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HB 430

An Act imposing the duty on Department of Environmental Protection to prohibit the construction or installation of wind turbines that negatively affect military installations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jake Banta and 14 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania would require the DEP to block wind turbine permits that negatively affect military installations, potentially restricting renewable energy development near bases.

Laid on the table (Pursuant to House Rule 71)
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Bill Summary · HB 430

Legislative bill overview

HB 430 would require Pennsylvania's Department of Environmental Protection to prohibit wind turbine construction or installation if the turbines would negatively affect military installations within the state. The bill empowers the DEP to deny permits for wind energy projects deemed incompatible with military operations, radar systems, or training activities.

Why is this important

Wind energy development and military operations can have genuine conflicts—turbines can interfere with radar systems, communications, and low-altitude training flights. However, this bill creates a significant regulatory tension between Pennsylvania's renewable energy goals and military protection, potentially blocking projects in regions near bases. The practical impact depends heavily on how "negatively affect" is defined and enforced.

Potential points of contention

  • Vague definition of "negatively affect": The bill lacks specific criteria for what constitutes harm to military installations, giving the DEP broad discretionary power that could block projects or be challenged as arbitrary
  • Renewable energy conflict: Pennsylvania has established clean energy targets; this bill could substantially limit wind development in populated areas where military installations exist, reducing in-state renewable capacity
  • Federal vs. state authority: Military installations and airspace are primarily federal concerns; Pennsylvania imposing unilateral restrictions may conflict with federal defense priorities or create inconsistent policies across state lines

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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