§ 3-8. Surety for removal of large system or utility-scale wind energy facilities, if decommissioned or abandoned.

The applicant shall place with the county an acceptable letter-of-credit, bond, or other form of security that is sufficient to cover the cost of removal at the end of the facility's useful life, as detailed in the decommissioning plan. Such surety shall be at least $200,000.00 for each wind turbine. The Planning Director or designee may approve a reduced surety amount that is not less than 150 percent of a cost estimate that is certified by an Engineer, salvage company, or other expert suitable to the Planning Director or designee.

The surety shall be used by the county to assure the faithful performance of the terms and conditions of this law and conditions of this Ordinance, as well as to serve as a removal security to prevent the taxpayers from bearing the cost of removal in the event of the abandonment or cessation of use for more than 90 consecutive days. The full amount of the bond or security shall remain in full force and effect until any and all necessary site restoration is completed to restore the site to a condition comparable to that which existed prior to the facility, as determined by the Planning Director or designee.

(Ord. of 2-10-14)