Rural Midwest Communities Experience Economic Benefits from Wind and Solar Projects
A new study from the University of Missouri’s Center for Rural Energy Security indicates that rural areas in the Midwest are experiencing economic benefits from the development of wind and solar energy projects. The research, led by economist Adrienne Ohler, compared economic factors in counties with and without renewable power plants between 2001 and 2023. The findings show that counties hosting wind energy infrastructure saw an approximate 7% increase in gross domestic product (GDP). For solar energy development, the utilities, construction, and transportation sectors in rural counties experienced 10% to 20% increases in employment and wages. James Owen, executive director of Renew Missouri, noted that while these projects may not create many long-term jobs, communities benefit significantly from increased tax revenue, which can support local school, fire, and ambulance districts. Despite these benefits, some Midwestern and Great Plains states are seeing an increase in local ordinances regulating renewab...
