Illinois HB1163 regulates the siting and operation of commercial wind and solar energy facilities.

HB1163 amends the Counties Code to establish guidelines for commercial wind and solar energy facilities in Illinois. It mandates that facility owners file land reclamation and recycling plans with the Department of Agriculture before a public hearing. The bill prohibits siting solar facilities on land with a crop productivity index over 110. It allows counties to set standards for facility siting, including setbacks from protected lands and nonparticipating residences, and requires compliance with federal aviation guidelines for wind tower heights.

Illinois HB1163 regulates the siting and operation of commercial wind and solar energy facilities.

HB1163 amends the Counties Code to establish guidelines for commercial wind and solar energy facilities in Illinois. It mandates that facility owners file land reclamation and recycling plans with the Department of Agriculture before a public hearing. The bill prohibits siting solar facilities on land with a crop productivity index over 110. It allows counties to set standards for facility siting, including setbacks from protected lands and nonparticipating residences, and requires compliance with federal aviation guidelines for wind tower heights.