Renewable Energy: Wind Power's Contribution to Electric Power Generation And Impact on Farms And Rural Communities

Wind power (WP) provides electricity without polluting the air or depleting nonrenewable resources. WP relies on steady winds to turn the blades of power-generating turbines. Because these turbines generally are located on rural lands, WP could also provide econ. benefits to farmers & rural communities. The 2002 farm bill created a renewable energy program & auth. $115 million for the USDA to provide assist. for renewable energy projects, incl. WP. This report examines: (1) the amount of elec. generated by U.S. WP & prospects for its growth; (2) the contribution of WP to farmers' income & rural communities; (3) the advantages & disad. for farmers of owning a WP project vs. leasing land for a project; & (4) USDA's efforts to promote WP in rural communities.James R. Jones is the author of 'Renewable Energy: Wind Power's Contribution to Electric Power Generation And Impact on Farms And Rural Communities', published 2004 under ISBN 9780756745783 and ISBN 0756745780.