Byers Auto Group: A Case Study Into The Economics, Zoning, and Overall Process of Installing Small Wind Turbines at Two Automotive Dealerships in Ohio

Pathways to installing renewables, including small wind turbines, can sometimes be difficult due to economics, zoning issues, public perception, and other barriers. Persistence and innovation, however, can result in amazing successes, leading to transformations in local communities. In a process that began in 2008, the Byers Auto Group, an Ohio-based automotive dealership, established itself as a renewable energy leader by utilizing energy efficiency, recycled materials, and renewable energy technologies at two of its showrooms. While planning and designing a new Toyota showroom at the Delaware County location, the Group integrated highefficiency lighting, recycled glass tiles, and other approaches to create a greener and healthier facility. In addition, the dealership installed a Proven Energy 15- kilowatt (kW) turbine. The Group also installed a Northern Power Systems Northwind 100 turbine at its Columbus location. Both turbines became operational in fall 2010. The Group experienced various challenges and learned valuable lessons while siting projects in these locations without zoning regulations specific to wind energy systems and with limited project examples to follow. With more diverse applications becoming increasingly common, examples of projects and the required steps - from idea through installation - will become more available to pave the way for future project installations. This case study will delve into the specifics of the $600,000 small wind project and describe the process (including financing, zoning, site evaluation, and turbine selection). Estimated annual energy production, as well as an estimate of the percentage of energy needs met by these turbines will also be discussed.