placement
from a safety and setback perspective. With these factors in mind, DNV-GEC evaluated the
school properties using a safety setback of at least 2 times the MTH from school buildings,
parking lots, sports fields, and other school facilities. At the Transfer Station, Golf Course, and
Town Hall/DPW sites, where site access is more controlled, DNV-GEC used a safety setback
equivalent to at least 1.5 times the turbine MTH from site use areas and facilities as well as
nearby residences. In all cases, this safety setback area should be clear of occupied buildings,
roads, or other areas frequented by the public and on-site personnel.
As indicated in the draft bylaws, turbines may not be placed in designated wetlands; however,
there are no minimum setbacks required from these areas.
As stated previously, Massachusetts state regulations allow for an increase in noise levels
resulting from a wind turbine of up to 10 dB over normal background levels at the property
boundary. As specified in the draft bylaws, a minimum property boundary setback of 1.1 times
the MTH has been applied in this analysis; however, a sound impact study should be performed
prior to development.
The potential scale of each site under consideration was evaluated by applying the setbacks
discussed above in conjunction with the maximum height restrictions previously identified by
ASI in the Aviation Conflicts Section. Following is a summary of each site’s potential scale
based on our review of aerial imagery, GIS layers, and the parcel boundaries.

Site 1 - Duxbury High School, Duxbury Middle School, and Alden Elementary
School
ASI determined that a turbine placed near the high school would be limited to 98.8 m AGL, and
a turbine placed near the middle school/elementary property would be limited to 106.3 m AGL.
As such, any of the potential turbine models listed in Table 6 may be appropriate. Using 76 m as
the MTH, sufficient area exists at Site 1 to accommodate a 100 to 900 kW scale turbine while
maintaining the minimum setback distance of 1.1 times the MTH (83.6 m) from the site property
boundaries. However, the recommended minimum safety setback distance of 2 times the MTH
(152 m) from the school buildings and recreational fields would not be satisfied. The potential
development area is further limited by the land designated as wetlands, which occupies most of
the northern and southern ends of the site (as shown in Figure 12). As such, DNV-GEC does not
recommend further evaluation of Site 1.
Site 2 - Chandler Elementary School

ASI determined that a turbine placed near the Chandler Elementary School would be limited to a
maximum height of approximately 52 m AGL. As such, the 100 kW Northern Power Systems
NW100/21 turbine with 48.5-m MTH was evaluated for this property. Sufficient area exists at
Chandler Elementary School to support this 100kW turbine located outside of the designated
wetlands while maintaining the minimum setback distances from the adjacent properties,
buildings, and school facilities. A potential wind turbine location with associated setbacks is
illustrated in Figure 17.
National Wetlands
Inventory
48.5-m MTH x 1.1
Property Boundary
Setback
48.5-m MTH x 2 Safety
Setback from Buildings
and School Facilities
Potential Turbine
Location
Site Boundaries

Figure 17. Site 2 - Potential Turbine Location

The proposed wind turbine location was selected based on currently available information on the
project boundary and setback requirements. Additional factors may influence the final wind
turbine location, such as a surveyor’s verification of the property boundary, subsurface
conditions, constructability of the site, environmental permitting, FAA restrictions, conflicts with
communications equipment, noise and shadow flicker impact analysis, and others.
Site 3 - Duxbury Transfer Station, North Hill Golf Course, and Duxbury Town
Hall/DPW Facility
ASI determined that a turbine placed by the north end of the site near the golf course would be
limited to 61.6 m AGL and would linearly increase in height to 121 m AGL toward the south end
of the site near the town hall and transfer station. Given a turbine would likely be placed
somewhere between these ends, DNV-GEC assumed the use of a turbine with 76-m MTH for
this evaluation (i.e., the maximum height per the draft bylaws). Using this MTH, sufficient area
exists within Site 3 to support multiple turbine locations outside of the designated conservation
areas and wetlands while maintaining the minimum setback distances from the adjacent
properties, buildings, and site facilities. According to the Municipal Wind Turbine Site Survey
Application, the Town is currently interested in pursuing a single turbine project. However, this
site may be able to support multiple turbines. Based on the current land use at Site 3, however,
community reaction to multiple turbines at the site may be negative due to the impact on
recreation activities on the property. A single turbine project would likely have less impact on
the community and the environment and, therefore, be more likely to be feasible for this site.
During the site visit, two potential turbine locations were identified as shown in Figure 18. The
approximate coordinates and elevation for these locations are shown in Table 7. Both locations
meet the setback parameters used in this assessment. Location 1 is in a forested area just west of
the DPW Facility, while Location 2 is near the center of a clearing just east of the dumping area
adjacent to the North Hill Golf Course. Although Location 1 is at a higher elevation and may
have a slightly better wind resource, a wind turbine at Location 2 would likely have less of an
impact on the recreational use of the property.
Table 7. Potential Site 3 Turbine Location Coordinates and Elevation

