The Public Service Commission continues a series of hearings on proposed wind farm regulations. Wednesday, the PSC heard testimony in Madison from the public on how best to craft uniform rules for the construction of new turbines.
Kim Egan, a farmer from Grant County who is developing a wind farm project, says making the regulations too tough will hurt development. Egan says wind turbines could serve as an excellent opportunity for farmers to recover lost revenue on their property.
Anita Roberts of Mishicot argued the proposed setback requirements for turbines aren’t good enough. Of particular concern is measuring the required distance of turbines based on existing structures on neighboring properties. Roberts says that could limit new development around wind farm projects and make portions of nearby land unusable to anyone else.
Roberts says neighbors also shouldn’t have to deal with the dangers of debris thrown by a damaged turbine or the daily noise they generate.
The PSC is collecting public comment on wind siting rules through July 7th. It’s expected to send a finalized version of its rules to the Legislature in September.