The Arkansas legislature has introduced the state’s first regulatory framework to control the growth of wind eneergy projects.
Called the Arkansas Wind Energy Development Act, it would set regulation for wind turbine construction, decommissioning rules and permitting processes. Senate Bill 437 would also require wind developers to also carry out environmental impact assessments and to notify the public of projects.
Just as the Oklahoma Corporation Commimssion oversees wind farm projects and their permitting, the Arkansas Public Service Commission would do the same in Arkansas.
Already, wind energy companies are voicing concerns that the bill might restrict development when energy demand is expected to grow.