Solar and wind energy development on rangeland is everywhere. They accounted for a whopping 40% and 18% of new electricity generation capacity in the United States in 2019, respectively. Inevitably, these projects often lead to habitat fragmentation, soil disturbance, and changes in hydrology, which can negatively impact native vegetation and wildlife species reliant on these landscapes. However, few ecological studies exist documenting plant community impacts, soil health dynamics, and wildlife habitat alterations, however, some studies conducted on wind and solar development have shown that proximity to wind farms can often reduce overall property values. This reduction is more significant when the wind turbines are visible from the property. The visual impact of wind turbines is a major factor in overall property value depreciation. Research suggests that the visibility radius for wind turbines can extend up to 8.7 miles.
Key Findings:
- Distance Matters: The closer a property is to a wind farm, the greater the potential for a value decrease.
- Visibility is Crucial: Properties with direct views of wind turbines experience more significant value reductions.
- Turbine Size and Number: The number and size of turbines can also influence the impact on property values.
What Does this Mean for Homeowners and Investors?
If you’re considering buying or selling a property in an area with wind turbines, it’s important to be aware of their potential impact on value. Factors like distance from the turbines and visibility should be carefully considered.
Looking Ahead
As wind energy continues to expand, understanding its impact on property values is crucial. Further research is needed to refine our understanding of this complex issue and develop strategies to mitigate potential negative impacts.
For more information on these two studies, be sure to read Values in the Wind A Hedonic Analysis of Wind Power Facilities and Gone with the wind valuing the visual impacts of wind turbines through house prices