NC S843

Expands existing wind energy facility permitting requirements to include all renewable energy facilities, establishing a comprehensive state permitting process managed by the Department of Environmental Quality.

Requires renewable energy facility applicants to complete a preapplication site evaluation meeting 120-180 days before formal application, submit detailed environmental and military impact studies, and pay a $3,500 application fee.

Establishes a 1.5-mile setback requirement between renewable energy facilities and adjacent property lines, with additional setbacks possible if military installations are affected, and requires landscape buffers for solar farms.

Imposes strict liability on facility owners and operators for damages to persons or property caused by construction, operation, or decommissioning, with joint and several liability for multiple responsible parties.

Requires applicants to establish financial assurance through bonds equaling at least 15% of real and renewable energy property value to ensure decommissioning and reclamation within one year of operation cessation, with complete removal of all structures and equipment required.