Agriculture
Nebraska Farmer Earns $10,000‑$12,500 Annually Leasing One Acre for Wind Turbine
A Nebraska farmer is earning an additional $10,000 to $12,500 a year by leasing one acre of his 160‑acre farm for a wind turbine, according to a July 2021 NRECA case study. The turbine and its equipment occupy about one acre, leaving the farmer free to use the remaining 159 acres for agriculture. Bluestem Energy Solutions installed the turbine in 2019 and sells the electricity to Cuming County Public Power District (CCPPD). The lease lasts 30 years, with payments that start lower and increase each year. CCPPD’s general manager, Chet McWhorter, noted that even top‑dollar corn would bring only about $600 per acre, making the lease financially attractive for the farmer. The project, costing roughly $4.5 million, was funded by Bluestem, while CCPPD agreed to purchase the electricity for 30 years. The General Electric turbine can produce up to 2.5 MW, standing on an 89‑metre tower that reaches about 152 metres. It is expected to generate around 10,950 MWh annually, enough to supply more than 900 homes. In 2020 the turbine recorded a capacity factor of 56.17%. The project has helped CCPPD reduce annual electricity costs by 3% to 4% and is projected to contribute over $1 million to the local economy during its life, including $11,000 in additional property taxes each year, 60% of which goes to public schools. The turbine also supports local businesses through maintenance visits and provides a fixed electricity price for the district.