Consider approval of a resolution in support of a Windmill Farm at the Gulf Coast Water Authority reservoir on SH 146 to be installed and managed by Duke Energy.

Duke Energy is interested in placing a windmill farm of 20 to 30 windmills to harness energy from the gulf coast winds.  After reviewing the area, the Gulf Coast Water Authority's water reservoir  on SH 146 appears to be an ideal location both in land mass and alignment to capture the wind.  Windmills can go in water.  The location is isolated away from scenic areas and residential areas.  Windmills are fast becoming one of the environmental energy sources of choice.  The harnessing of wind energy has advanced greatly in the last few years and is a clean choice of energy versus petroleum or coal base or even nuclear energy.  Wind energy is part of President Obama's program for exploring alternative energy sources.  

This resolution is requested by the Gulf Coast Water Authority Board before it enters into an agreement to allow a license to Duke Energy to perform studies on the property as they prepare and finalize a lease for the use of the reservoir.  The studies will look at wind and the environmental impacts including effects on animals and birds in the area, the land, water, and surrounding area.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be over $200 million.  Royalties from the energy sales will go to the Gulf Coast Water Authority as part of the lease.  Support of the project is in line with the City's position on the promoting more green and environmentally-friendly industry and construction throughout the City.