Large facility developers would submit noise and electricity assessments

Developers would submit noise and electricity assessments with applications for preliminary site plan approval. Covered facilities are commercial electricity customers expecting peak demand of at least 100 megawatts. Assessments would cover noise affecting homes and schools within 500 feet of the property boundary and utility information about substations and the voltage needed to supply electricity. The assessment would examine these issues as far as practical. Local officials would use it to check compliance with town planning policies, noise rules, zoning rules, and other applicable laws. Existing local zoning powers would remain in place. The requirement would apply to applications submitted on or after the bill’s effective date. If enacted, it would take effect immediately.

Local approval officials could require developers to assess effects on additional local resources. This authority would cover commercial electricity customers expecting peak demand of at least 100 megawatts. Reviews could cover water, farmland, parks and open space, historic sites, and forests. Any required assessment would examine these effects as far as practical. A review of forests would cover land on the proposed site or adjoining land. If enacted, this authority would take effect immediately.