Two Greenbrier County lawmakers say they applaud legislation proposed by Governor Joe Manchin that calls for the study of the controversial wind farm issue and a six month moratorium for certain wind farm projects that have yet to be certified by the state.
Two Greenbrier County lawmakers say they applaud legislation proposed by Governor Joe Manchin that calls for the study of the controversial wind farm issue and a six month moratorium for certain wind farm projects that have yet to be certified by the state.
That moratorium would specifically apply to sites located within twenty nautical miles of an airport. The federal government is concerned about the effects of wind farms on aviation radar.
The state Public Service Commission is currently considering a proposal to construct several dozen windmills on a mountain ridge in Greenbrier and Nicholas counties. If the governor's bill were approved, that project would be put on hold.
Greenbrier County Delegates Tom Campbell says he's very pleased with this legislation, especially as it pertains to the Greenbrier/Nicholas project. It’s an issue that, he says, NEEDS more study.
"If it's not done carefully, its my opinion that we could decrease the tax base and have a net loss in jobs."
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That moratorium would specifically apply to sites located within twenty nautical miles of an airport. The federal government is concerned about the effects of wind farms on aviation radar.
The state Public Service Commission is currently considering a proposal to construct several dozen windmills on a mountain ridge in Greenbrier and Nicholas counties. If the governor's bill were approved, that project would be put on hold.
Greenbrier County Delegates Tom Campbell says he's very pleased with this legislation, especially as it pertains to the Greenbrier/Nicholas project. It’s an issue that, he says, NEEDS more study.
"If it's not done carefully, its my opinion that we could decrease the tax base and have a net loss in jobs."
Manchin administration Communications Secretary Lara Ramsburg told MetroNews prior to the start of the session that the governor believes it's best to wait to see what the federal government is going to do with the wind power issue before the industry grows any more in West Virginia.
Delegate Ray Canterbury, also of Greenbrier County, says his constituents are reacting favorably to this legislation as well.
"I think they would welcome further study and a delay."
The legislation is currently being studied by both House and Senate committees.