Renewable energy has provided several benefits for rural communities and counties across Nebraska. In addition to producing clean, low-cost renewable energy, these projects create new employment opportunities during the construction and operation periods. Additionally, renewable generation has provided new sources of income in the form of land-lease payments to farm and ranch families that host systems.
One of the furthest reaching benefits of renewable energy development for many rural communities, however, is the new tax revenue generated by nearby renewables. This revenue can support essential services and infrastructure in rural counties, including local schools, roads, and emergency services.
While taxes are levied on real property associated with renewable energy systems, much of the revenue generated from these projects stems from the state’s nameplate capacity tax.