Coordinates
(MA State Plane Meters, NAD83)
Location Easting Northing Elevation (m)
Location 1 266698 865628 22
Location 2 266397 866099 13

National Wetlands
Inventory
76-m MTH x 1.1
Property Boundary
Setback
76-m MTH x 1.5 Safety
Setback from Site Use
Areas and Facilities
Potential Turbine
Location
Site Boundaries

Figure 18. Site 3 – Potential Turbine Locations
The proposed turbine locations were selected based on currently available information on the
project boundary and setback requirements. Additional factors may influence the final wind
turbine location, such as a surveyor’s verification of the property boundary, subsurface
conditions, constructability of the site, environmental permitting, FAA restrictions, conflicts with
communications equipment, noise and shadow flicker impact analysis, and others.
Estimated Capacity Factors

Based on an evaluation of developable area, aviation height restrictions, and setback
requirements, DNV-GEC has estimated the scale of a turbine that each site could accommodate,
and calculated the estimated net annual energy production for sample turbine models. As an
example and for the purposes of this report, DNV-GEC calculated the estimated net annual
energy production for 100 kW to 900 kW turbines as appropriate for Sites 2 and 3. Energy was
estimated at each site for a single turbine project.
To calculate annual energy production, DNV-GEC used an estimated annual average wind speed
range based on the New England Wind Map at a 70-m measurement height, given in Figure 6.
The New England Wind Map provides an estimated Weibull shape factor for each site that was
used to create an annual wind speed frequency distribution. The wind speeds were adjusted to the

hub heights using the power law3 and an estimated wind shear exponent, calculated from the
average annual wind speeds at various heights provided by the New England Wind Map. The
estimated Weibull shape factor and calculated wind shear exponent for each site is given in
Table 8. Energy calculations are based on the manufacturer-provided power curves at the
standard air density of 1.225 kg/m3.
Table 8. New England Wind Map Weibull Shape Factor and Wind Shear Exponent
Weibull Shape Estimated

Factor (k) Shear (α)
Site [no units] [no units]
Site 2 – Chandler Elementary 2.41 0.22
Site 3 – Transfer Station, Golf
2.38 0.22
Course, Town Hall/DPW Facility
DNV-GEC estimates aggregate energy losses of 15% for single turbine projects, as listed in
Table 9. Each loss category is independent; therefore, losses are combined by multiplying each
energy retention percentage. Availability losses account for scheduled and unscheduled
maintenance, faults, and downtime for troubleshooting. Each of these events reduces the time
that the turbine is available to generate energy and, therefore, each is considered a loss.
Transformer and line losses include line losses in the transmission lines between the turbines and
the grid connection point and in the on-site distribution system and transformers. Transformer
and line losses are expected to be low at the sites because of the close proximity of the wind
turbine(s) to the likely interconnection point. Control system and power curve losses account for
times when the automated operation of the turbine lags frequent changes in wind speed or
direction, causing the turbine to not perform exactly as predicted by the manufacturer’s power
curve. Blade soiling, which occurs with the accumulation of dirt, insects, or ice, impacts the
aerodynamics of the blades, thus lowering production. Wake losses refer to lost energy
production caused by nearby obstructions or by turbines located downwind of other turbines
when more than one turbine is present at a site.
3
The power law is defined by the equation VZ = VR (HZ/HR)α , where VZ and VR are wind speeds at the turbine hub
height HZ and the measurement height HR, respectively (above ground level), and α is the dimensionless wind shear
exponent. This is a typical method of describing the extent to which wind speeds change with increasing height
above the ground.

