South Dakota wind project receives construction permit

The Sweetland Wind Farm project, which officials said is capable of producing approximately 200 megawatts of energy, has garnered a construction permit to be built near Miller, SD.

The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) recently granted the permit, with the company noting it expects to complete the $240 million facility and begin operations by Dec. 31, 2020. However, construction will not start until Sweetland finds a buyer for the electricity generated by the wind farm.

“The swiftness of this wind docket is abnormal,” PUC Chairman Gary Hanson, said. “Usually meeting the six-month deadline, especially with so many wind farm dockets before us, is challenging. Each issue and concern must be explored in the interest of protecting consumers and the citizens of South Dakota. The absence of opposition, strong local support, and community’s experience with wind farms are reflected in the swiftness of this proceeding.”

Aircraft detection lighting, avian and bat mortality, land restoration, decommissioning, noise level and shadow flicker were among potential permit issues addressed as the PUC weighed the decision to issue the permit, officials said.

“We began on a pretty rocky road with this particular wind farm, and fortunately we’ve been able to move past that,” Vice Chairman Chris Nelson said. “The applicant was willing to work directly with a concerned intervenor to resolve issues as opposed to going through a hearing process. Both the company and intervenor Theresa Lichty should be commended for their participation and willingness to work together.”