Healthy Economies & Healthy Communities
Powering Strong Economies and Vibrant Communities
Solar power offers many benefits for agricultural communities. In addition to significantly boosting the economic productivity of farmland, solar projects generate much-needed revenue for landowners, municipalities and counties – money that can help preserve family farms and pay for essential services like schools, roads and hospitals and enrich property values.
Over the course of its 35-year lifespan, the Twin Lakes Solar project will generate
$25+ million in total revenue for White County, composed of:
- $2 million in EDA payments to White County
- $25 million in property taxes to White County
It is estimated that building the Twin Lakes Solar project will create 250-300 local construction jobs, as well as bring several families to the local community via the necessary permanent operations jobs, once the facility is complete and for the duration of the Solar Farm.
Preserving Farmland for Future Generations
Solar energy facilities offer a sustainable way to increase the economic value and productivity of agricultural land by introducing a reliable, drought-resistant source of income that can help ensure family farms can be passed on to the next generation – revenue that often significantly exceeds what could be made from farming or leasing the land.
Unlike residential or commercial development which irreversibly alters the character of farmland, solar represents a new type of “crop” that can reduce erosion, enhance soil quality, create habitat for wildlife and pollinators, and conserve water resources. In many cases, farming can continue around the solar panels, and if the solar facility is no longer needed at the end of its operational life, the equipment can be easily removed, and the land returned to full agricultural use.
Contributing to a Healthy Environment
Renewable energy has an important role to play in helping to promote energy independence across the USA. Clean, reliable solar power contributes to a healthier local environment and economy for entire communities as well.
