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Committee introduces bill allowing radar-activated lighting for wind turbines
Summary
A legislative committee voted to introduce RS32138, a proposal by Rep. Jeff Ehlers to permit wind farms to use FAA-approved radar-activated lighting systems that keep obstruction lights off except when aircraft are nearby; the bill would allow up to 24 months for installation.
A legislative committee voted to introduce RS32138, a bill from Representative Jeff Ehlers aimed at allowing wind farms to use radar-activated lighting systems so red obstruction lights remain off except when aircraft are nearby. The motion to introduce the measure was moved on the floor and carried by voice vote.
Representative Jeff Ehlers (District 21, Meridian) told the committee the proposal would let wind turbines “be a good neighbor” by installing technology that “will basically mitigate those red lights.” He said the red lights are required for aircraft safety but that radar systems can detect aircraft and trigger the lights only when needed.
The measure, as described in committee, would require Federal Aviation Administration approval before lights can be operated in a radar-activated mode and would give operators 24 months to install the detection equipment. Ehlers said about 10 states already allow similar systems and that he could arrange for a vendor to appear at a public hearing to answer technical questions.
Committee discussion on the motion was brief. Representative Nicholson made the motion to introduce RS32138; the chair called the voice vote and members responded “aye,” and the motion carried.
The bill was introduced for further committee consideration; no amendments or final policy decisions were made at the meeting.
