Wind Energy

Among the flurry of executive orders from President Donald Trump this week was one targeting a massive wind energy project in Idaho. Some officials and activists are applauding the move.

The Bureau of Land Management has approved a major wind energy project on public lands in South Central Idaho. It has faced strong opposition, especially from descendants of Japanese Americans unjustly incarcerated during World War II.

The Bureau of Land Management Friday released its final 'Record of Decision' on the proposed Lava Ridge Wind Energy project, allowing the previously announced alternative plan with a reduced footprint and fewer turbines to move forward.

The Lava Ridge Wind Project, a proposed large-scale wind farm in southern Idaho, faces yet another challenge as the federal Advisory Council on Historic Preservation withdraws from the process.

The agency’s preferred alternative includes a smaller project footprint, fewer turbines and more height restrictions, which it says respond to the many concerns raised. However, the announcement has been criticized by a number of groups and officials.

Wind energy is a big part of the transition from fossil fuels. But that comes with consequences, including the potential for more deadly collisions between birds and turbines.

The wind farm, located mostly on public lands in Jerome, Lincoln and Minidoka counties, could include up to 400 wind turbines, providing more than 1,000 megawatts of power. It's faced fierce opposition in Idaho.

The wind farm has generated significant opposition. One objection has been that the power produced on public lands in Idaho would likely be sent out of state.

When Lava Ridge Wind Project was proposed in 2018, it was the first of its kind for public lands in Idaho. Now the BLM is processing 14 renewable energy applications in the state.

The county wants time to put new zoning regulations in place as it sees an increased interest in wind and solar development.