Cuomo's Office Investigating Wind Farms - WGRZ-TV

Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo is launching an investigation into two companies that have developed and operate wind farms across New York state, including Western New York.

The Attorney General's office says subpoenas were served on First Wind (formerly known as UPC Wind) and Noble Environment Power, LLC.

According to First Wind's website, the company developed the Steel Winds wind farm in Lackawanna and has wind farms in development in Steuben, Chautauqua, Genesee and Wyoming (GenWY Wind) counties. The Attorney General's office says Noble Environmental Power, LLC, has three active wind farms and five in development in Allegany, Chautauqua, Clinton, Franklin and Wyoming Counties.

According to Cuomo's office, both First Wind and Noble Environmental Power are part of an investigation into whether companies developing wind farms improperly sought or obtained land-use agreements with citizens and public officials, whether improper benefits were given to public officials to influence their actions, and whether they entered into anti-competitive agreements or practices. The Attorney General's subpoenas seek:

All documents concerning any benefits conferred on any individual or entity in connection with wind farm activity.

All agreements, easements or contracts with individuals regarding placement of wind turbines.

Agreements between wind companies that may indicate anti-competitive practices.

All documents pertaining to any payments or benefits received from local, state or federal agencies.

The Attorney General's office says it has received numerous complaints regarding the two companies from citizens, groups and public officials alleging improper relations and practices.

Noble Enviornmental Power released this statement from CEO Walt Howard:

"Noble has received a civil subpoena from the Attorney General of New York State regarding wind development activities in New York. The company is in the process of reviewing the subpoena and will cooperate fully with the Attorney General. We are confident the Attorney General's inquiry will find that Noble's actions have been legal and proper and we look forward to his review."