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, enabling agricultural interests to benefit from the production of renewable energy.
Wind energy has the ability to help rural communities capitalize on investments while also contributing to clean renewable energy production. Importantly, John Deere believes this industry can produce favorable returns for its shareholders and could become a significant source of growth for the company in the long term.
How involved is John Deere in the wind energy business?
John Deere 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. The current portfolio includes projects capable of producing more than 600 megawatts of electricity — enough to power over 40,000 homes.
Currently, John Deere Wind Energy is interested in investments that involve commercial scale wind projects. This generally includes projects that range in size between 10-100 megawatts. John Deere Wind Energy works closely with developers and landowners to evaluate potential projects.
Does John Deere manufacture or service wind turbines?
John Deere does not currently manufacture or provide the primary service for wind turbines. John Deere doesn’t distribute wind turbines through its independent dealers. John Deere Wind Energy uses its resources to establish wind turbine supply relationships with reputable, high-quality manufacturers and leverages its technical experience to work with those who service our wind farms.
How much land will I need for a wind farm?
Approximately one acre is needed for each turbine base and foot print which includes an access road. Each turbine generally needs 50 acres of air space to avoid interference with the air flow of other turbines; however, the land can be farmed right up to the base of the turbine. The amount of land utilized overall generally depends upon the terrain, turbine size and wind regime.
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.
How long does it take to complete a wind energy project?
Projects can take between one to four 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 nine to twelve months.
What is the relationship between John Deere Wind Energy and other John Deere businesses?
John Deere has built strong relationships with several generations of customers, many of which are closely connected to the land. Serving as a valuable resource for these customers, John Deere has provided equipment, financing and other agribusiness solutions.
John Deere Wind Energy, a business unit of John Deere Renewables, LLC will further strengthen this relationship by offering project development and investments for wind energy projects.
