NC S491

Establishes a statewide permitting system for wind energy facilities of 3 megawatts or more, requiring applicants to obtain permits from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources before construction, operation, or expansion.

Requires a 120-day pre-application site evaluation meeting and 45-day pre-application package submission, followed by a scoping meeting at least 30 days before formal application, with mandatory notice to military installations, federal agencies, and local governments.

Sets application fee of $3,500 and requires applicants to submit FAA "Determination of No Hazard to Air Navigation," military impact documentation, noise and shadow flicker studies, environmental impact assessments, and decommissioning plans.

Permits approval unless the facility would violate state law, interfere with military operations at major Department of Defense installations, cause significant adverse environmental impacts, or obstruct navigation; Department must decide within 90 days of receiving completed application.

Imposes civil penalties up to $10,000 per day for constructing wind energy facilities without permits or in violation of permit conditions, and authorizes the Secretary to seek injunctive relief.