Bill > LD1852

This bill requires tax assessors to reduce the valuation of improved real property that is adjacent to solar or grid-scale wind energy developments when determining the property's value. Specifically, when assessing a property's location as part of its valuation process, assessors must now account for the potential negative impact of nearby clean energy installations by lowering the property's assessed value. The bill provides clear definitions for these energy developments: "solar energy development" refers to ground-mounted solar arrays that generate electricity for sale, and "grid-scale wind energy development" means wind turbines that generate electricity for sale, including their associated facilities. This legislation aims to address potential property value concerns for landowners near renewable energy projects by ensuring that the proximity to such developments is factored into property tax assessments in a way that recognizes potential economic impacts. The bill will apply to property tax years beginning on or after April 1, 2026, giving local assessors time to prepare for and implement these new valuation guidelines.

Budget and Finance

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1852&snum=132