This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 24-2-11e, to the Code of West Virginia, which establishes specific requirements for the Public Service Commission to approve siting certificates for wind energy systems. The bill defines key terms such as "owner," "residence," "wind energy system," and "wind turbine," and mandates minimum setback distances for wind turbines from property lines, residences, paved public roads, and overhead transmission lines of 115kV capacity or greater. The required setbacks are set at 1.1 times the total height of the turbine for property lines and public roads, and 1.5 times the height for residences.

Additionally, the bill allows landowners to sign written waivers to permit wind turbines to be placed closer than the established minimum setbacks. The methodology for measuring these distances is also specified, requiring measurements to be taken as a straight line from the vertical centerline of the wind turbine to the relevant points. This legislation aims to ensure safety and minimize potential conflicts between wind energy systems and nearby properties or infrastructure.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 24-2-11e