The bill establishes new regulations for the construction and operation of wind turbine generators in Montana. It mandates that any wind turbine generator that is 500 feet or taller must be located at least 1,500 feet away from occupied residences, unless a shorter distance is approved by the property owner. Additionally, the bill introduces a deicing standard requiring that wind turbine generators, which are also 500 feet or taller and located in areas with an ice class rating of 4 or more, must take commercially reasonable efforts to mitigate icing risks during the deicing process.

The bill also includes amendments to existing legal language regarding wind energy agreements, specifically removing certain requirements and notarization stipulations. The effective date for these new regulations is set for January 1, 2026. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance safety and operational standards for wind energy projects while addressing concerns related to their proximity to residential areas.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 70-17-406
HB0939_1(1): 70-17-406
HB0939_1(2): 70-17-406
HB0939_1(3): 70-17-406
HB0939_1(4): 70-17-406
HB0939_1(5): 70-17-406
HB0939_1(6): 70-17-406
HB0939_1(7): 70-17-406
HB0939_1(8): 70-17-406
HB0939_1: 70-17-406
HB0939_2(1): 70-17-406
HB0939_2(2): 70-17-406
HB0939_2(3): 70-17-406
HB0939_2(4): 70-17-406
HB0939_2: 70-17-406
HB0939_3(1): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(10): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(11): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(2): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(3): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(4): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(5): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(6): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(7): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(8): 70-17-406
HB0939_3(9): 70-17-406
HB0939_3: 70-17-406