Table 9. Estimated Energy Losses – Single Turbine

Energy Loss Description Energy Losses
Availability 6%
Transformer/Electric Line 1%
Turbulence/Control System 2%
Blade Soiling/Degradation 2%
Icing/Weather 3%
Power Curve 2%
Wake 0%
Total Losses 15%
The energy production and capacity factor estimates for different wind turbine options are listed
in Table 10 and Table 11 for Site 2 and Site 3, respectively. These figures represent our current
best estimate of the range of P504 values. The estimates rely primarily on the estimated range of
wind speeds at the sites, which can have a high degree of uncertainty. Other sources of
uncertainty, such as annual variability in the wind resource, system energy losses, the shape of
the wind frequency distribution, and other factors are not included in this preliminary analysis
and would further increase the range of possible capacity factor values.
Table 10. Estimated Net Energy Production at Site 2 – Chandler Elementary

Northern Power Systems
Turbine Model
NW100/21
Hub Height 37 m
Hub-Height Wind Speed (m/s) 5.1 6.2
1
Gross Energy (MWh) 146 230
Net Energy (MWh) 124 195
Net Capacity Factor 14% 22%
2
% of On-Site Annual Energy Consumption 19% 29%
% of Aggregate Annual Energy Consumption
3% 5%
for all Sites3
[1] Energy values based on one turbine
[2] Based on energy consumption data provided for Chandler Elementary
(664 MWh). See Table 3.
[3] Based on energy consumption data provided for all sites (4,288 MWh),
excluding North Hill Golf Course. See Table 3.
4
The P50 value represents the average expected value or, the value below which 50% of the outcomes are
expected to be found.

Table 11. Estimated Net Energy Production at Site 3 – Duxbury Transfer Station, North
Hill Golf Course, and Duxbury Town Hall/DPW Facility
Turbowinds Vestas Aeronautica
Turbine Model AWE 52-900 Enertech E-48
T-600 RRB600 Norwin 47-750
Hub Height (m) 50 50 50 50 50
Hub-Height Wind
5.5 6.6 5.5 6.6 5.5 6.6 5.5 6.6 5.5 6.6
Speed (m/s)
Gross Energy
1298 2085 1056 1669 1037 1643 899 1450 1048 1693
(MWh)
Net Energy (MWh) 1104 1772 898 1419 881 1397 764 1233 890 1439
Net Capacity Factor 14% 22% 17% 27% 17% 27% 15% 23% 14% 22%
% of On-Site Annual
Energy 332% 532% 270% 426% 265% 420% 229% 370% 267% 432%
1
Consumption
% of Aggregate
Annual Energy
26% 41% 21% 33% 21% 33% 18% 29% 21% 34%
Consumption for all
Sites2
[1] Based on energy consumption data provided for the Transfer Station and Town Hall/DPW (333 MWh total). Data not
provided for the golf course. See Table 3.
[2] Based on energy consumption data provided for all sites (4,288 MWh), excluding North Hill Golf Course. See Table 3.
The turbine type and the number of turbines chosen for each site will affect how much of the
generated electricity might be used on site and aggregated to offset energy consumption at other
Town facilities, as allowed by the new “virtual” net metering law.
DNV-GEC estimates that Site 2 could potentially accommodate one 100 kW scale turbine, which
could account for approximately 19% to 29% of the annual energy consumption at the site
facility and 3% to 5% of the aggregate annual energy consumption for all sites evaluated (see
Table 10). Net excess electricity would likely not be generated.
DNV-GEC estimates that a single turbine at Site 3 could accommodate a 600 kW to 900 kW
scale turbine, which could account for up to approximately 229% to 532% of the combined
annual energy consumption of the Transfer Station and Town Hall/DPW facility and 18% to
41% of the aggregate annual energy consumption for all sites evaluated (see Table 11).
Under the new net metering law, net metering facilities that are owned by a municipal or other
government entity are limited to a maximum capacity of 2 MW per unit which allows for
development of multiple turbine projects, provided that each turbine does not exceed 2 MW. If
multiple turbines are installed at Site 3 the percentage of the annual energy consumption that the
facility would account for would be approximately proportionate to the number of turbines.
Under a private ownership scenario, the project would be limited to a total of 2 MW for the
entire facility which may limit the number of turbines, depending on the turbine model.
However, as discussed above, a single turbine project is likely more feasible at this site.

