Vibrant Communities and Strong Economies
Economic Benefits
Over their lifetimes, the Empire Prairie Wind and Solar Projects will bring significant economic benefits to Gentry, DeKalb, and Andrew Counties and area school districts by providing millions of dollars in new tax revenue.
Employment Opportunities
The Empire Prairie Wind and Solar Projects will generate hundreds of employment opportunities throughout the construction phases. Once operational, the projects will provide a number of new, permanent, good-paying jobs and support the creation of additional jobs within the community by boosting the local economic landscape.
Agricultural Compatibility
The projects will preserve the underlying agricultural potential of Gentry, DeKalb, and Andrew County land without degrading soil quality. When the projects are decommissioned, the land will remain primed for future farming. In the meantime, the projects will offer landowners a steady, diversified source of income, bolstering their economic stability and helping local farmers keep land in their families for generations to come.
Environmentally Friendly
Solar and wind energy systems have minimal environmental impact and even create opportunities for soil and habitat restoration. Land alteration is kept to a minimum, ensuring that grading and soil compaction are reduced and topsoil is conserved. All of the technologies used in the Empire Prairie Wind and Solar Projects will operate without emitting pollutants into the air, releasing unpleasant odors, polluting the water, or generating disruptive noise.
