A debate over a potential 20-megawatt wind farm in Antrim, New Hampshire, could ultimately be decided by the state after approximately 100 local residents petitioned the New Hampshire Site Evaluation Committee over the project.

The Concord Monitor reports that the committee will decide whether or not it has jurisdiction over the project, with the decision expected to come prior to the end of the month.

"The petitioners have generally asserted that the town planning board is not capable of properly regulating the site and construction and operation of an energy facility of this size, and that the processes in the town just aren't there," Michael Iacopino, a lawyer for the committee, explained.

The wind farm project, which would cost an estimated $45 million, could feature 10 turbines that are approximately 420 feet tall and could decrease dependence on coal and oil, proponents said.

If approved, the project would reportedly take about six months to construct, according to the news source.

The Associated Press reports that the debate has heated up recently, with members of the planning board opposing local selectmen.