Senate approves requirement that new Idaho wind farms use aircraft‑detection lighting systems; existing farms get FAA permitting timeline
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Summary
The Senate passed House Bill 146 as amended to require aircraft detection lighting systems (ADLS) on new wind projects and set FAA-permit timelines for existing farms; sponsors said costs fall to operators and the mandate reduces nighttime light pollution.
House Bill 146, which requires new wind-energy projects in Idaho to include aircraft detection lighting systems (ADLS) and directs existing farms to obtain FAA permits and install ADLS within a set period if permitted, passed the Senate following debate on costs and retroactivity.
Sponsor Senator Van Orden said ADLS technology lets lighting remain off until radar detects aircraft, reducing nighttime flashing lights that residents have complained about. He said the measure is already in use in other states, that operators must obtain FAA approval and that installation and maintenance costs fall to the wind farm operators. He also said the bill provides an exemption if the FAA denies a permit.
Opponents argued the bill is retroactive for existing projects, could impose substantial costs on operators, and that only a small number of manufacturers produce ADLS gear—potentially creating a de facto monopoly. Senator Van Orden said the measure is aimed at reducing nuisance light pollution and protecting property values.
The Senate approved the bill on a roll-call vote reported as 18 in favor, 15 opposed and 2 absent. The bill will be returned to the House.