Review of Republic Wind recommends approval

BELLEVUE — The staff of the Ohio Power Siting Board recommends the board approve a wind farm in Sandusky and Seneca counties.Apex Clean Energy wants to construct 47 wind turbines in the two counties for its Republic Wind Farm. The board, which holds the power to approve or deny wind farm applications, had its experts review Apex's application over the past several months.The full report was released Thursday with the staff recommending the board members approve the project as long as 57 conditions are met, most of which are ensuring the requirements of the application are met."These are just the result of the technical staff's investigation," board spokesman Matt Butler said. "The next step would be for the administrative judge to set public hearing near the community and then evidentiary hearing in Columbus."There's no time table for when these will be scheduled, but once they're complete the board will make its final decisions to approve or deny the wind farm.Apex is also seeking to build up to 71 wind turbines in Erie and Huron counties for its Emerson Creek Wind Project, which is still being reviewed by the board.Reach reporter Michael Harrington at michaelharrington@sanduskyregister.com, follow the Register at Facebook.com/SanduskyRegisterA simulation of what the view could look like from West Willard Road in Richmond Township if the Emerson Creek Wind Project is approved.