Conclusions
The Town of Duxbury identified six possible sites for a potential wind power project:
• Duxbury High School
• Duxbury Middle School and Alden Elementary School
• Chandler Elementary School
• Duxbury Transfer Station
• North Hill Golf Course
• Duxbury Town Hall and Department of Public Works (DPW) Facility
Due to the close proximity of the high school and middle school, these two sites were grouped
together and evaluated as a single site. Similarly, the Transfer Station, Golf Course, and Town
Hall/DPW facility, which are also situated adjacent to each other, were grouped together and
evaluated as a single site. Using these site groupings, DNV-GEC completed a desktop review to
identify possible fatal flaws and wind energy development potential for each location.
The potential project sites are estimated to have a Class 2 wind resource, which, based on DNV-
GEC’s experience, is likely to result in a marginally economic project. The capacity factor is
expected to be in the range of 13% to 29% depending on the site(s) selected, the measured wind
resource, turbine size and model, and other factors. Recent changes in the Massachusetts net
metering law now allow any net excess electricity generated during a given month by a
municipal or government wind power project rated at 2 MW or less per unit to be credited to the
customer’s next monthly utility bill at the retail rate, and to be credited towards several different
loads with multiple utility meters, as long as the meters are under the same distribution company
and located in the same ISO-NE load zone. As this new law discounts the need for on-site
electrical load, project economics are expected to improve with turbine size.
Below is a summary of development potential for each potential site:
Site 1 - Duxbury High School, Duxbury Middle School, and Alden Elementary
School
After examination of the available land area, maximum height restrictions, and minimum
recommended setbacks, DNV-GEC estimates that there is insufficient area at Site 1 to
accommodate an industrial scale wind turbine. DNV-GEC recommends this site be removed
from further development consideration.
Site 2 – Chandler Elementary

After examination of the available land area, maximum height restrictions, and minimum
recommended setbacks, DNV-GEC estimates that Site 2 could accommodate up to one 100 kW
scale turbine. ASI determined that a turbine placed near the Chandler Elementary School would

be limited to a maximum height of approximately 52 m AGL. Therefore, the 100 kW Northern

Power Systems NW100/21 turbine with 48.5-m MTH was evaluated for this property. Based on
the estimated wind speeds at the site and available load data, DNV-GEC estimates one 100 kW
scale turbine could produce 124 MWh to 195 MWh of energy per year, satisfying 19% to 29% of
the annual site energy consumption and 3% to 5% of the aggregate annual energy consumption
for all sites evaluated.
Although a turbine could be located on the school property satisfying minimum recommended
setbacks, DNV-GEC does not recommend installation of a wind turbine at this location for the
following reasons:
• Potential safety concerns related to operating equipment near areas highly frequented by
the public (particularly children);
• Elevated risk the turbine may pose as an “attractive nuisance”; and
• DNV-GEC believes Site 3 (discussed below) offers a better development opportunity in
terms of energy production, safety, and community acceptance.
As such, DNV-GEC recommends Site 2 be removed from further development consideration.
Site 3 - Duxbury Transfer Station, North Hill Golf Course, and Duxbury Town
Hall/DPW Facility
After examination of the available land area, current land use practices, maximum height
restrictions, and minimum recommended setbacks, DNV-GEC determined that sufficient area
exists within Site 3 to support a community scale wind project and has identified two potential
turbine locations. Although there is sufficient area at this site for multiple turbines, a single-
turbine project would likely be more feasible at this site primarily due to community acceptance
issues. For a single-turbine project, Site 3 could accommodate a 600 kW to 900 kW scale
turbine, which could account for up to approximately 229% to 532% of the combined annual
energy consumption of the Transfer Station and Town Hall/DPW facility and 18% to 41% of the
aggregate annual energy consumption for all sites evaluated. As permitted by current net
metering laws, net excess generation from a net metering facility can be credited toward the
Town’s aggregate utility bill.
DNV-GEC has identified on-site areas characterized as Wetlands, Primary Habitat for Rare
Species, Core Habitat, and Protected and Recreational Open Space according to NHESP
designation. The presence of these designated areas at and near the site may not prohibit wind
power development; however, a proposed project may require an increased level of
environmental review. DNV-GEC recommends consultation with NHESP.
DNV-GEC recommends further evaluation of Site 3. In order to verify the findings of this
desktop study, a site visit is recommended. In addition to field verification of the information
provided in this review, items that should be completed during a site visit include identification
of potential met tower locations, identification of potential obstructions to wind flow, meeting
with local representatives, and gathering other relevant information necessary to perform a
feasibility study.

