Proposed Bill Would Slam Brakes on WA Wind Turbine Farms
Especially if you live near southeast Kennewick, or in the Horse Heaven Hills area, you're aware of this. Since before October 2020, Scout Energy (a company from Colorado) has been pushing a massive wind turbine project, or wind farm, that would wind for miles along the spine of the Horse Heaven Hills area.
However, after massive public opposition and even Benton PUD skepticism, Scout Energy reported in March of 2021 they were 'slowing' the project, and during a public hearing, they were met with massive opposition.
NOW A WALLA WALLA LEGISLATOR IS SEEKING TO DELAY SUCH PROJECTS
House Rep Mark Klicker (16th District Walla Walla, Pasco) has filed House Bill 1871, which would dramatically slow down the wind farms that have been popping up like mushrooms.
Since 1970, the Energy Site Evaluation Council has been responsible for locating and approving sites for major energy projects in our state. However, under Governor Inslee and with pressure from environmental groups and entities such as Scout Energy, wind farms have been sprouting up everywhere, especially in Eastern WA.
Klicker has flipped the equity card back on Inslee, as the bill basically says the bulk of these projects have been in Eastern WA, while they provide power for the west side.
BILL WOULD PLACE A MORATORIUM ON WIND FARM PROJECTS
His bill would require the Department of Commerce to prepare a comprehensive report on inequities in siting, or locating these properties. It says there will be a moratorium on such projects, including wind farms until the report is finished. It calls for the report to be finished by December 2022, with results being given to the legislature by December 2023.
The bill is slated for a hearing, Friday, January 21st, and YOU can comment on it or sign up to testify during the session. IF you wish to be a part of the hearing, click here.
IF you wish to comment on the bill, click here.
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