CT HB05271

Establishes decision timelines for the Connecticut Siting Council: 12 months for certain facilities, 180 days for telecommunications towers and solar/wind facilities (extendable by 180 days with applicant consent), effective July 1, 2012

Adds new certification requirements including consideration of manufacturer safety standards, minimum 250-foot setback from schools or child day care centers for solar/wind facilities (unless municipality approves or council finds no substantial adverse aesthetic effects), and evaluation of facility design options to minimize environmental impacts

Creates presumption that overhead transmission lines (345 kilovolts or higher) adjacent to residential areas, schools, or playgrounds are inconsistent with state purposes; applicants must rebut by demonstrating underground burial is technologically infeasible

Authorizes Attorney General to seek civil penalties up to $10,000 and attorney fees against parties or intervenors who intentionally omit or misrepresent material facts in council proceedings regarding telecommunications towers or solar/wind facilities

Requires applicants to consult with municipalities at least 90 days before filing applications for solar/wind facilities, including providing technical reports, maps, site analyses, and aesthetic impact assessments; municipalities must propose alternative sites within 30 days