SB3263 Summary

• Creates the Wind Energy Facilities Construction and Deconstruction Act requiring commercial wind energy operators (500+ kilowatts) to enter agricultural impact mitigation agreements with the Illinois Department of Agriculture covering construction and deconstruction standards.

• Requires operators to file notice of intent 180 days before construction and submit construction plans; Department approves siting if facility meets noise standards, minimizes shadow flicker and signal interference, and protects public health and safety.

• Mandates operators file deconstruction plans 180 days before construction prepared by independent third parties, including estimated per-turbine costs and payment method; operators bear all deconstruction costs and must complete removal within 18 months after facility reaches end of useful life.

• Requires operators to post reclamation bonds to cover deconstruction costs, reevaluated every 5 years; Department may complete deconstruction and draw upon bonds if operator fails to do so.

• Amends Counties Code to eliminate county authority to establish wind farm standards and siting regulations, transferring jurisdiction to the Department of Agriculture and creating the Wind Energy Administration Fund to support the Department's compliance costs.