Frequently Asked
Questions

Wind Energy Basics

Why do some wind turbines spin while others nearby do not?

This is a standard aspect of a wind farm’s functioning. Wind direction, speed, and strength are constantly changing, thus causing some turbines to rotate while others around remain idle. Wind turbines that are being serviced will also remain idle.

Is wind energy dependable?

Wind developers can anticipate “when” and “how much” wind energy is available with a high degree of confidence using sophisticated monitoring and wind resource analysis tools, allowing it to be reliably integrated into the electric grid. Wind farms are a stable supply of electricity when the wind blows, and they may also supplant fossil-fueled power such as oil and gas.

What happens if the wind stops blowing?

The turbine may be at rest while the wind is calm. Utility-scale wind turbines, on the other hand, are rarely completely motionless at their heights – normally more than 200 feet above ground – on a site chosen expressly for its strong wind resources.

Do you have wind seasons?

Yes, but it varies by area. Summer is the most windy season in California; fall and winter are the most windy seasons in the Midwest; and spring is the most windy season in Texas. Daily and seasonal fluctuations are unique to each wind farm. Each wind location has its own unique wind patterns, which are identified during the project’s early stages through wind studies.

Do wind turbines work in extreme weather conditions?

Turbines located in places subject to extreme cold or heat are outfitted with arctic or tropical equipment. Nonetheless, for safety, turbines shut down automatically under persistent winds of 56 mph or gusts of around 100 mph.

How frequently should turbines be serviced?

Wind turbines typically require one to two preventative maintenance inspections each year, depending on a variety of circumstances. When a problem arises, we work with the manufacturer to determine the root cause of the problem and then, if needed, replace any faulty equipment.

What exactly does a wind systems computer system do?

Before the startup instruction is delivered, the sophisticated computer system within a turbine runs extensive self-diagnostic checks and troubleshoots issues. The turbine shuts down immediately if the computer identifies any faults it can’t fix.

Is wind energy just the latest energy fad?

Nope! In fact, the wind industry has grown rapidly and is now the largest source of renewable energy in the United States. Today, technology allows wind projects to expand to new regions with lower wind speeds. Harvest Hills Wind Project creates new opportunities for Whitman County. It will provide a new, clean, and reliable energy source for Iowa businesses and residents alike, serving as the affordable utility for everyone’s growing power needs. The wind farm is designed to integrate with existing ranches and farms and will be connected to the power grid, adding resiliency to the Washington energy system.

Is a power purchase agreement required before building begins?

Prior to construction, we usually negotiate long-term contracts from one or more buyers for the output of a wind farm.

What impact do wind turbines have on the power grid?

Wind turbine energy can be reliably integrated into the transmission system, causing no disruption to the grid and providing customers with clean, renewable energy as a source of power.

Safety

Are wind turbines safe?

Wind energy is one of the safest forms of electricity, with various built-in safety precautions to protect not just the turbines, but also the landowners and communities around them. Setbacks are also put in place from roads, residences, and other structures.

What impact does lightning have on the operation of wind turbines?

Most lightning strikes do not affect the operations of a wind turbine due to the protection provided by a lightning protection system. The lightning protection system is designed to reduce the risk of lightning damage, however, if damage occurs from lightning, Vestas will work with the project operator to access any damage and make repairs as soon as possible.

Are wind turbines noisy?

It’s important to remember turbines only run when the wind is blowing, meaning as ground level winds increase in speed, the sound of the wind masks most of the turbine sound. Typically, while standing directly below a running wind turbine, two people are able to have a conversation at normal voice levels.

Is wind energy subsidized by the government?

Yes, all energy producers in the United States – whether fossil fuel or renewable – receive some level of support from both federal and state governments to stimulate investment and keep up with America’s fast-growing power needs.

Will a wind farm negatively affect my property value?

Dozens of peer-reviewed academic studies have found wind farms have no significant long-term impacts on property values. View our property values information to learn more.

Are there adverse health effects to wind turbines?

No. Wind farms are a safe and effective way of generating renewable energy. Visit our health information to learn more.

Landowners & Communities

How involved should communities be in the development of a wind energy project?

Very! For any project to be successful, we know the needs of the community must come first. We’re determined to listen to all perspectives, and we believe strongly in fostering long-term relationships with the people we serve, including but not limited to hosting community events, meeting with government officials and hearing from local economic development and environmental groups.

What do you look for in a site when building a renewable energy project?

Wind farm locations are determined by a variety of factors, including the abundance of wind resources, the ability to transfer wind energy, market demand and land use compatibility with wind farms. We generally look for locations with interested landowner partners as well.

Can I have you assess my property to see if it’s suitable for a wind energy project?

Please reach out! While we cannot promise to lease all land presented to us, it is always worth having a conversation.

Do turbines require a lot of land?

A wind turbine and the associated access road take up around 1.5 acres of land.

Do wind turbines create construction traffic?

Yes, but only temporarily. There will be more traffic in the area during construction. Harvest Hills will take a year or less to complete, however, the use of heavy equipment will be limited to that time period. There will be no need for additional construction traffic once the wind farm is operational.

How long does construction take?

The construction timeline of any wind farm is dependent on its size, location and a variety of external factors. With that being said, six to nine months is a standard timeframe for constructing most wind energy projects.

What are the benefits for landowners?

Wind energy allows landowners to secure additional, yearly income. A landowner can make more money per acre by hosting a wind turbine than by growing crops or raising livestock. A wind farm’s revenue can assist a landowner in diversifying their business. Landowners receive predictable, long-term incomes unaffected by commodity prices or weather. The conditions of a land agreement vary depending on a number of factors. Individual landowner income thus varies case-by-case, but as a matter of preserving landowner privacy and confidentiality, we do not provide public examples of landowner revenues. All agreements are directly negotiated between the wind project developer and the landowner.

What is the scope of a land agreement?

Payment terms, diligence activities, and construction, operational and decommissioning practices will all be included in the land agreement.

Is it possible for me to enter into a land rights agreement with another company if I already have one with you?

As long as other agreements do not interfere with the wind turbine equipment or operation, landowners are free to use their property as they best see fit. Our wind turbines are all that is covered by our option and easement.

Is it possible for me to have hunting leases after I sign?

Hunting leases are still available to landowners who host wind turbines.

If I have wind energy equipment on my property, who pays the taxes

The wind project developer will pay the taxes on equipment and infrastructure.

Economics

What role does wind energy play in agriculture?

Wind energy can supplement agricultural activities, providing farmers and entire communities with a new source of stable income.

What benefits will Harvest Hills Wind bring to Whitman County?

Harvest Hills Wind will bring short- and long-term economic opportunities to Whitman County. The wind farm will pay tens of millions of dollars in tax payments throughout the projected 30-year life of the project, providing long-term funding for schools, hospitals, and more. Projects also increase local spending which boosts hotels, restaurants, and service providers in the area. Harvest Hills Wind will partner with local business and suppliers and create numerous jobs during project construction and operations.

Environment

Do wind turbines affect local wildlife?

Steelhead will conduct environmental studies for responsible siting of Harvest Hill Wind Project to minimize impact on local wildlife. Wind energy is significantly less harmful to wildlife and natural resources than traditional energy sources.

Is an environmental assessment carried out?

Yes. Every project undergoes a thorough and careful environmental assessment. The goal is to always protect valuable natural resources and to minimize the environmental impact of wind turbines as much as possible.

Will a wind farm pollute the environment?