Governor Peter Shumlin has set up an independent commission to review the siting of electric power generating projects, including wind farms.
The commission will compare Vermont’s methods for approving projects to the process in other states, particularly around New England.
The commission’s creation comes amid growing concern about mountaintop wind projects.
It also will look at the role of public and municipal participation in Vermont’s approval process and the timing of issuing permits.
In addition, the commission will analyze whether the current process adequately protects the state’s lands, and environmental and cultural resources.
The commission is expected to provide a report to the governor and pertinent legislative committees by the end of April.