Why did John Deere get involved in wind energy?
Investments in wind energy benefit rural economies where John Deere customers live. These projects provide an additional source of economic growth for landowners, ranchers and other ag-related businesses.
John Deere Wind Energy enables agricultural interests to benefit from the production of renewable energy. Our business model channels the substantial benefit of renewable investments back to rural communities, landowners, developers, ranchers and farmers.
Wind energy has the ability to help rural America capitalize on its investment in real estate while also contributing to clean air. Importantly, John Deere believes this industry can produce favorable returns for its shareholders and could become a significant source of growth for the financial service business in the long term.
How involved is John Deere in the wind energy business?
John Deere currently has investments in wind energy projects in several states across the country. John Deere Wind Energy continues to consider investments in projects in other locations, both domestic and international. The current portfolio includes projects capable of producing more than 50 megawatts of electricity.
Does John Deere manufacture or service wind turbines?
John Deere has no immediate plans to manufacture or service wind turbines. John Deere doesn’t distribute wind turbines of any size directly, or through its independent dealers.
How does a farmer/landowner benefit?
For landowners who are challenged with making farmland more productive, or who seek supplemental revenue from their real estate investment, John Deere Wind Energy can help.
John Deere Wind Energy can provide the opportunity for long-term, low-risk steady income through joint development of commercial wind energy projects or through leasing land for project sites.
John Deere Wind Energy makes it easy for landowners to profit from renewable energy with minimal investment. This can improve the quality and productivity of their land by generating predictable income in rural communities today, and for future generations.
Are all locations suitable for wind energy projects?
No. Not all locations provide an economically feasible opportunity to produce wind energy. Local permitting, interconnection and utility relationships all come into play. Furthermore, the worldwide demand for wind turbine generators currently exceeds the supply.
Developing a wind energy business requires a significant commitment of time, knowledge and resources, and as a result, some projects may not be feasible.
How do wind energy project developers benefit from working with John Deere Wind Energy?
For wind energy developers who need a flexible, trusted project resource for the long term, John Deere Wind Energy provides advice, debt and equity investment, and the foundation for a successful project through the following:
- Long-term, comprehensive project management services, including a streamlined project approval process and technical support from planning to engineering to construction
- Specialized expertise in agriculture, financial services and wind energy technology
- Knowledge and commitment to rural economic growth
- Unparalleled reputation for financial strength, integrity and stability
How do energy companies benefit from purchasing power from a wind energy project?
Rural Electric cooperatives, municipal utilities and investor-owned utilities can all benefit from including wind energy in their generation mix. Especially those energy purchasers who want to establish a reliable, long-term source for clean, renewable energy without capital investment.
John Deere Wind Energy provides the expertise to create and maintain a commercial wind project that will serve their renewable energy demand.
How do communities benefit from a John Deere Wind Energy project?
Rural development can create jobs and additional revenue sources, benefiting all communities involved. John Deere is committed to rural development by providing the knowledge and resources necessary to make sustainable, renewable energy plans a reality.
For rural communities that are interested in long-term commercial development opportunities, John Deere Wind Energy can help.
How long does it take to complete a wind energy project?
Projects can take between one to three years to complete, depending on permitting, wind assessment, power sale and interconnection agreements. Once the construction phase of the project commences, the project is usually completed within six months.
What is the relationship between John Deere Wind Energy and other John Deere businesses?
Through its Worldwide Agricultural Equipment division, John Deere has built strong relationships with several generations of customers, many of which are closely connected to the land.
John Deere has been a valuable resource for these customers by providing equipment, financing and other agribusiness solutions. John Deere Wind Energy will further strengthen this relationship by offering debt and equity financing for wind energy projects.
