(Radio Iowa) — Union County officials have approved plans for a MidAmerican Energy wind farm in the northwest part of the county. The Union County Board of Supervisors issued a permit for up to 36 turbines this week. Union County Engineer Zach Gunsolley says the sites MidAmerican selected fall within the guidelines of a county ordinance adopted this spring.

“It’s 1,250 feet from the nearest residence if they are participating, 1500 feet from a residence or a church, one mile from parks,” Gunsolley says. MidAmerican plans to erect 38 wind turbines in neighboring Adams County as well.

A MidAmerican representative told Union County officials the company expects to start construction next spring. On Tuesday, officials in Madison County will hold a public hearing on a proposed moratorium for new wind and solar projects in the county.