This bill proposes updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes by amending title 44, chapter 11, article 11 to include provisions related to wind energy devices alongside existing solar energy regulations. The article heading will be changed from "solar energy devices" to "solar and wind energy devices." New sections will be added to establish requirements for businesses contracting to construct solar or wind energy projects that may impact agricultural operations. Specifically, businesses will be required to compensate agricultural lessees for losses incurred due to the reduction of their operations, including loss of profits, conservation measures, and relocation costs.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that agricultural lessees must provide credible evidence of their losses before compensation is made. It also mandates that businesses secure a new lease of equal or greater value for the agricultural lessee, unless the project allows the lessee to continue their operations without disruption. The definition of "agricultural lessee" is clarified to include lessees of state and federal lands used for agricultural purposes. Overall, these changes aim to protect agricultural interests while promoting the development of renewable energy projects.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 44-1765