The state of Illinois has a new law streamlining the zoning rules to allow more wind farm development.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation last week that allows only counties and municipalities to set standards for wind farm development. The law prevents townships from having authority over the location of the wind farms.
The governor and wind industry supporters contend the new law will result in more wind farm development in Illinois and at the same time put millions into the pockets of landowners and farmers.
The bill was introduced after two townships in a county enacted wind farm regulations that were stricter than those passed by the county board. One legislator said the new law brings an end to “unnecessary government regulation” in creating wind farms.