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Wind Power Services Package
Seven-Tier Approach
A "Good Neighbor" Approach to Wind Power Project Planning

Tier 1: Search for Licensed Microwave and Telecom Systems with GeoPlanner^TM

Comsearch's Wind Power GeoPlanner allows easy assessment of potential microwave path obstructions from proposed wind turbine locations. GeoPlanner provides graphical representations of microwave and auxiliary broadcast systems in any geographical area in the United States. Viewed through free GIS mapping tools, GeoPlanner is derived from Comsearch's technical and regulatory databases and includes microwave data, detailed contact information, and digital topographical maps for a specific geographic location.

Comsearch can also provide data sets for land mobile, AM, FM, and TV stations, such as antenna locations and service contours.

Tier 2: Detailed Obstruction Analysis and Notification

Comsearch experts will perform an initial worst-case microwave path obstruction analysis to determine instances where the wind turbine blades may impinge on any microwave paths within a specified project area. Once all potential obstructions are identified, we will perform a detailed obstruction analysis to determine vertical and horizontal clearance to the microwave paths. We will provide detailed reports of the proposed wind turbine locations failing to meet these clearances and offer recommendations for relocation.

Tier 3: Analysis of Interference to TV Signals

With any new wind turbine project, it is necessary to assess the potential for interference to TV reception in the area. Areas that are on the fringe of a TV station's coverage area, where the signal is weakest, are most susceptible to this type of interference. Comsearch will conduct an analysis of the potential for interference to each of the TV signals serving the area's communities. The analysis will take into account the physical dimensions of the wind turbines, the terrain characteristics and physical structures of the area, and the TV reception antenna heights at homes and cable company head-ends.

Tier 4: Measurements and Interference Mitigation

To provide a more precise determination of interference, Comsearch will perform measurements of the TV reception levels prior to and after the installation of the wind turbines. The measured levels will be compared to the licensed contour levels for TV stations and the levels established by the FCC for community standards. In addition, a TV monitor and video recorder will be used to observe and record the video and audio of the television channels to determine their video quality.

Tier 5: Coordination with NTIA for Federal Governments Telecom Systems

There are many Federal Government telecom systems located throughout the U.S. However the locations are confidential and proprietary to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), and not available to the public. Comsearch has established a process with NTIA specifically for wind energy products, where we will act as liaison to obtain government approval through NTIA. We wll also conduct additional analyses, if necessary, when federal government systems are at risk for interference.

Tier 6: Filing of Required FAA Forms

We will file FAA Form 7460-1 on behalf of the wind energy developer. This form is required for all wind energy projects.

Tier 7: Recommendations/Support

If microwave path disruption or interference to TV reception is identified, Comsearch will provide recommendations to mitigate the interference. Comsearch will also provide on-site support to ensure that interference issues are resolved quickly.

Wind Power Services Package:

Download Industry Study:

Identifying and Avoiding Radio Frequency Interference for Wind Turbine Facilities

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