Frequently Asked
Questions

Wind Energy Basics

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. The turbine may be at rest while the wind is calm, however, utility-scale wind turbines are normally sited in areas of strong average wind resources. Wind farms are a stable supply of electricity, and they may also supplement 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. However, utility-scale wind turbines are rarely completely motionless at their heights—normally more than 200 feet above ground—and are located on sites chosen expressly for their strong wind resources. While the wind isn’t blowing 100% of the time, our fuel is always free and never affected by the market volatility and geopolitics that influence fossil fuels.

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

There are a number of reasons one or more turbines may not be spinning – this could be due to necessary wind speed, direction, regular servicing, planned curtailment for the grid or even seasonal wildlife activity. Additionally, when the electric grid is at capacity and cannot accept more power, some turbines are temporarily shut off, a process known as curtailment, to maintain overall system reliability.

Do you have wind seasons?

Yes, but it varies by area. Fall and winter are the most windy seasons in the Midwest and Great Plains. 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?

Wind turbines are designed to withstand very high wind speeds and extreme weather. In fact, wind projects are often located in tornado-prone areas, like Allen County, and maintain successful operations. When wind speeds surpass approximately 50 mph or gusts of 100 mph, the turbine pauses to reduce load and the likelihood of damage. In the rare event that extreme weather causes damage to a turbine, Vestas works with the project operator to continue smooth operations. Vestas is committed to safety and has setbacks in place from roads, homes, and other infrastructure to ensure the neighboring community is a safe distance from the project.

How frequently should turbines be serviced?

Wind turbines typically require one to two preventative maintenance inspections each year, depending on a variety of circumstances.

What impact do wind turbines have on power grids?

Wind turbine energy can be reliably integrated into the transmission system, causing no disruption to the grid and providing customers with clean, renewable energy. By adding new supply close to where energy is needed in the Southwest Power Pool, Rivercat Wind helps support lower regional electricity costs.

Is wind energy just the latest energy fad?

Not at all. 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. Rivercat Wind unlocks new opportunities for Allen County, providing a new, clean, and reliable energy source for Kansas businesses and residents alike, and adding resiliency to the regional energy system.

What exactly does a wind turbine’s 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 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.

Can crop dusting or aerial application occur near Rivercat Wind?

Crop duster pilots are highly trained in low-altitude flying and routinely navigate around obstacles such as power lines, irrigation systems, and weather, treating wind turbines as another visible feature of the landscape. Using GPS and precision techniques, they can safely adapt flight paths with minimal disruption to operations. Wind farms and aerial application have safely coexisted for decades in agricultural states like Texas and Oklahoma, demonstrating that farming and wind energy can successfully operate side by side. Check out this video and recent study.

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 put in place from roads, residences, and other structures.

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.

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. If damage does occur, Vestas will work with the project operator to assess the situation and make repairs as soon as possible.

Are there adverse health effects to wind turbines?

No. Wind farms are a safe and effective way of generating renewable energy. Dozens of peer-reviewed studies have found no direct causal link between properly sited wind turbines and negative physiological health effects.

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 hosting community events, meeting with local leaders, and hearing from 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! We are happy to have a conversation to see if your land is suitable for a wind project.

Do turbines require a lot of land?

A wind turbine and the associated access road take up around 1.5 acres of land. Only about 1% of the total leased land area will be used for turbines and equipment — the rest remains available for farming and other uses.

What are the benefits for landowners?

Wind energy allows landowners to secure additional, yearly income. The project is estimated to generate more than $1.5 million in annual landowner payments, supporting local farming families. A wind farm's revenue can assist a landowner in diversifying their business and maintaining long-term financial stability. Landowners receive predictable, long-term incomes that are not affected by commodity prices or weather. All agreements are directly negotiated between the wind project developer and the landowner.

What is the scope of a land agreement?

The land agreement allows wind developers to perform diligence activities to ensure we are siting our wind energy facilities in the best possible locations with minimal impact. We work with landowners to establish an agreement complimentary to your desired land-use. Once ready for construction, the agreement allows us to construct the project and maintain the facilities throughout the lifetime of the project. Finally, the land agreement guarantees the project will be decommissioned responsibly and the land will be restored its pre-construction condition.

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.

Do wind projects create construction traffic?

Yes, but only temporarily. There will be more traffic in the area during construction. Rivercat Wind is expected to take approximately one year to complete, and the use of heavy equipment will be limited to that period. There will be no need for additional construction traffic once the wind farm is operational.

How long does construction take?

Rivercat Wind is targeted to begin construction in 2029. The construction timeline is dependent on the project's size, location, and a variety of external factors. Six to nine months is a standard timeframe for constructing most wind energy projects.

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. Rivercat Wind preserves more than 16,000 acres of family land for continued farming use while generating additional revenue for participating landowners.

What benefits will Rivercat Wind bring to Allen County?

Rivercat Wind will bring short- and long-term economic opportunities to Allen County. The project is expected to generate local property tax revenue, more than $60 million over its 30-year life, providing long-term funding for schools, hospitals, and essential services. Projects also increase local spending, boosting hotels, restaurants, and service providers. Rivercat Wind will partner with local businesses and suppliers and create numerous jobs during project construction and operations.

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.

Is wind energy subsidized by the government?

All energy producers in the United States — whether fossil fuel or renewable — have received some level of support from both federal and state governments to stimulate investment and keep up with America's fast-growing power needs. Those investments in renewable energy have a planned end date, however the resources wil continue to expand.

Will a wind farm negatively impact my property values?

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.

Environment

Do wind turbines affect local wildlife?

Steelhead will conduct environmental studies for responsible siting of Rivercat Wind 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 always to protect valuable natural resources and minimize the environmental impact of wind turbines as much as possible.

Will a wind farm pollute the environment?