The Economic Impact of Renewable Energy Development on Rural Communities

The shift towards renewable energy has created significant opportunities for rural communities. Solar, wind and battery storage not only contribute to the global energy transition, but also bring substantial economic benefits to the regions where they’re developed. Distributed energy projects in particular have potential to de-centralize power production, improving grid resilience while extending an economic opportunity to a more diverse and dispersed group of landowners than traditional, large scale conventional power plants.  

Economic benefits range from job creation during development and construction to an improved business environment due to availability of affordable and reliable power supply. Other benefits include more efficient land use, allowing landowners to extract value from portions of their properties that are not ideal for agriculture. By leasing land to developers, landowners can generate consistent income that counteracts fluctuations in farm income, while supporting the renewable energy transition.

The most immediate and noticeable impacts of energy development in rural areas is job creation. Solar and wind energy projects require a workforce for construction, maintenance, and operations. During the construction phase, hundreds of jobs are created, providing local employment opportunities. Solar projects in particular require many unskilled workers, offering an opportunity to people who have not yet been trained in the energy sector. Even after the project is complete, long-term operational and maintenance positions are needed, offering stable employment in communities that may otherwise have limited job prospects. Community folks involved in construction gain important skills and experiences which may help them secure further energy opportunities elsewhere after the project is completed.

Energy projects often have a ripple effect on the local economy. During the construction phase, developers and workers need services like lodging, food, equipment, and supplies, which creates a surge in business for local shops, restaurants, and service providers. This influx of business supports local entrepreneurs and keeps money circulating within the community, helping to sustain rural economies. In the construction of these projects, roads are improved, internet connection is enhanced and power supply extended to communities.

Other indirect benefits to communities include increased local tax revenues to governments. These funds can be used to support schools, improve infrastructure, and enhance public services in jurisdictions where the projects are established. Wind and solar farms often provide a new source of revenue for rural counties, helping to offset budget shortfalls and reduce the burden on local taxpayers. In some cases, energy developers also set up community funds that directly benefit local initiatives, such as scholarships, community centers, and emergency services.

For rural landowners, leasing land to energy developers can be a game changer. Solar and wind leases provide a reliable income stream that is often higher and more stable than traditional farming or ranching. The lease payments typically last for decades, ensuring consistent earnings regardless of crop yields or market fluctuations. In addition, these projects allow landowners to continue using their land for other purposes, such as grazing livestock, making it a win-win scenario.

While the economic benefits of energy development are clear, it’s natural for rural communities and landowners to have concerns about the potential environmental and land-use impacts. However, modern solar and wind projects are increasingly designed with environmental stewardship in mind. For example, agrivoltaics allows solar panels to coexist with crops or grazing animals, ensuring that land continues to be productive even as it generates clean energy. Additionally, renewable energy is inherently low-impact, producing no emissions and requiring minimal water use compared to traditional energy sources.

How Landowners Can Get Involved?

For landowners, the opportunity to lease land for renewable energy projects has never been better. As demand for clean energy grows, developers are actively seeking land in rural areas that offer the right conditions for solar and wind farms. By partnering with Telkes, you can connect with developers who are ready to invest in your land. Telkes simplifies the process, helping you list your property for free and explore potential leasing opportunities without the hassle. For more information, please visit Telkes and get a free land listing

Why Partner with Telkes?

At Telkes, we specialize in connecting landowners with renewable energy developers looking for prime locations. Whether you’re interested in exploring a solar lease, a wind energy project, or a combination of both, our platform offers you a seamless way to list your land, receive offers, and secure a fair, profitable deal. With Telkes, you have control over your property while unlocking new revenue streams that can support your financial goals and contribute to the clean energy transition.

List your land today for free and learn how you can play a key role in the future of clean energy while securing a profitable lease for your land.