An Ontario Municipal Board decision on Grand Valley Wind Farms is expected by the end of next month, but the proponent isn't certain when construction might begin, even if the project is approved.

The hearing before OMB member John Aker lasted only four days, as Amaranth Township withdrew its objections to the project, largely because Wind Rush Energy agreed to bury its distribution line along the East Luther- Amaranth Townline, rather than to erect wooden poles.

The hearing might also have been shortened as Wind Rush and East Luther Grand Valley had reached a settlement agreement in August.

The remaining objections to the project at the conclusion of the hearing were from Amaranth resident Paul Thompson who said, generally, that the noise of the small transformer would be 28 decibels at his residence, or 6 decibels greater than the night-time ambient 22 decibels.

As well, another resident remained concerned about property values and the disappearance of scenic views.

There has been an aerodrome objection, but an expert witness said the design of the wind farm was such that it does not breach any of the conditions that would apply to certified airports.

A decision in favour of the project would not solve all of the problems Wind Rush might be facing prior to construction.

Wind Rush president J.C. Pennie said in an interview that a contract he had for the turbines expired on July 31 because of the lack of a municipal approval by that date.

Now he said he is scrambling to find another supplier but is faced with a worldwide shortage of supplies in an era of increasing demand.

As well, Wind Rush was in partnership with Earthfirst Canada, which recently filed for protection under the Companies Creditors Arrangement Act as the global financial crisis had led to its creditors seeking to recover about $131 million.

Mr. Pennie said he is in the process of buying back Earthfirst's interests in the Grand Valley project.