New wind development illegal until new federal rules

New wind development illegal until new federal rules (Fish & Wildlife from American Wind Energy Assn.)

Wind Energy Works!

A new effort in Washington DC poses a serious threat to wind development - both future and existing. It threatens not only any federal RPS, but also state RPS requirements would be affected if Chairman Nick Rahall, D-WV, has his way. Highlights:

His provision makes new wind development illegal until new federal rules (Fish & Wildlife Service) are established. We know from the Minerals Management Service experience this can take a while - MMS expects theirs to take 2 ½ years, way over the original 270 days prescribed.

Existing facilities must shut down within 6 months of new rules, until certified. Any violation is a criminal offense with a $50,000 fine or a year in prison. Small residential wind turbines, as well as large, are required to cease operating or face criminal penalties.

Once new rules are passed, every single wind turbine will require certification - government staff would have to evaluate each turbine application.

This Bill is moving with Lightning Speed. Although it was made available only last week, a House Committee on Natural Resources mark-up session where the bill will be formally considered has been scheduled for June 6. A hearing is scheduled for this Wednesday.

http://capwiz.com/windenergy/issues/alert/?alertid=9773201&type=CO

Tags: wind development, power, American Wind Energy Association, NAIS, PAWS