Northeast South Dakota has long been a place where hardworking families, farmers, and small business owners have worked together to build a better and brighter future. To keep communities filled with opportunities that drive a thriving community, we need to embrace opportunities that strengthen the economy, respect private property rights, and ensure the prosperity of future generations. Renewable energy, particularly wind energy, offers a practical path to achieving those goals.
Economic growth is the backbone of any strong community, and renewable energy – as part of the state’s “all-of-the-above” approach – is delivering real benefits across South Dakota. Renewable energy projects generate $39.1 million annually in property, state, and local taxes, creating vital revenue streams for counties. These funds help pave roads, keep schools competitive, and support small businesses. This kind of economic investment brings new revenues that could help offset local expenses, therefore paving the way to prevent increasing tax burdens on hardworking families.
For private landowners, renewable energy also represents a smart economic choice. Landowners who lease their property for wind or solar projects benefit from a reliable, drought-proof source of income. In tough times when crop yields aren’t enough, this additional income is what helps farmers not only stay afloat but compete on the international stage. Across South Dakota, these leases generate $24.3 million annually for landowners, providing a much-needed financial buffer. This additional revenue often stays in local communities, supporting small businesses and creating a ripple effect of economic growth. By respecting property rights and allowing landowners to determine the best use of their land, we reinforce the values that we hold dear.
Unfortunately, too often, we see local opposition groups push back on positive development, advocating for local policies that completely preclude revenue-generating projects, taking away the rights of landowners to harvest wind or other natural resources on their land, and stripping away potential for the economic development that accompanies such projects.
Northeast South Dakota stands to benefit from the jobs renewable energy projects would bring. From construction to ongoing operations, these developments create well-paying positions that support families and contribute to the local economy. As we see the energy demand increasing, Brown County and Day County can be part of the solution in delivering reliable, affordable energy – while also seeing the cash flow to benefit your roads, schools, and citizens.
Northeast South Dakota has an important choice to make. People can stick with the status quo, pushing away critical developments and limiting opportunities. Or they can embrace a smarter path that strengthens the economy, protects property rights, and ensures long-term prosperity for families and farmers. Supporting policies that enable responsible renewable energy development paves the way for a future that reflects South Dakotan values and keeps communities strong.
Waylon Brown is a lifelong farmer, small business owner, and former Iowa legislator. As Regional Policy Manager for Clean Grid Alliance, Waylon advocates for rural empowerment through renewable energy development.
