RALEIGH, N.C. North Carolina senators have approved banning wind turbines from Appalachian ridges, balancing potential for green energy against unspoiled mountain vistas.

The Senate voted 42-1 on Thursday to establish regulations for where wind turbines can be built. It next heads to the state House, where it may not come up until next spring.

The proposed law would require a state permit to build wind farms. They could be blocked if they harm navigation, wildlife, or the views from any state or national park. Single windmills of up to 100 feet tall could power a home.

Senators rejected pleas by green-power advocates not to ban an industry some mountain communities are trying to encourage and Appalachian State University is a leader in studying.