"Wind power is an exciting industry that will be a cornerstone of our energy future," he said in a news release. "But it is important to make sure that this alternative-energy sector develops in a way that maintains the public's confidence."

Walter Q. Howard, president and chief-executive officer of Noble, said in a statement that his company "has always been fully committed to the ethical and transparent development of renewable resources and has supported the work of the attorney general and his staff in the development of the new Wind Industry Ethics Code.

"We are gratified that, going forward, there will be clear guidelines with respect to ethical behavior and conflict of interest," he said, "and we are committed to continuing to operate in conformity with the principles laid out in this code."

District Attorney Champagne said, "this common-sense approach will help ensure the promise of clean, renewable energy is not tainted by shady deals and improper relationships between wind-power companies and local government officials.

"I look forward to taking part in the new task force and applaud the attorney general for his leadership on this important issue."

Besides Champagne and a representative from the Attorney General's Office, the task-force members are: Wyoming County District Attorney Gerald Stout; Monroe County District Attorney Michael Green; Stephen Acquario, executive director of the state Association of Counties; G. Jeffrey Haber, executive director of the state Association of Towns; and Blair Horner, legislative director of the New York Public Interest Group.

Complaints about wind-development companies should be sent to the task force by e-mail at WindTaskForce@oag.state.ny.us.

Complaints about other industries or local officials should be made to the Attorney General's Office at 1 (800) 428-9072 or e-mail public.integrity@oag.state.ny.us.

draymo@pressrepublican.com