As Turbine Technology Steps Up, New Obstacles to Development Arise in Ala.

The slower, intermittent winds were the barrier to developing wind farms in the Southeast.

Now it may be heavy regulation and lawsuits.

Industry and federal government officials say advances in turbine technology could transform wind development in the Southeast, adding another renewable fuel option to an area once dominated by coal.  But as outside developers are eyeing places to build taller towers and longer blades, emerging lawsuits and legislation could drive them away.

As Turbine Technology Steps Up, New Obstacles to Development Arise in Ala.