New York State Wind Energy Guidebook

The Wind Energy Guidebook contains information and resources to support local governments managing wind energy development in their communities. The Guidebook’s chapters address important aspects of wind energy project siting, including environmental considerations, community impacts, permitting information, and other key topics.

You can download the full Wind Guidebook [PDF] or access individual chapters below.

Wind Energy and Your Community: Frequently Asked Questions

Explanation of wind energy basics as it relates to important topics for local officials. Topics covered include local officials’ role in planning and permitting, environmental impacts, health impacts, noise, shadow flicker, roads, property value, and visual impact and safety concerns.

Wind Energy and Your Community: Frequently Asked Questions [PDF]

Understanding Wind Energy

Introduction to the basic technology, equipment, and terminology used in wind projects.

Understanding Wind Energy [PDF]

Wind Energy Site Selection

Introduction and discussion of key considerations for identifying optimal sites for wind energy development.

Wind Energy Site Selection [PDF]

Land Agreements

Exploration of common land agreements for wind energy projects.

Land Agreements [PDF]

Local Role in Planning and Permitting

Introduction to the State-level siting processes for major wind energy facilities, as well as the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR).

Local Role in Planning and Permitting [PDF]

Birds and Bats: Impacts and Regulation

Review of the Federal and State requirements protecting ecological resources.

Birds and Bats: Impacts and Regulations [PDF]

Community Considerations

Planning for potential construction and operations impacts of wind projects.

Community Considerations [PDF]

Economic Impacts of Wind Development

Exploration of the economic impacts of wind energy projects, including local economic activity, land revenue, property taxes, and property values.

Economic Impacts of Wind Development [PDF]

Public Safety and Setbacks

Introduction and discussion of key public safety considerations associated with wind energy projects.

Public Safety and Setbacks [PDF]