LETTER: Wind power has major benefits

To the Editor:

We at Emerging Energies of Wisconsin were pleased that the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin recently decided to take some extra time — six months — and more thoroughly study our proposed Highland Wind Farm project and the benefits we know it will bring the people of St. Croix County.

In both Wisconsin and across the country wind power projects help boost local economies, increase land values, and support a healthy environment by reducing carbon emissions in our air.

According to the American Wind Energy Association figures, in Wisconsin, the economic and environmental benefits provided by wind power have been remarkable. As of 2011, up to 3,000 total construction and manufacturing jobs were supported by wind.

Additionally, millions of dollars are being invested as a result of wind power projects. Over $1.2 million in property tax payments have been made to the state by wind project owners and almost $1.9 million in annual land lease payments have been made to farmers and other landowners where wind power projects have been built.

In terms of our health, current existing wind energy installed avoids 800,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually in the state. This means cleaner air and less pollution for all of Wisconsin citizens.

While we appreciate the viewpoints of others, when you add up all the benefits to the state, it’s easy to understand why a large number of Wisconsin citizens support wind power.

Jay Mundinger

Founding principal

Highland Wind Farm

Tags: letters to the editor, opinion