Regulators consider new rules for wind farms

Rules for locating wind farms in Minnesota could change, as state regulators consider complaints from neighbors.

In a five-hour-long meeting Monday, the Public Utilities Commission heard concerns about health or quality-of-life issues for people living near big wind farms.

The PUC's Tricia DeBleckere says some people complained about noise from wind turbines, others talked about flickering shadows from the blades, and others said wind farms should only be located in sparsely settled areas.

"There's been a growing concern in the last year regarding wind turbines and the issues surrounding them, as these projects become more and more prevalent," said DeBleckere.

Under current rules, the minimum setback of a wind turbine from a residence is 500 feet, but nearly all are located farther away. Some critics are asking for a half-mile setback.

The PUC will take some time to study the issues.