Legislation to develop areas of Lake Erie for wind generation, allowing the region to reap the economic benefits of this clean, renewable energy source has been introduced.

H.B. 254 would establish the Lake Erie Wind Energy Development Act.

It would create a competitive process and award a permit lease to develop certain areas of the lakebed for wind energy generation.

Additionally, H.B. 254 would establish a 2% royalty on gross revenue going to government entities for lake and county related projects.

The bill is in the House Environmental Resources & Energy Committee.

The bill was introduced by State Rep. Bob Merski.