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legislative affairs
What Can Wind Power Do For You?
Spurring Economic Development
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For every megawatt (MW) of wind energy produced, $1 million in economic development is generated. This includes revenue from planning, construction, etc.
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Wind energy revitalizes rural communities by providing steady income through lease and royalty payments to farmers and other landowners.
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Supplemental income: It is estimated that the income to a landowner from a single utility-scale turbine is approximately $2000 per year. For a 250-acre farm with income from wind at $55 per acre, this translates into an annual income from wind leases of $14,000, with no more than 2-3 acres removed from production.
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Jobs: Wind energy resources bring needed jobs to rural communities and bolster farm incomes against bad weather. Worldwide, wind and solar industries are likely to be one of the main sources of new manufacturing jobs in the 21st century.
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Consumer Benefits: Wind energy costs for consumers are low and stable. This is particularly beneficial for those on fixed incomes.
As wind energy production becomes more efficient, costs will decline, while fossil fuel prices are expected to rise.
Environmental and Health Benefits
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A widespread, inexhaustible resource: 46 of 50 states have wind resources that could be developed.
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Low emissions: Reduces smog and eliminates a major source of acid rain; could reduce total US emissions of carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) by 1/3 and world emissions by 4%.
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Potential for growth: Development of just 10% of 10 of the windiest states could provide more than enough energy to displace emissions from coal-fired power plants.
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Cleaner air means healthier air, especially for people with respiratory disabilities.
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