PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – An unexpected issue with wind power development is coming up with a plan to dispose of old wind blades. As technology improves, wind developers are replacing blades with new, more efficient designs.

South Dakota Public Utilities Commission Chairman Gary Hanson says they anticipated a much longer life for the projects and blades.

Hanson says the bonds set up when a project is licensed should cover those disposal costs.

There are only a few landfills in the region that will accept the blades, which can be up to 200 feet in length.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download