SALEM – FPL Energy Vansycle LLP is requesting the Oregon Department of Energy grant it more time to complete phase three of the Stateline Wind Project and approve a variation in noise control regulations.

Stateline’s third phase calls for 279 Vestas V 47-660-kW wind turbines, all of which are yet to be built.

Phase three was approved June 6, 2003, but the amendment would extend the deadlines for both beginning and completing construction by 24 months.

The second amendment request would modify the site certificate to allow compliance with state noise control regulations, as amended by the Oregon Environmental Quality Commission in June 2004.

The amended regulations allow a new noise source to increase the ambient statistical noise levels by more than 10 decibels if the person who owns the noise sensitive property signs an easement or real covenant authorizing the increase.

The first and second phases of the Stateline Wind Project, totaling 186 wind turbines, are currently operating.

They are grouped in strings on ridges along the Oregon-Washington border, east of the Columbia River and south of the Oregon-Washington border near the Wallula area. The peak generating capacity of the project will be approximately 307.5 megawatts. The peak generating capacity of the currently operating turbines is approximately 123 megawatts.

Copies of the amendment request are available for public inspection at the Pendleton Public Library, 502 S.W. Dorion Ave., and at the DOE, 625 Marion St. NE, Salem. The request may also be viewed or downloaded from the Internet at egov.oregon.gove/ENERGY/SITING/announce.shtml.

Comments from the public must be received by May 6 by mail, fax or e-mail. After reviewing the comments, a recommendation will be made to the council. At that time, the recommendation will be announced and another 30-day period for public comments or requests for a hearing will occur.

Comments should be sent to John G. White, Oregon Department of Energy, 625 Marion St. NE, Salem OR 97301-3742, or faxed to White at (503) 373-7806. People with questions about the proposed amendment can reach White at (503) 378-3194, or toll free within the state at 800-221-8035, Ext. 295.