Met Tower Recommendations

If the Town desires to move forward with a wind project at this site, DNV-GEC recommends
installation of a meteorological tower at the project site to collect on-site wind resource data
necessary for a detailed feasibility study. DNV-GEC recommends the installation of a 50-m met
tower at Site 3. Ideally a met tower would be placed at the exact location of the future wind
turbine to collect wind resource information for a period of one year. Location 1 is in a forested
area that would require clearing a significant area for installation of a met tower and access to the
location. Location 2 is in a clearing that is currently accessible with an off road vehicle.
Figure 19 and Figure 20 show the vegetation at Location 1 and Location 2, respectively.
Minimal, if any, clearing would be required for installation of a met tower at Location 2. Due to
the minimal amount of clearing required at Location 2, installation costs for a met tower will
likely be significantly less at Location 2 compared to Location 1. Additionally, environmental
and recreational impacts will be minimal at Location 2 compared to Location 1. For these
reasons, DNV-GEC recommends that the met tower be placed at Location 2. Although Location
2 is at a lower elevation than Location 1, wind resource information collected at Location 2
would be reasonably representative of the expected wind resource at either potential turbine
location.
Figure 19. Example of Vegetation at Location 1

Figure 20. View of Location 2 from the Northeast
Additional Recommendations
Upon completion of the wind resource assessment phase, the Town would initiate a detailed
feasibility study including:
• Revised energy assessment based on measured meteorological data
• Additional aeronautical impact study to determine if any air space conflicts would exist at
the proposed turbine locations
• Additional communications interference study to determine whether the proposed
turbines would cause interference with microwave, radar, and radio signals
• A geotechnical investigation to determine the design and cost of turbine foundations
• An environmental study to verify the Wetlands, Primary Habitat for Rare Species, Core
Habitat, and Protected and Recreational Open Space designations
• A transportation study to confirm site access and constructability

• An interconnect and transmission system analysis to investigate interconnection locations

and determine where power could be delivered into the grid and what constraints, if any,
might exist
• Photo simulations from viewpoints of concern and shadow flicker analysis on
surrounding residences
• Project financial evaluation including an evaluation of net-metering options and scenarios

Wind Turbine Assessment

Încărcat de

Informații document

Drepturi de autor

Formate disponibile

Partajați acest document

Partajați sau inserați document

Opțiuni de partajare

Vi se pare util acest document?

Este necorespunzător acest conținut?

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

Wind Turbine Assessment

Încărcat de

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

Preliminary Survey of Potential Wind

Project Sites in the Town of Duxbury,

October 27, 2009

Massachusetts Technology Collaborative

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc.

October 27, 2009

October 27, 2009

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. i October 27, 2009

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. ii October 27, 2009

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. iii October 27, 2009

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 1 October 27, 2009

The Town of Duxbury is located in eastern Massachusetts, approximately 30 miles southeast of

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 2 October 27, 2009

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 3 October 27, 2009

Figure 1. Location of Duxbury, Massachusetts

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 4 October 27, 2009

Duxbury Middle School

Town Hall &

29 October 2008 Property Boundary

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 5 October 27, 2009

Duxbury Middle School

Projection: Massachusetts Mainland State Plane, Meters, NAD83 Site Boundaries

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 6 October 27, 2009

Projection: Massachusetts Mainland State Plane, Meters, NAD83 Site Boundary

Figure 4. Aerial Image of Site 2 (Chandler Elementary School)

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 7 October 27, 2009

Town Hall &

Projection: Massachusetts Mainland State Plane, Meters, NAD83 Site Boundaries

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 8 October 27, 2009

Wind Resource Potential and Climate

70-m Wind Resource

Town Hall &

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 9 October 27, 2009

Table 1. Wind Speed Estimates Based on New England Wind Map

Coordinates1 Estimated Annual

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 10 October 27, 2009

70-m Wind Resource

ASOS & RERL Stations

The New England Wind Map was

Projection: UTM, meters, WGS84

Figure 7. 70-m New England Wind Map and Weather Stations

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 11 October 27, 2009

Table 2. Summary of Available Wind Data

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 12 October 27, 2009

Figure 8. Wind Rose for Duxbury Area

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 13 October 27, 2009

Potential Offset of Electrical Loads and Electrical Grid Access

As an alternative to net metering, wind-generated electricity could be sold directly to the

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 14 October 27, 2009

Table 3. Annual Energy Consumption at the Duxbury Project Sites

Access to high-voltage transmission lines is a critical component of wind project development.

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 15 October 27, 2009

Projection: Massachusetts Mainland State Plane, Meters, NAD83

Figure 9. Location of Transmission Lines

Transportation and Site Access

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 16 October 27, 2009

Aviation Systems Report

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 17 October 27, 2009

Figure 10. Results of FAA Long-Range Radar Screening Tool

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 18 October 27, 2009

Figure 11. Results of FAA NEXRAD Screening Tool

DNV Global Energy Concepts Inc. 19 October 27, 2009

Environmental Issues and Permitting

Protected & Recreational