PALMYRA - NextEra Energy Resources is taking the next steps toward establishing the Panama Wind Farm in Lancaster and Otoe counties with a presentation at the county fairgrounds in Syracuse Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Matthew Jones, NextEra Energy Resources project developer for Nebraska, said the company is committed to about 38 wind turbines in the project.

Jones: “We’re absolutely committed. I think that  -- given the opportunity to share the facts about the project and help the community better understand what is being proposed – people will be as excited as we are to see this project move forward.”

He said Nebraska’s public power companies recognize  wind and solar energy’s role in providing Nebraska households with low-cost energy.

Jones: “Wind energy is something that has been a big part of Nebraska’s history. Since 1998, there has been wind development in this state. It’s been a big part of the portfolio that public power has put together.”

 

The Otoe County Board has ordered a one-year moratorium on applications for new wind turbine permits, but Jones says the company is continuing to reach out to landowners for turbine leases and looks forward to working with the county for development of a suitable timeline.

 

He said wind farms provide a new tax source for schools and a revenue source  that adds to the viability of many family farms.

Jones: “We’ve seen a lot of opportunities where farmers have been able to pull their sons or daughters back to the farm, having this generation of income stream that’s there, that they can depend on. As we see commodity prices rise and fall, it gives them a reliable stream of income. It gives the schools, the local community, the opportunity to raise new tax revenue it also brings in new tax revenue for the schools.”

Jones said he understands there is opposition to the wind farm, but he is hopeful today’s presentation will ease concerns.

Jones: “I think the benefits of wind energy and renewable energy speak for themselves and I think the more people know about how NextEra operates in the communities that we are in in Nebraska  and otherwise, I think they will understand why we feel so confident and optimistic about the work that we do in Nebraska and through the country.”