Panel recommends compensating wind farm neighbors

MADISON (AP) - State utility regulators will consider a recommendation that homeowners who live near wind farms be compensated for concerns about noise and reduced property value.

A task force working to create state standards for wind turbine locations is forwarding its recommendations to the Public Service Commission, which is expected to consider them by the end of the month.

The rules would regulate small wind farms that need permits from local governments. The standards would replace a hodgepodge of local regulations. Utility-sized wind farms need approval from the PSC.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel says Wisconsin needs six more large wind farms to achieve the state's renewable energy mandate that 10 percent of Wisconsin's electricity come from renewable sources by 2015.