OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate on Thursday passed a key energy bill from Sen. Grant Green, R-Wellston, that would establish the state’s first residential property setbacks for wind turbines.

Senate Bill 2 aims to protect property owners’ rights with reasonable setbacks, where no wind energy facilities may be constructed if the base of any turbine is located within 0.25 nautical miles of a residential dwelling or property that is not related to the wind farm.

“Oklahoma law currently offers homeowners no protections from the noises and dangers of wind farms,” Senator Green said. “Without this muchneeded regulatory change, someone could purchase land and build a wind farm in a resident’s backyard, without any consideration for their property values or quality of life. But we must strike a balance without impeding on property owners’ rights.”

Reasonable residential setbacks strike a balance and are a rational compromise when the law already requires wind turbines to be distanced from schools, hospitals and airports.

“I have faced relentless criticism over this bill from those who refuse to offer constructive feedback or engage in the tough conversations needed to find balanced solutions that drive good policy. While this legislation may not go as far as some would like, it is a vital first step toward safeguarding Oklahomans’ private property rights. Senate Bill 2 attempts to find a compromise that ensures property owners aren’t forced to live in fear of unwanted developments while also allowing energy producers to operate without excessive government interference.”

Senate Bill 2 now advances to the House, where it is coauthored by Rep. John Pfeiffer, R-Orlando.