The proposed bill would significantly update current statutes related to the approval and regulation of wind farms in Arizona. It would introduce new definitions for "Owner" and "wind farm," and require the County Planning and Zoning Commission to hold public hearings for wind farm permits within ninety days of application completion, with specific notification procedures that include publishing in local newspapers and informing adjacent landowners. The costs associated with these notifications would be the responsibility of the wind farm owner. Additionally, the bill mandates the submission of indemnity bonds by wind farm owners to protect the county from potential claims, prohibits ownership transfers without county permission, and establishes distance restrictions from neighboring properties.

Moreover, the bill would create a Wind Farm Health Impacts Study Committee to evaluate health concerns, allow property owners to seek compensation for reduced property values, and provide a mechanism for counties to waive such claims. It also introduces a six-month moratorium on the approval of construction permits to allow counties to adjust their regulations, while ensuring that existing projects under construction are not affected. The act would apply retroactively from December 31, 2024, enhancing regulatory oversight and community involvement in renewable energy project development.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-254.07, 19-144, 37-281.02, 37-286, 37-301, 37-461, 40-360.06, 11-805, 30-301, 42-14155, 11-882, 11-883, 11-884, 11-885, 12-1134, 30-303, 30-304, 37-107, 37-133
House Engrossed Version: 11-254.07, 19-144, 37-281.02, 37-286, 37-301, 37-461, 40-360.06, 11-805, 30-301, 42-14155, 11-882, 11-883, 11-884, 11-885, 12-1134, 30-303, 30-304, 37-107, 37-133